A common query we receive during bookings or when providing quotations is about our training process. Here are some of our thoughts.
Don’t Forget Who We Are Training
It’s essential to remember that those we’re training aren’t desk-bound individuals. They thrive in dynamic, interactive environments. Given that event staff and promotional staff aren’t accustomed to lengthy PowerPoint sessions, it’s crucial to keep training lively, succinct, and interactive. We often advise our clients to ensure training is brisk and to the point. After all, interactions at events, even large-scale ones, are typically brief, energetic, and engaging. The training should mirror these characteristics to prepare staff effectively.
Embracing Virtual Training
The pandemic has made virtual meetings a staple for many. This shift has not only been cost-effective, eliminating the need for large centralised conference rooms, but it also allows us to swiftly assemble a promotional team. They can meet the client, get acquainted with each other, and understand the crucial aspects of their roles.
The Value of Face-to-Face Training
While virtual training has its merits, we recognise the irreplaceable value of in-person sessions for certain campaigns. Some projects demand hands-on training, especially when staff will demonstrate products or services to customers. However, not all campaigns require this. We’re confident that a virtual environment can provide a solid foundation, preparing staff to be event-ready. This approach ensures they’re familiar with the venue before attendees arrive.
Flexible Training Schedules
A challenge our account management team at Executional often faces is aligning specific candidates with designated training times. To avoid missing out on the best talent due to scheduling conflicts, we recommend flexible training hours. Since many of our events occur during regular business hours, we suggest training sessions outside the typical 9 to 5 timeframe. This ensures maximum attendance, accommodating everyone’s availability.
Is Group Training Always Necessary?
Not every booking demands an elaborate training session. Executional’s streamlined briefing process, initiated upon quotation acceptance, ensures staff are well-informed. Clients receive an activity briefing pack, which is then integrated into our internal systems, and accessible to staff. This includes essential details like meeting points, contact numbers, dress codes, and more. Our account managers take the time to discuss this information with the staff, ensuring they’re well-prepared for the event.
Don’t Leave It Until The Last Moment
Whether it’s through our staff briefing form or by sending details in a Word document or PDF, timely communication is crucial. We often find ourselves seeking information from clients as the event deadline looms. To ensure a smooth process, it’s beneficial to provide this information early. This allows us to set up job alerts effectively and guarantees that our staff are fully informed and ready to excel from the get-go.
Don’t Forget The Group Huddle
Let’s not overlook the importance of a group huddle. While our staff members undergo either virtual or in-person training sessions and receive detailed briefing packs reviewed by Executional’s internal account managers, we believe in the value of early on-site preparation. It’s crucial for the team to arrive at the event, promotion, or show well ahead of the public. This allows them to familiarise themselves with the venue and ensures they’re set for a smooth start.
