• In: Training | On: Aug 12, 2021

Choosing a Training Company

The 7-Rules to Follow

Most people shy away from choosing a training company as they consider it is something of a shot in the dark. Training companies can be difficult to choose because there are many ways they could try and separate you from your hard-earned cash. There are some things you need to know about picking a training provider.

Training companies provide training on a range of topics. When it comes to selecting the right training company, there are things you need to consider before signing up for a course. Training providers vary in terms of quality, so do your research before settling for one.

Here is how to select the right training company:

 

1. Look at customer feedback.

Is customer feedback available to see what others have experienced? Look at websites such as Trustpilot and similar. Hearing from previous customers is usually the best way to see if the training was good.

 

2. Ask about the lecturer’s background.

Do they have real-life experience in what they teach, or are they just following the script? This is an important one as there are many things a book can’t teach you as they say. Being able to answer questions around the topic is just as important as giving lectures. Watch for companies that provide a list of fancy academic qualifications and experience that are not relevant to the courses being delivered. (there’s that reading from the script again!)

 

3. Is the training provider a competitor to your other business lines?

Although this may not affect the quality of the training, are you giving your competitor a help up the ladder by increasing their turnover? Look at your training providers services. Do they offer services that are similar to yours and maybe competing for the same work? If that’s the case, look for independent training companies who specialise only in training and won’t be competing against you on other service lines.

 

4. Watch for “Rolling Discounts/Heavy Discounts”.

A company usually discounts something that isn’t selling or is at least not selling as much as they would like. They may offer discounts for a “limited time only” to try and make you jump into rash decisions for “fear of missing out”. Often the discount will just roll on indefinitely after each end date. Ask the training company how long the discount has been going for, and if it’s likely to be extended….again. Here’s why companies get caught in the discount trap. They are short term gain for long term pain..for the business. Quality drops, as does brand reputation.

 

5. Pick up the phone!

Where possible, if you are unsure; pick up the phone! Nothing gives you a better feel about a company than actually speaking to the staff. Don’t fall for prepared scripts.

Ask to speak to the lecturers if you want to see what technical subjects are covered and in how much detail.

 

6. Are they flexible?

Every business has Terms and Conditions. They are there to protect the business and you. Often there are cancellation policies for training. Make sure and read the T&Cs. Especially in today’s climate. Are there any specific Covid-19 exceptions? Are they flexible? Bear in mind a business must make money to operate, so don’t expect a free for all.

 

7. What else have they contributed to the industry?

Are they purely a money-making machine? Or do they genuinely get involved in the industry? Do they have any publications or free webinars? Look for things the company have given back to the industry. Is there aftercare support on technical matters, or is it ‘in the door out the door philosophy’.

 

It’s never easy choosing a training provider, but sticking by these rules can certainly give you a head start!