/Training and Development Manager/ Interview Questions
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Tell me about a time when you had to deal with resistance to a training program. How did you handle it?

Training and Development Manager Interview Questions
Tell me about a time when you had to deal with resistance to a training program. How did you handle it?

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a Training Manager, I encountered resistance to a new training program that I implemented. The program aimed to introduce a new software system to improve efficiency and productivity. Some employees were hesitant to embrace the change and questioned the need for additional training. To handle this resistance, I organized a series of informational sessions to explain the benefits of the new software and address any concerns. I also conducted one-on-one meetings with employees who were particularly reluctant and provided personalized support and guidance. Furthermore, I collaborated with department heads to create a supportive environment where employees felt comfortable asking questions and seeking assistance. By actively addressing resistance and providing clear communication, I was able to overcome the initial resistance and successfully implement the training program.

A more solid answer

In my previous role as a Training Manager, I encountered resistance to a new training program that I implemented. The program aimed to introduce a new software system to improve efficiency and productivity. Some employees were hesitant to embrace the change and questioned the need for additional training. To handle this resistance, I organized a series of informational sessions to explain the benefits of the new software and address any concerns. During these sessions, I emphasized the tangible advantages of the software, such as time-saving features and increased accuracy. I also shared success stories from other teams that had already adopted the software. Additionally, I scheduled one-on-one meetings with employees who were particularly reluctant and provided personalized support and guidance. I listened to their concerns, answered their questions, and offered reassurance. To foster a collaborative environment, I reached out to department heads and sought their involvement in the training program. By including them in the planning process and emphasizing the benefits for their teams, I gained their support and advocacy. Throughout the implementation of the training program, I maintained open lines of communication and regularly shared progress updates with all employees. As a result of my proactive approach and effective communication, the resistance to the training program gradually diminished, and employees started to embrace the change. The training program was successfully completed on schedule, and the new software system was fully adopted by the organization.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer includes more specific details about the steps taken to address resistance, such as emphasizing the benefits of the new software and sharing success stories. It also highlights the collaboration with department heads and the regular communication with all employees. However, it could still provide more measurable outcomes of the training program and how it positively impacted the organization.

An exceptional answer

In my previous role as a Training Manager, I encountered resistance to a new training program that I implemented. The program aimed to introduce a new software system to improve efficiency and productivity. Some employees were hesitant to embrace the change and questioned the need for additional training. To handle this resistance, I took a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, I conducted a thorough needs assessment to understand the specific concerns and resistance points. This allowed me to tailor my communication and address the underlying reasons behind the resistance. I organized a series of interactive workshops where employees could actively learn and explore the new software system. These workshops not only provided hands-on experience but also allowed employees to see the software in action and witness its potential benefits. I also leveraged the expertise of internal champions who had already successfully embraced the new software. These champions served as mentors and provided guidance and support to their colleagues, showing them the practical advantages and serving as strong advocates for the training program. To ensure ongoing support and reinforcement, I developed a post-training support plan. This plan included regular check-ins and refresher sessions to ensure sustained learning and implementation. As a result of these efforts, the initial resistance gradually transformed into excitement and curiosity, and employees actively participated in the training program. The new software system was successfully adopted across the organization, leading to significant improvements in efficiency and productivity.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer includes additional details about conducting a needs assessment, organizing interactive workshops, and leveraging internal champions. It also highlights the development of a post-training support plan for sustained learning. The answer demonstrates a comprehensive and strategic approach to overcoming resistance to the training program. However, it could provide more specific measurable outcomes of the improvements in efficiency and productivity as a result of the training program.

How to prepare for this question

  • Before the interview, reflect on your past experiences where you encountered resistance to a training program. Identify a specific example that showcases your problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills.
  • When crafting your answer, be sure to include specific details about the steps you took to address the resistance, such as organizing specific activities or seeking collaboration with other departments.
  • Highlight the measurable outcomes or positive impact of the training program, such as improvements in efficiency, productivity, or employee satisfaction.
  • Demonstrate your adaptability and flexibility by discussing any adjustments or adaptations you made to the training program based on feedback and changing needs.
  • Emphasize your ability to build relationships and foster collaboration by mentioning how you involved and gained support from other stakeholders or departments.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Leadership and Management
  • Communication
  • Problem-solving

Related Interview Questions

More questions for Training and Development Manager interviews