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 Train-the-Trainer Tools for SMEs: What’s Worked for You?

Katherine Quiroz's profile image
Katherine Quiroz ATD Member posted 07-03-2025 11:02 AM

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for your recommendations!

We have several subject matter experts who are frequently called on to train others—sometimes formally, sometimes informally. They’re knowledgeable and well-meaning, but many haven’t received any training on how to actually train. I’d love to equip them with something practical, engaging, and bite-sized that helps them improve facilitation, simplify technical content, and keep learners engaged.

Have you come across any great Train-the-Trainer programs or resources specifically geared toward SMEs?
I’m open to live, self-paced, or blended formats—ideally something with beginner-level tips and tricks and doesn’t feel overly academic.

Would love to hear what’s worked well for you or your organization!

Thanks so much,
Kat

Katrina Kennedy's profile image
Katrina Kennedy ATD Member posted 07-04-2025 01:49 PM

Hi Kat! 

This is what I spend most of my time doing! Id be happy to chat about my approach and resources.

Melody Servello's profile image
Melody Servello ATD Member posted 07-06-2025 12:50 PM

Hi! I know the pain! I actually ended up developing my own training to teach SME’s how to train. But for a bite-size recommendation, the biggest “unlock” for my crowd has been understanding learning styles. It doesn’t occur to most, that people learn differently (and we tend to train others in the style we learn best.) Once they discovered this fact and how to reverse course when they aren’t meeting the learner’s needs, it was like magic. 

Neharika Parimi's profile image
Neharika Parimi posted 07-09-2025 12:49 AM

Hi Kat,

I have designed some Train the Facilitators and the foundation of them was creating PODs and create a safe space for them to practice and get feedback. The basic structure would be:

  1. Pre work on facilitation skills - short videos, text, Dos and Don't - duration is approx. 45 mins
  2. Live F2F/Virtual session: They teach back pre-assigned topic and get feedback, Dos and Don'ts and how to manage difficult or unexpected situations
  3. POD: practice with their POD
  4. Submit a mockup video - 15 min on pre-assigned topic

We also provided guidance documents on how to give feedback, the parameters to consider and also some slide notes for inspiration.

Hope this helps!

Regards,

Neharika

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