What Not to Do to Make Virtual Training Effective

COVID-19 pandemic has changed our world in ways we could not imagine even a few weeks back. For better or worse the word is going to become more virtual. What that means for the learning and development fraternity is delivering meaningful and engaging sessions virtually across topics. Both learners and trainers will need to adapt to this new way of learning - “I am old school” is not an adage that will do anymore.  

While a lot has been written on this topic, here are my thoughts on what not to do in virtual training to make it effective. 

1. Don’t Reuse & Recycle – You may have delivered the same “Communication Skills” or “Managerial Training” session a million times, you may know the content like the back of your hand; but don’t be tempted to go with the same flow and content for the virtual session. Virtual sessions are a very different ballgame. The slide deck needs to look different and have all participant cues in black and white, the trainer needs to practice what and how to say things and of course all activities and games need to be re-planned. Reuse and recycle will work only to a limited extent.  
2. Don’t Make Things Up as You Go – Even for topics that you are most comfortable with, making things as you go during a virtual session just does not work. Planning each activity, the time allotted and being very precise about the exact words you use are of utmost importance. It is easy to lose track of rambling conversations; while unstructured conversations work in classroom sessions, virtual sessions need to be structured and planned thoroughly. However, spontaneous conversations are needed for engagement. Also ensure you know the virtual training tool well and have done practice sessions beforehand.  
3. Don’t Let Sessions Overrun Their Time – Time management is critical to good virtual sessions. Sessions that regularly overrun can be off-putting. Also remember, that an 8-hour classroom training should not translate directly into an 8-hour virtual session. Virtual sessions should be broken down into smaller micro sessions to help sustain the learner’s attention. 

Delivering virtual sessions can be relaxing and fun but also need preparation and creativity to make them engaging. Using tools like polls, virtual break-out groups, Q&A and chat can make virtual training highly engaging and rewarding.  

So, what are your virtual training tips?