How to choose a Training Provider
Weaving your way through the process of choosing training provision can be excessively time consuming and brings no guarantee of success. Training providers’ websites span the spectrum from further education colleges to freelance consultants. Therefore, before you start trawling the net, be clear on what you wish to achieve through training. Is it training you require or would consultancy be more suitable? Give thought to the model of delivery you are looking for: facilitation, group work, 1:1 coaching, vocational or online learning?
Secure a budget! Some providers will be able to access public funds to support your training, however do not allow funding to be the main criteria for going forward. There is no such thing as ‘free’ training; time attending courses comes at a cost!
By embarking on training you are investing in your company as well as the individual, do not diminish the value by trying to tailor your needs to meet funding criteria.
Where possible embark on training that can provide accreditation or qualification. Knowing that the training meets national standards is an insurance against the quality of the work.
Have the provider supply as much information as possible, before meeting them. When making your decision remember:
- Size does not count
- Seek references
- Expect a thorough consultation with yourselves to be undertaken
- Take time and establish if the ethos and values of the provider match your own
- Favour the provider that advises on key performance indicators against their proposed training
- Interview the people who will be delivering the training.
Feel free to contact us for further advice on how to choose a training provider or share your experiences on our forum. Our Learning Champions short course also provides invaluable information on how to choose and work with providers.
