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Training managers, a heavy training schedule with several weeks of classroom instruction in a row can take a toll on an instructor. Combine this with travel and administrative duties and an instructor can be at risk of burning out.
Here are 10 “tell-tale” signs to watch for:
1. Lacking enthusiasm and energy where the instructor seems to be just “going through the motions.”
2. Feeling exhausted at the end of an instructional day.
3. Failing to check equipment and materials and not paying attention to the small details.
4. Showing a decreased passion for learning that is noticeable to the learners and might even transfer to them.
5. Arriving at the classroom at the last minute and leaving as soon as possible, spending the least amount of time in the classroom as possible.
6. Feeling bored with course content and a lack of commitment in delivering it to the learners.
7. Having difficulty focusing on learners’ questions and actually tuning out their comments.
8. Not being able to remember learners’ names and information about their needs and concerns.
9. Failing to smile or use humor when teaching.
10. Dreading getting out of bed in the morning.
Any one of these signs can indicate that an instructor is burning out. As a training manager, the key is to recognize them and manage the instructor’s teaching days accordingly. If the teaching days are heavy and there is a decline in performance indicated on evaluation forms, there is cause to investigate further. If an instructor is experiencing some of these signs it could be time to re-assess instructor workload and related duties.
Training managers need to know the most common instructor problems and how to correct them. The Successful Training Manager workshop focuses on how to assess potential instructor burnout, as well as all other aspects of managing the training function. Take a look!
To find out how to prevent instructor burnout, check out our Advanced Instructional Techniques workshop!