Question from James P.:
“Our organization has invested in a lot of training over the years and, if I’m being honest, we don’t see much of a return. There is always a short-term burst of morale, I suppose, but it doesn’t last. Before we finalize our training budget for next year, is there anything we can do differently to have lasting results?”
Dear James,
I completely understand your frustration! I experience it too, every time I hear a leader say, “Oh, we already did DISC, EQ, or leadership training, and it made no difference.”
The truth is, most soft skills training has minimal long-term impact because organizations forget to include key adult learning principles that ensure the training sticks. Here’s what makes a real difference in effective training for lasting results.
1. Repetition = Retention
One of the most important adult learning principles is repetition. The Forgetting Curve shows how information is rapidly lost over time if we don’t make a conscious effort to review and remember the material.
Most training programs take a “one-and-done” approach, with no reinforcement or follow-up to cement the learning. As a result, the skills or concepts learned are quickly forgotten, and the training’s value diminishes. For real, lasting impact, you need to incorporate reinforcement sessions, review opportunities, and refreshers to help the team retain what they’ve learned.
TIP: Regular follow-up sessions and practical application will help retain the knowledge long after the training ends.
2. Application = Mastery
Learning new skills is not enough. If participants don’t get the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in real-world scenarios, the skills become “shelf help” — forgotten information sitting in a training binder. Most participants never get past the theory because they haven’t had a chance to practice and apply the concepts in a practical way. This is where most training programs fall short.
To achieve effective training for lasting results, the training needs to include real-life application opportunities. Instead of relying on role-plays in the training room, give participants chances to practice the new skills on the job, with support and feedback.
TIP: Design training programs that include multiple sessions with assignments or projects participants can apply in their day-to-day work.
3. Cohorts = Accountability
Many training programs expect individuals to learn and apply new skills on their own. However, learning is much more effective when done in groups. Cohorts of individuals going through the same process can support, encourage, and provide accountability for each other.
Training works best when participants have a support network to check in, provide feedback, and share experiences. This cohort-based learning approach not only keeps participants engaged but also ensures they continue to practice and improve their skills after the initial training ends.
TIP: Create peer groups or learning cohorts to support each other as they practice and apply their new skills.
How to Improve Training Outcomes in Your Organization
James, based on these principles, there are three things you can do to ensure that your training has a lasting impact:
- Incorporate Repetition: Plan follow-up sessions or review modules to reinforce key concepts.
- Focus on Application: Provide real-world opportunities for participants to apply what they’ve learned.
- Use Cohorts for Accountability: Form groups to encourage continuous learning and feedback.
If you need help integrating any of these principles into your training programs, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to assist!
Additional Resources for Building Emotional Intelligence
Here are a few more Emotional Intelligence (EQ) resources that might help you in developing lasting leadership and team development:
1. Leadership & Self-Deception by The Arbinger Institute
Why:
“This may be the most impactful and life-changing book I’ve ever read in my career as a CEO,” said one of my clients. The book exposes the fascinating ways we blind ourselves to our true motivations and unknowingly sabotage our efforts to achieve success and happiness. If you’ve read every self-help and professional development book out there, this is the next one to get.
2. Emotional Quotient Assessment by DISC Wizard
Why:
Utilizing the Emotional Quotient (EQ) Assessment in your organization will help your team improve their emotional intelligence. This assessment assists with:
- Making better hiring decisions
- Increasing employee development and engagement
- Establishing executive and leadership development
- Improving workplace communication and reducing conflict
The EQ Assessment measures self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, social awareness, and social regulation. Contact us for a free sample assessment!
3. TegraLearn Online Learning Platform
Why:
Most leadership training fails to deliver results because it doesn’t align with how adults learn. TegraLearn integrates the following elements for effective results:
- Assessment-Based: Assesses participants before training, providing a baseline for measuring progress.
- Adult Learning Science: Uses engaging, relevant video content, immediate practical application, and reinforcement over time.
- Live Coaching: Integrates live coaching to boost course completion rates and ensure real behavior change.
Training programs need more than a “one-and-done” approach to make a real difference. By integrating repetition, application, and cohorts, your organization can experience effective training for lasting results. These principles ensure that your investment in training has a lasting impact on both individuals and the organization as a whole.
Ready to Transform Your Training Programs for Lasting Impact?
Don’t let your investment in training go to waste. At DISC Wizard, we specialize in creating customized training solutions that apply key principles like repetition, real-world application, and cohort-based learning. Whether you’re looking to enhance leadership development, improve emotional intelligence, or increase team productivity, we’re here to help!
Contact us today to learn how we can tailor a training program that delivers real, measurable results. Call 888-347-2949 or email us at info@discwizardonline.com for a free consultation!
