By Training Course Material FZE ·
Originally published: 07 October 2021 ·
Last updated: 14 August 2025
You’ve done the prep. Now it’s showtime. These ten moves keep energy high, learning visible, and timing tight—whether you’re live or virtual.
1) Open with a clear timeline
Start on the dot. State the flow, breaks, and how to ask questions. People relax when they know what’s coming.
For more on strong starts, see the first 30 minutes.
2) Set expectations and objectives
Explain what learners will do by the end and why it matters on the job. Keep it to three outcomes.
Need a scaffold? Use Design a Killer Course.
3) Summarize often
After each block, restate the point in one line and ask one check question. Same idea, different words—so more people catch it.
4) Frame multimedia
Before you hit play, tell them what to watch for and what they’ll do after. Then debrief with two questions: “What did you notice?” and “Where will you use it?”
5) Get hands-on fast
Swap long talk for short practice. Try pair drills, triad role‑plays, or a quick build.
Grab ideas from the Free Games & Activities Library.
6) Check knowledge little and often
Use micro‑quizzes, cold calls (friendly), or a lightning round. The goal is retrieval, not stress.
- Four useful ways to assess participants
- Run a quick end‑of‑day review game or use the free PowerPoint file
- Build simple checks with Free Assessment Tools
7) Invite participation (for all types)
Prompt stories, ask for opinions, and give quiet time to jot ideas. Mix solo → pair → share so shy voices show up too.
Tips here: engage shy participants and different learning styles.
8) Repeat questions before you answer
In rooms and on Zoom, echo the question so everyone hears it and you buy a second to think. Then answer to the whole group.
9) Protect the clock
Start and end on time. Use timers for activities, a “parking lot” for off‑topic ideas, and a visible agenda.
More ideas: manage your time during training.
10) Don’t panic—adapt
Tech fails. People arrive late. Keep a no‑tech plan and your guide handy. Breathe, simplify, continue.
See how to deal with a technology failure and how to use a trainer’s guide.
End strong with a fun review
Boost recall with a 10‑minute Jeopardy‑style game. It’s quick to set up and keeps energy high.
