Corporate trainers create and manage company-wide employee training programs. As part of their duties, they also teach classes and procure outside training services. A four-year college degree or higher is typically required to work as a corporate trainer. People with advanced degrees may have an easier time moving up the corporate ladder. The degree field can vary, but common majors include human resources administration, organizational development, psychology, and education. Look for internships in corporate human resources departments after you’ve decided on a degree field and are in college to gain experience and possibly contacts for future employment.
If you want to work as a corporate trainer, it’s a good idea to join professional development organizations for professionals in the field. The American Society for Training and Development is an example of such an organization in the United States. Professional organizations can provide career coaching, résumé writing assistance, job leads, and other information to aspiring corporate trainers. These types of organizations also host educational and networking events. Volunteering to assist with the organization’s events and activities can increase your visibility in the field and lead to job opportunities.
Strong communication skills and a clear and articulate speaking style are two characteristics that will help you succeed as a corporate trainer. You will be able to stand up in front of a classroom if you have good public speaking skills. Consider joining an organization that will help you improve your public speaking skills, such as Toastmasters International, if you need more experience. Other qualities include being able to think on your feet when answering questions and having a friendly and engaging demeanor to keep class attendees engaged.
Good analytical skills to identify where training is needed and the best method for delivering it are also important abilities to have if you want to become a corporate trainer. You will be able to create lesson plans if you have strong conceptualizing and writing skills. Skills in coordination and organization will aid you in keeping track of daily training requirements. Follow-up skills for tracking training metrics will help ensure that your company’s training program is effective. If you want to work as a corporate trainer, you’ll need to know how to create training presentations using computer software and how to use various electronic information delivery systems.
After gaining some experience as a corporate trainer, you might want to pursue learning and development certification from a professional organization. Certification can help prospective employers understand your background and expertise, or it can help you advance in your current position. After gaining experience as full-time employees, some corporate trainers go into business for themselves as self-employed consultants. To succeed as a self-employed person, you’ll need strong networking and marketing skills.