How can you overcome resistance to training programs?

Opportunities really do develop. Started microlearning in my summer holidays on #Moodle and #Totara plus a #Udemy course on Learning Needs Analyses. Completing #NPQ in Leading Teacher Professional Development. Opportunities springing up. It's also given me an authentic voice when managing upwards to SLT.

I do not avoid speaking with employees, and always seek to discuss with them. After finding out the causes of reluctance, I explain to the learners the importance of training to show them how it enhances job performance, fosters new skills and offers a chance to get better job. This way, I ensure that the staff is well motivated to participate in the training plans. I cultivate a work culture that is receptive to questions and makes errors an opportunity for learning and not a basis for criticism. Thus, I can set example and actively engage in training, expressing my attitude towards learning. With such a framework, I intend to combat resistance by creating a positive work culture that fosters increased growth and teamwork.

Start Small: commit to completing a training program a month. Consider it an investment in your personal growth. Nothing feels better than letting others know you care about your career advancement, by continually reaching out to learn more about your career and personal development. Your colleagues and staff will see your results and draw inspiration from your continued development. Your corporate executives will appreciate the value you bring to the company by being proactive and investing in learning that will help you be a better employee. Your mood will change: you will no longer feel like you're in a dead-end job. Opportunities will open up for you and your conversations with peers will change.

Add a training program to your weekly staff meetings. Refer to trainings you have taken in the past. Suggest books, and writers that you have learned from. Highlight the health benefits associated with sticking to a regular training routine.

Understanding why your taking part in training is important- if it’s not relevant, you won’t be interested in training and learning, so make sure you’re in the right training and right way of training for you can increase motivation - also, the more perspectives on a topic the more depth you add to your training if backed up by facts.

If professional development is impersonal and chosen without thought or consideration of prior knowledge, it will not have the desired effect and will likely be a waste of time and money. Prior to offering any training, a survey or skill based assessment of what employees feel they need to be more successful would be informative and helpful for data analysis. Taking the time and effort to direct training to employees’ personal needs, successes, and challenges not only fosters engagement but also helps the organization as a whole.

You, and your managers, most likely know where the pockets of people who are sceptical are. Speak with them directly about what they are experiencing / feeling about your increasing commitment to training. Work with them on realistic solutions, and give them opportunities to be involved in delivering / contributing to training esp where they say 'we already know all of this'

Restate the mission and purpose of the organization. This assists people with connecting the organization’s why and their why to the intentions of the program.

Overcoming resistance to a training program can be achieved by having a clear purpose which motivates oneself. Identify what motivates. Then establish a consistent routine for training sessions to make them a habit. Start small. Incorporate variety - different activities to keep things interesting. Join a group or find a training partner for accountability and encouragement. Keep track on achievements to see improvement. Be flexible and willing to modify the program, if it's not working. Mentally prepare. Focus on positive self-talk.Consult a professional, if struggling. Remember, resistance is common, but with determination and the right strategies, one can overcome it.