Remote training does not need to be complicated - it can be as simple as identifying a relevant topic, planning a date/time, then using the right tools to virtually run a training session. Or it may involve remote courses that an individual can do from home.
Develop a training plan
The first step is to agree and document a training plan with each of your team. This needs to be achievable and realistic for each individual, bearing in mind that some may currently have much more time available than others;
Make it personal
Make the training personal - this may involve team sessions relevant to all attendees, or otherwise individual training sessions or courses but remember people learn better in different ways, at different paces.
Helpful tools
Use the right tools - a great tool is Zoom to run a session or 121 meeting to discuss training. The Maybe* team use this when we need to do video conferencing, training, presentations and if we need to record our video calls to share with others. Other similar tools include Google Meet or Hangouts, WebEx, Skype, LogMeIn, GoToMeeting.
Set objectives
Prior to the training set out the objectives and foundations, send any relevant information for people to review beforehand, and agree timescales and objectives.
Make it interactive
Demonstrate via screen shares or pre-recorded materials, and if possible get people to try things real-time, sharing their screen with you while they do this. People are 70% more likely to retain information if they practice doing it, rather than just listening to how it’s done (Learning Pyramid - wikipedia). `Try asking and encouraging questions throughout the session.
Provide a take-away
Leave trainees with something to take away, maybe things to look at further and feedback. Keep resources in one place for your team to access afterwards and record any training sessions so they can go back and review these. Set goals for the next steps after the training and follow this up.
Plan regular sessions
This could be weekly or bi-weekly - whatever is appropriate.
Free resources
There are lots of free training resources - a search on the internet should give you ideas - and there may be other courses specific to your industry or the individual’s personal development. Any courses you identify with your team members can be noted on a training plan, with agreed timescales.
by Hannah McKernon
