By Training Course Material FZE ·
Originally published: 30 July 2021 ·
Last updated: 14 August 2025
Learning “lands” only when people use it. That jump—from classroom to job—is transfer. Here’s a simple, repeatable playbook to help it happen more often.
Before: set up transfer
- Start with one workplace outcome. “After this, [role] will [do X] so [metric Y] improves.” Need a scaffold? See Design a Killer Course.
- Prime managers. Ask them to name one task where the skill will be used next week and to give a 5‑minute follow‑up chat.
- Gather a baseline. A 5‑question pre‑quiz or quick sample task. Build it fast with Free Assessment Tools.
During: make practice look like the job
- Use cases, not trivia. Swap generic examples for realistic ones—see ways to use case studies.
- Teach‑back in triads. Learner A explains, B performs, C observes with a checklist. Rotate.
- Self‑explanation. Ask, “In your words, what will you do differently this week?” (Write it.)
- Plan the first use. “If it’s Tuesday at stand‑up, then I’ll use the 3‑line update.”
- Boost recall. End with a 10‑minute review game—see Law of Forgetting + Review Game or download the free PowerPoint file.
After: nudge, practice, prove
5‑touch follow‑up (copy/paste)
- Day 1: Short “first use” reminder + checklist.
- Day 3: 3‑question micro‑quiz (spaced retrieval).
- Day 7: Ask for one obstacle; reply with a tip.
- Day 14: Peer share—post one example/win.
- Day 30: Quick self‑rating + manager comment.
Simple artifacts that help transfer
- 1‑page job aid (steps, pitfalls, “do say / don’t say”).
- Observer checklist for on‑the‑job practice.
- Before/after log (what you tried; result; next tweak).
What to measure (fast)
Keep it light but real. Pick one behavior and one outcome you can see in a month.
| Behavior | Quick check | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Use empathy stem + clarify ask | Observer checklist in 5 calls | CSAT ↑ or repeat contacts ↓ |
| Run 10‑min team huddle | Manager spot‑check once/week | Escalations ↓ |
For fair, low‑stress checks, see assessing participants and build quick items with Free Assessment Tools.
Lock it in with a fun review
Cap the session with a 10‑minute Jeopardy‑style review. It’s fast, competitive, and primes next‑day recall.
