Training & Development For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Introduction

Training is the best profession in the world. The training professional touches almost everyone every day. Whether you’re experiencing a golf lesson, taking a virtual course to learn to use new computer software, working with Leaders Beyond Boundaries in Ethiopia, trying a new recipe, or being coached by your boss, you’re learning something new and experiencing training. You and your trainer don’t even need to be in the same room or on the same schedule.

What other career affords you the opportunity to increase an organization’s bottom line, improve your country’s productivity level, and enhance individuals’ lives around the globe, all at the same time? It is truly a privilege to be a trainer, yet it’s also a responsibility. Training is a profession on the move, and those moves are ones to be proud of.

This edition couldn’t come at a better time. People owe trainers everywhere a huge thank you. During the pandemic, your organization’s goals changed overnight. Employees were stuck at home but in need of training so that they could continue to support their organizations’ strategic imperatives. Those of you in talent development (TD) departments had to instantaneously determine what skills employees required and design learning in short bursts that focused on the few vital skills your organizations needed. You had to ensure that training was accessible to all employees. You had to engage employees who were stressed and distracted by children, pets, and working from ...