Photo by: Tumisu from Pixabay
If you conduct group training to outside organizations like we do here at Langevin, how has that changed since the beginning of the pandemic? Are you still required to conduct in-person training at your client’s preferred site? Ultimately, the first thought is “How do I keep my clients and myself safe?” This is a whole new world for us and, unfortunately, COVID-19 has tied our hands with several things we’d normally do in our training environment.
So, how do you navigate this new training world when conducting group training for outside clients?
The best place to start is to identify whether the training can be done virtually.
If yes, convert your traditional instructor-led training (ILT) to a virtual classroom (VC) course. You can then conduct the training live online without compromising the performance-based results of the ILT version. Not sure where to start with the conversion process? In our workshop, From Traditional to Virtual Classroom, you’ll learn how to determine the suitability for conversion, audit the ILT content, adapt existing methods to the VC, and select the most powerful tools to make the content interactive and engaging in a virtual environment.
If no, start discussions in advance regarding the in-person ILT. During the conversation, make sure to put your client at ease by sharing the safety protocols you have in place. You should also let the client know you are willing to include additional safety measures if requested. Your goal is to ensure they feel as comfortable as possible.
Here are ten best practices to consider when planning and conducting in-person group training with safety protocols:
- Identify the location of the training. Will it be indoors in a conference room? Is it possible to conduct the training outside, weather permitting? Perhaps there’s access to an open-air pavilion? Think outside the box!
2. Arrive early so you can arrange the tables. Participants need to be at least 6 feet apart but still be able to have group discussions and partner activities. Use large round tables with three or four people, or long rectangle tables with one person at each end.
3. Limit person-to-person contact through alternative greetings and workshop activities.
4. Eliminate the use of shared supplies and table toys.
5. Provide individual hand sanitizers, tissue boxes, masks, and markers (for use on the flip chart/whiteboard).
6. Urge everyone to be vigilant with frequent hand washing.
7. Work with the facility to ensure frequent disinfecting of equipment, supplies, and high touch surfaces (e.g. tables, chairs, door handles, light switches, etc.).
8. Offer individually wrapped snacks, pastries, etc. and water bottles if refreshments are necessary.
9. Speak clearly, and at a slightly slower pace and louder volume than normal, when wearing a mask. Our learners are no longer able to read our lips so it is crucial that we use effective vocal skills. Additionally, invest in a mask bracket to use under your mask. This will allow more space in your mask which can help you speak more clearly.
10. Use non-verbal communication as well. This is a critical skill. Even though your learners cannot see your smile under your mask, smile when speaking—they can see the smile through your eyes! Use gestures to emphasize key points. Adjust your posture and stand tall. Avoid slouching as it creates restrictions in your vocal cords which can affect your speaking volume.
Current times require modifications to our standard in-person workshop practices. When you implement the best practices above, you and your client will feel a comfort of safety.
What other safety measures have you put in place? We can all benefit from sharing our personal experiences and ideas!
