Tell me about a time when you had to handle a participant who was resistant to a specific training method or approach. How did you address their concerns and help them see the benefits?
Training and Development Manager Interview Questions
Sample answer to the question
I once had a participant who was resistant to a new training method we were implementing. They believed that the traditional classroom approach was more effective and didn't see the benefits of the new method. To address their concerns, I sat down with them to understand their perspective and listened attentively. I explained the reasons behind the new method and how it aligned with the company's strategic goals. I also provided examples of how the new method had worked well in other departments. Additionally, I offered to provide extra support during the training to ensure their success. By addressing their concerns and showing them the potential benefits, they gradually became more open to the new approach and eventually embraced it.
A more solid answer
During a training program, I encountered a participant who was resistant to a new e-learning approach we were introducing. They believed that face-to-face training was more effective. To address their concerns, I scheduled a one-on-one meeting to understand their perspective and actively listened to their apprehensions. I then empathetically explained the rationale behind the e-learning approach, highlighting its flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. To help them see the benefits, I shared success stories from other participants who had experienced improved learning outcomes with e-learning. Additionally, I offered individualized support throughout the program and provided resources to address any technical difficulties they might encounter. By addressing their concerns, offering support, and sharing success stories, I gradually won their trust and helped them see the advantages of the new training method. Eventually, they became actively engaged and embraced the e-learning approach.
Why this is a more solid answer:
This solid answer provides more specific details about the training method, such as e-learning, and highlights its benefits, including flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. The candidate also demonstrates strong communication and problem-solving skills by actively listening to the participant's concerns, empathetically explaining the rationale behind the new approach, and offering individual support. The answer could be further improved by quantifying the success of the e-learning approach and providing specific examples of how the candidate tailored the training to address the participant's concerns.
An exceptional answer
During a leadership development program, I encountered a participant who was resistant to a simulation-based training approach we were implementing. They believed that traditional classroom training was more effective for leadership skills development. To address their concerns, I scheduled a meeting to understand their perspective in-depth. I listened actively and empathetically, acknowledging their experience and expertise. I then presented a well-researched case study that demonstrated the effectiveness of simulation-based training in developing real-life leadership skills. I highlighted how the approach provided opportunities for experiential learning, immediate feedback, and the practical application of skills. To further alleviate their concerns, I arranged for them to connect with a senior leader who had successfully completed the simulation-based training. They had a conversation and shared their experiences, which helped the resistant participant gain confidence in the new approach. Throughout the program, I provided personalized guidance, ensuring the participant's success and addressing their specific development needs. By utilizing a tailored approach, addressing concerns with evidence-based arguments, and facilitating a connection with a role model, I successfully helped the participant overcome resistance and fully embrace the benefits of the simulation-based training.
Why this is an exceptional answer:
This exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a well-researched case study and arranging a conversation with a senior leader who had successfully completed the training. The candidate demonstrates strong leadership and problem-solving skills by tailoring the approach to address the participant's concerns and providing personalized guidance. The answer could be further enhanced by quantifying the participant's progress and measurable outcomes from the simulation-based training.
How to prepare for this question
- Familiarize yourself with various training methods, including e-learning, simulations, workshops, and coaching.
- Research and understand the advantages and potential challenges of each training method.
- Be prepared to provide specific examples of how a training method has been effective in the past, including improved learning outcomes or job performance.
- Develop good active listening skills to understand participants' concerns and challenges.
- Practice explaining the benefits of different training methods and how they align with organizational goals.
- Be ready to share success stories from other participants who have experienced positive results from specific training methods.
- Consider how you can tailor training to address individual concerns and provide additional support.
- Think about how you can engage resistant participants by connecting them with role models or providing opportunities for peer learning.
What interviewers are evaluating
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Leadership and Management
- Adaptability and Flexibility
Related Interview Questions
More questions for Training and Development Manager interviews