Optimising behaviour during training

Staff behaviour during training can have a big impact on its effectiveness. Often, challenging behaviour during training arises as expectations around appropriate behaviour have not been communicated to staff by their employer and have never formed part of the firm’s culture.

Although a person’s attitude is ultimately what will determine their behaviour during training, a good attitude to the employer, the workplace and the job will usually extend to positive behaviours during learning.

Proactive approach​

A proactive approach is important, with instructors creating conditions that encourage positive behaviour. A comfortable environment, for example, makes trainees more open to learning, which in turn can improve their behaviour during the session.

Employers and instructors should also ensure there is ample time for training to be delivered, as some candidates will be more likely to exhibit negative behaviours in a highly time-pressured environment.

Learning about the candidates beforehand or finding out some personal information about them during the training can help to build a relationship and encourage a friendly, respectful atmosphere in the training room. Of course, knowing the subject well and being confident in delivery will also give instructors credibility in the eyes of the trainees.

Clear understanding​

The RTITB Instructor Academy recommends all employees are given a clear understanding of the processes they are required to follow, the way in which these should be actioned and the employer’s expectations of their behaviour. 

Unfortunately, you can’t teach good behaviour, but by embedding the right standards in company culture and ensuring instructors are trained to deal with adult learners – who might not always be fully engaged – challenging behaviour during training can be managed and improved.