How do you know if your external training partners are effective?

2 Assess the quality of the content

The content of the training is the core of the learning experience, and it should be relevant, engaging, and up-to-date. You need to assess the quality of the content that your external training partner provides, and make sure that it matches your objectives, audience, and context. Some questions to ask yourself are: Is the content accurate, reliable, and evidence-based? Is it tailored to your industry, sector, or organization? Is it interactive, diverse, and inclusive? Is it accessible, adaptable, and user-friendly? Is it updated regularly and reflect the latest trends and best practices?

3 Evaluate the delivery methods

The delivery methods of the training are the ways that the content is presented and facilitated to the learners. They should be appropriate, effective, and engaging for your employees. You need to evaluate the delivery methods that your external training partner uses, and make sure that they suit your learning objectives, preferences, and resources. Some questions to ask yourself are: Are the delivery methods aligned with the learning outcomes and styles of your employees? Are they flexible, convenient, and scalable for your workforce? Are they interactive, collaborative, and supportive for your employees? Are they compatible with your technology, infrastructure, and security?

4 Monitor the feedback and outcomes

The feedback and outcomes of the training are the indicators that show you how well the training is received and how much it impacts your employees and your organization. You need to monitor the feedback and outcomes that your external training partner collects and reports, and make sure that they reflect your objectives, standards, and values. Some questions to ask yourself are: How does your external training partner gather and analyze feedback from your employees and stakeholders? How does your external training partner measure and report the outcomes of the training, such as knowledge retention, skill transfer, behavior change, or business results? How does your external training partner use the feedback and outcomes to improve the training and address any issues or gaps?

5 Review the relationship and communication

The relationship and communication between you and your external training partner are the foundations of a successful and long-term partnership. You need to review the relationship and communication that you have with your external training partner, and make sure that they are respectful, transparent, and collaborative. Some questions to ask yourself are: How does your external training partner communicate with you before, during, and after the training? How does your external training partner listen to your needs, expectations, and feedback? How does your external training partner respect your culture, values, and policies? How does your external training partner share their expertise, insights, and recommendations?

By following these tips, you can evaluate and improve your external training partners and ensure that they are effective and aligned with your workforce management goals. You can also build trust, loyalty, and satisfaction with your employees and stakeholders by providing them with high-quality and impactful training opportunities.

6 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?