How can you ensure that your training sessions start on time?

1 Set clear expectations

Before the training session, make sure that your learners know the date, time, duration, and agenda of the session. Send them a confirmation email with a link to join the session, the materials they need to access or download, and any pre-work they need to complete. Remind them of the learning objectives and the benefits of attending the session. Also, inform them of the consequences of being late or absent, such as missing important information, affecting their performance, or losing their certification.

2 Test your technology

Nothing can derail a training session faster than technical issues. To avoid them, test your equipment, software, and internet connection before the session. Make sure that your microphone, camera, and speakers are working properly, and that you have a backup plan in case of power outage or network failure. If you are using a platform or tool that your learners are not familiar with, provide them with a tutorial or a guide on how to use it. Ask them to test their own devices and connections as well, and to log in a few minutes before the session starts.

3 Create a waiting room

A waiting room is a feature that allows you to admit your learners into the session when you are ready. It can help you avoid interruptions, distractions, and confusion during the session. You can use the waiting room to greet your learners, check their attendance, and verify their identities. You can also use it to share some instructions, rules, or icebreakers to warm up your learners and set the tone for the session. A waiting room can also help you deal with latecomers, by asking them to wait until you finish a topic or an activity before joining the session.

4 Start with a bang

Once you have admitted all your learners into the session, don't waste any time and start with a bang. Capture their attention and interest with a powerful opening that relates to the topic, the audience, and the context. You can use a story, a statistic, a quote, a question, or a challenge to hook your learners and motivate them to participate. Make sure that your opening is relevant, engaging, and concise. Don't spend too much time on introductions, housekeeping, or technicalities. Instead, focus on the value and the purpose of the session.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?