Time Element

For a training to be effective and to meet its expected end goal, the presentation pace must be appropriate to the listening and learning capabilities of the audience or of the participants. An effective speaker must also be able to establish a smooth dialogue or interaction with the audience or with the participants. The speaker must be flexible enough to make necessary adjustments in his or her speech and delivery. The sense of timing and teaching rhythm must also be fit to the training’s and the speaker’s predefined objectives, process and the participants’ needs.

One of the outcomes most dreaded by speakers and training organizers is when the audience becomes bored. Bored faces and droopy eyes are already warning signals for the speaker to make his or her delivery pace faster. Establish the dramatic level and play with your audience.

When the speaker encounters the dilemma of whether to extend the time or to cut short the information, it is more appropriate to let the audience make the decision on whether to prolong the training or not. Speakers should be transparent to their audience as to the additional time needed in the training.

The speaker may also allow time for short breaks in between the training presentation. A fifteen-minute break in the morning and in the afternoon sessions may do. Participants may also be given mobile or stand-up activities to perk up their attention. Participants usually get bored if they have been following the same pace and the same physical position during the entire session. The speaker must also be critical in allowing breaks. Modules or topics should not be interrupted or cut just to give time for breaks.

The biggest challenge for speakers is handling sessions in the afternoon, particularly in the first thirty minutes after the lunch break. Late arrivals, low energy levels and late lunch digestion are common problems that speakers often encounter. To combat these problems, speakers must be prepared with activities filled with energy and enthusiasm. It is also essential to recall the previous discussions tackled during the morning sessions and to give an overview on the discussions to be tackled on the afternoon session. Movie viewing after lunch should be a big no-no for speakers. This activity will just provide the audience the opportunity to fall asleep, instead of boozing up their energy.

At the end of the training, most participants usually feel a sense of accomplishment, satisfaction and pride. They may also feel sad for having to say goodbye to the new friends they have made during the training. Highly participative activities are also highly appropriate as concluding points. Reviewing and summarizing are also essential elements that should be remembered in ending a training.


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