Choosing a specialist provider for a business’ training needs is an increasingly popular choice. There are many different training organisations available, offering a huge range of different courses so how to choose? Here are some tips:
What is the requirement?
You firstly need to understand who needs the training and what you and they want to achieve from the course. Establish your and their training objectives and current commitments.
Team members
For those who wish to receive the training, consider how they learn best. Each of us have different learning styles with some preferring a classroom-based experience and others wanting hands-on training. Perhaps it’s possible to combine both elements. Consider the individuals in a team and how the training will impact them. Things to consider include age, gender, personal circumstances and whether they are full or part-time. For example, a part-time worker with childcare arrangements to consider might need some extra support.
Research
When you have established your objectives, take some time to research the different training providers who offer what you’re looking for. Find out as much as you can and draw up a shortlist before making an informed choice.
Doing the research
Once you have an idea of what you want to achieve, spend some time researching providers who may be suitable, and then create a shortlist from which to select the provider. There are a number of sources of information about providers that will enable you to make an informed choice. Colleagues may have good recommendations or helpful advice of those to avoid!
It can be useful to attend any events aimed at HR and training, along with plenty of online research of provider’s websites.
Speaking to HR professionals can also be helpful as they will have insight into outsourcing training. See which providers they have collaborated with in the past. This is also a great way of networking, sharing experience and knowledge, as well as meeting new people in your field of work.
When you have your shortlist, the next step is to make contact with the potential providers. Tell them your needs and goals, what you hope to achieve through training and ask how they can meet those needs. For a provider that offers Scrum Master Training, consider Scrum Master Training from Althris.
A good provider should respond by asking lots of questions to fully understand your needs and not assume they already know. Avoid the provider who asks no questions, as they will treat everyone the same regardless of need or goal.
They should respond with a detailed proposal that outlines your needs and their solution. If they cannot offer what you’re seeking, they should be upfront and recommend a provider who can meet your requirements. They should not try to bend your needs to fit their products. A follow-up is expected and is a positive sign that they value you as a potential customer and appreciate your business.
Your final choice should be based on the following:
They are able to meet your objectives for training
Their approach is professional and timely
Their credentials, referrals and feedback are excellent
They offer value for money
