It's easy to miss the point

Sometimes we don't see the wood for the trees. We do something for one reason, only later discovering the real reason, or the true value of the experience. Why do people attend courses or seminars? Mostly to improve one's ability in a particular area and increase success ratios. A bit disturbing when first day back one is expected to have made the transition from layman to expert in 48 hours. Proof, of course when you mess up, that the training was a load of bunk anyway!

Undergoing any kind of "training" is a bit like learning to drive a car. We get better gradually, not immediately - and only if we actually do something with what we've learnt. The purpose is to absorb theory supported by role plays, case studies and other practical means internalising the foundation for change and improvement. The transformation should and does take time. That's when it sticks better.

Each person internalises learning at their own rate. And everyone's pace is different. I was told recently of a company that has always believed in a 100% pass rate. The philosophy is that if the candidate is earmarked for training, he is supported until the skill is learned no matter how long it takes. A bit like setting people up for success, rather than failure. There are only two reasons why people don't perform. Either they won't, or they can't. If they won't it's a disciplinary issue. If they can't, enable them, at their pace. If they still can't, help them to find what they can do - help them to be winners.

Here are six guidelines to ensure that your learning experiences, and those of your subordinates prove to be worthwhile investments of your time and [someone's] money: Always:-

1. Enter a learning situation with a clear personal objective in mind
2. Have a highlighter, pen pencil, and notebook with you at seminars and on training courses
3. Review the material covered within 10 days of completing the course/seminar and then at specified intervals thereafter
4. Try and implement one new skill or sub-skill per week
5. Search for evidence and read up on information that supports the material that you covered and are implementing
6. Keep it alive - speak to people who shared the experience with you about what you are all doing to implement new skills

In essence, knowledge is power when it is in the hands of someone committed to taking action.