List of 30 Training and Development Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Behavioral Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Compatibility Questions
- 6. Competency Questions
- 7. Creative Thinking Questions
- 8. Diligence Questions
- 9. Direct Questions
- 10. Experience Questions
- 11. Job Satisfaction Questions
- 12. Leadership Questions
- 13. Performance Based Questions
- 14. Scenario Based Questions
- 15. Stress Questions
- 16. Teamwork Questions
Accomplishment
1.
Tell me about a recent training program you created. Why was it so special, and what did you learn in the process?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear you discuss a successful training program that you designed and implemented. Explain the purpose of the training program, how you built the training, and what made the experience so enjoyable. Be sure to show enthusiasm for your work as a Training and Development Manager by sharing details of the results you achieved and discussing what you learned during the process.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Last quarter, I developed an onboarding program from start to finish for all new sales-department employees. The program was delivered 100% online, where before, it was a combination of online and in-person training. The modules were on the company, policies, sales expectations, and sales materials. The company asked me to use Bridge as the course development platform. Bridge is a robust program that allowed me to input the training information along with built-in multimedia, making it straightforward for instructors and attendees to use. The Human Resources team helped me create engaging videos and activities to make learning exciting for our new hires. After the first new hire training was complete, I asked the attendees to fill out a feedback form. There was an overwhelmingly positive response. It seemed the new hires enjoyed the training because they could learn interactively while feeling a warm welcome from the company, despite the training taking place online. My greatest takeaway was what I learned about online learning and its effectiveness. It's exciting to see that high levels of engagement can still happen even outside of traditional classroom-style training."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Community Answer
"I designed a sensitivity program for the police as part of my leadership and development program. The program was a combination of in-person and online training. I worked with their training specialists to create videos and activities that made the training on point and relevant. Female police officers were 'actors' in these videos. We had a great time creating them, and because their officers were in the videos, the topic became more personal and real for the male officers. This contributed to their learning both as interactive opportunities but connecting to real people."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Great answer! The only thing I recommend including is what the goal/purpose of the training was. I like how you describe the result of the training and its impact on the male officers.
Accomplishment
2.
What is your greatest work-related accomplishment?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are proud of your career as a Training and Development Manager. Looking back, you have already accomplished a great deal in your life! You have educated yourself and dedicated your career to helping others boost their performance through continuous learning. Think of the highlights you have experienced throughout your career and be ready to discuss which achievement makes you feel the proudest.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"My greatest feelings of accomplishment come from the collective difference that I have been able to make in the lives of others. Each time I have a successful training session or develop a program that makes a difference, I feel that I have added to my overall success as a Training and Development Manager. When I can make employees happier and more productive, it's a significant win. When I can help facilitate a work environment based on equality and mindfulness, it's rewarding. Each time an attendee approaches me and thanks me for broadening their perspective or tells me that they feel encouraged, I feel accomplished. My reputation as a talented Training and Development Manager is my overall greatest accomplishment, and I continue to feel encouraged to do my job with absolute pride and enthusiasm."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Community Answer
"My Ph.D., my work on the law on making misogyny a hate crime, living in a different country, having a huge impact on how the city viewed gender safety, working with students on inclusion, and most importantly, my son."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Great answers!
Accomplishment
3.
Tell me about your most impactful training session.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see your passion for delivering impactful training sessions. Paint a picture for your interviewer of the best training you have ever facilitated. Talk about the highlights of the session and what you did to ensure it was a success. Be sure to give the interviewer a lot of context and detail around the overall situation. Lastly, explain how you were able to measure your success in the end.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In November, I was asked by Company ABC to lead a training session on diversity in the workplace. It was to be a series of classes offered to a variety of departments. I was a bit nervous as this was my first time leading multiple sessions on diversity and inclusion. As I planned the training session, I was also aware that most of the people in attendance were business professionals who were very passionate about the material. I decided to make the sessions very interactive and hands-on since I knew that these groups had a significant interest in the topics. I found the sensitivity of the subject matter to generate a lot of interest, and I facilitated the sessions with a lot of passion and personalization because I am very involved in human rights in my personal life and as a volunteer. I knew that this session was very impactful because the feedback I received in person and through my exit survey was very positive. The sessions went so well that I will be presenting the material to another group later this year."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Community Answer
"My most successful training session was actually as a Personal Trainer. I designed a program for one of my clients, which allowed her to lose 30 lbs and win the Transformation contest. I contribute to that success by setting a vision, setting small goals that aligned with that vision, and having a precise plan on how we would lose a certain amount of weight each week."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Excellent! You both must have been beaming with pride. Try touching a bit further on steps such as how often you met with her for coaching sessions, what you would do if there were a setback, etc.
Adaptability
4.
How do you adapt when you need to make last-minute changes to a training program?
How to Answer
As a Training and Development Manager, you will work closely with a company's greatest asset, which is their people! As you know, people require flexibility. When unexpected changes or events occur in an organization, you must be willing to pivot your training or materials to meet current needs.
Show the interviewer that you can embrace change. If possible, give an example of a time when you adapted and made last-minute changes to a program or session. Highlight the fact that you can stay positive and motivated while adapting.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Adaptability
5.
If you had to improve in one area of instruction or communication, what would it be?
How to Answer
When it comes to self-improvement, the interviewer wants to know that you desire professional growth and betterment. Think about one area of improvement you are actively working towards and explain what you are doing to achieve this goal. Since you are interviewing for the role of Training and Development Manager, it's wise to avoid any areas of improvement that could disqualify you for the position, such as being someone who finds it challenging to listen actively. Be sure to focus less on the weakness you want to improve and more on the steps or actions you take to improve.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Adaptability
6.
How do you know what teaching methods to use to ensure the best learning experience?
How to Answer
As a Training and Development Manager, you will need to design learning materials that appeal to a wide range of learning styles. Perhaps you get to know who the attendees are to know which learning modalities work best. The group may be hands-on, getting the most out of the interactive training sessions you prepare. Or maybe the group learns well through independent online training sessions where they take quizzes at the end of each module. Share how you adapt your training programs to individuals with varied learning styles and needs.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Adaptability
7.
What are your favourite tools to use when it comes to delivering employee training?
How to Answer
As a Training and Development Manager, you will likely have many tools of the trade that you lean on to build and deliver impactful programs. The interviewer would like to know which tools you utilize the most and why you rely on them for your work. Discuss your top choices, and explain how you use these tools and their impact on the delivery of your training. If you are unsure which resources will have access to while working in this particular role, be sure to ask. If you know the tools and resources used in this role, it's a good idea to discuss your level of familiarity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Behavioral
8.
Tell me about a time when you had to learn something new. What is your learning style?
How to Answer
As a Training and Development Manager, you like to challenge yourself and others to grow and continue learning. Think back to a time when you learned a helpful new skill. Perhaps you mastered a program that had been previously challenging your technical abilities. Maybe you took an online course to extend your post-secondary credentials. Think about how you adapted to the new material and what learning style you deployed to reach your goal.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Behavioral
9.
Tell me about a time that you had an issue with an employee during training. How did you approach and resolve the problem?
How to Answer
As a Training and Development Manager, you may encounter an employee or trainee who is unwilling to cooperate. The interviewer wants to see how you handle disputes and conflict in the workplace. Demonstrate that you can address issues as they arise without getting emotional or being disruptive to others. Show off your ability to keep your reactions professional while also honoring the policies and procedures of the company for whom you work.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Career Goals
10.
Why do you want a career as a Training and Development Manager?
How to Answer
If you love teaching and seeing results, the career path of a Training and Development Manager could be perfect for you! You will have the opportunity to instruct others on many career-optimizing topics that will help drive productivity, company profits, and employee success. You get to work behind the scenes, researching and planning, and then share your findings to benefit the performance of others. Share what you enjoy the most from your career, being sure to let your enthusiasm shine.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Compatibility
11.
How will your training and development skills positively impact our company and employees?
How to Answer
To answer this question with an impact, you must understand the pain points of the hiring organization. Think about the ways you can positively impact the company and its employees through your training sessions.
Take a moment to reflect on the qualities that have helped you be a successful Training and Development Manager. Show that you are observant and ready to deliver the training material they need the most. Highlight the fact that you are strategic in your planning and that you design programs that help the company and the employees accomplish these essential goals in tandem. Discuss your most important related strengths and how they will help you add value should you be hired.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Compatibility
12.
What qualities do you believe make an excellent Training and Development Manager?
How to Answer
Take some time to think of the top three to five characteristics you believe a Training and Development Manager should possess. Think of some industry peers that you admire and the traits they possess. Or, think of the top characteristics that you have worked hard to develop. A talented Training and Development Manager will be proactive, a clear communicator, and have the innate ability to make others feel comfortable in a variety of learning environments. They are educators who can effectively motivate and inspire others. Share a few of the traits you believe to be most important and explain how you possess these essential characteristics.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Competency
13.
What challenges do you anticipate in this Training and Development Manager role? How will you meet those challenges?
How to Answer
New challenges will always be present when starting a new job. A career move can be challenging and exciting as it allows you to learn new skills and overcome challenges you haven't faced before. Discuss a couple of responsibilities present in this new role that will present a learning curve. Perhaps this new role requires you to learn the details of a new industry, and you know that it will take some time to adjust. Be honest with the interviewer about the challenges you expect to face; however, focus the bulk of your response on what you plan to do to meet these challenges.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Creative Thinking
14.
What factors do you believe are most valuable when it comes to training program design?
How to Answer
As a Training and Development Manager, you know that your programs must be useful and impact the employee and the company you support. The interviewer would like to see how you approach achieving these goals. Perhaps you work carefully to assess the core needs of the company and the desired outcome before building your program. Maybe creativity and learning based on positive reinforcement are at the core of your program design. Whatever your preferred approach, be ready to discuss how you implement best practices into your training and development programs.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Diligence
15.
How do you ensure that your employee training sessions are effective?
How to Answer
For a Training and Development Manager, the success of your sessions is often attached to the improvements that you can help deliver. Your training sessions should focus on how well you can improve a company's pain point or provide a much-needed impact. Considering that a lot of your work is measurable, the interviewer would like to know how you ensure that you are making an impact. Explain how you assess your influence, whether it be by asking for feedback, providing surveys, or attending follow-up meetings with your leadership team.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Diligence
16.
How do you keep up with new developments and trends in employee training and development?
How to Answer
Your job is to maintain and increase productivity through employee development. As a leader, you have the opportunity to influence teams from the inside, using your expertise to implement and change programs to help employees do their jobs and meet company expectations. Share what you are doing to continue learning and growing in your industry knowledge.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Diligence
17.
How do you keep employees engaged during a training?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are the type of Training and Development Manager skilled at taking potentially dull material and bringing it to life for the attendees. Part of keeping employees engaged during a training session could also mean that you can take complex information and simplify it to make the attendees want to pay attention to you and learn. Share some tips that have helped you keep the crowd interested, regardless of the topic!
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Diligence
18.
What steps do you take to prepare for a training session?
How to Answer
Explain the steps you take to ensure that your training session covers all the required material and meets company stakeholder expectations. The first step to preparing could be researching the topic or using assessments to understand current knowledge gaps. You might take some time to evaluate and outline the objectives of your training session. Walk the interviewer through your process of discovery and organization, being as specific as possible.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Direct
19.
Why do you want to work for our company as our next Training and Development Manager?
How to Answer
'Why do you want to work here' is a question asked in nearly every structured job interview. When you craft your response, keep in mind that the interviewer wants to see evidence of a few factors:
- You have enthusiasm and interest in the role and company.
- You believe in the company's mission and values.
- You are ready to make a specific contribution.
- You see a strong match between the job and your career goals.
This question is often confused with, 'Why should we hire you.' The difference between these two questions is very subtle; however, an answer to 'Why should we hire you' tends to be more self-focused. A response to 'Why do you want to work here' tends to be more company-focused. Be sure to carefully listen to the question and answer it directly and distinctly.
Before your interview, do ample research on the company. Take notes while you review their website. Watch videos and learn about their history and their mission. Impress the interviewer by sharing how impressed you were by a recent award they won or discuss how great it is to give back to the community through service projects.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Experience
20.
What kind of training materials have you developed from scratch? What was the content, and how was the content delivered?
How to Answer
Training and Development Managers create training materials to help employees boost their workplace performance while developing new skills to help them in their careers. They may produce online modules or work alongside their company's Human Resources team to develop handbooks or in-class training for onboarding new employees. Talk about the training materials you have created, whether they were online programs or PowerPoint presentations delivered in-person. You could discuss your favored formats and some of the most impactful training you have provided in the past.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Experience
21.
Walk me through your experience in facilitating adult education.
How to Answer
Since Training and Development Managers spend quite a bit of time instructing others, the interviewer would like to get a better idea of your hands-on teaching experience. Briefly describe your work history using the Past, Present, Future framework.
- Past: Provide an overview of your education and early experience in facilitating adult education.
- Present: Discuss your current work as it relates to adult education.
- Future: Talk about your career aspirations in career education and how this future opportunity is a fit.
When you frame your response using the Past, Present, Future method, it helps you keep your thoughts on track, allowing you to deliver a well-organized answer with impact. If it feels more natural to you, you can also frame your answer as Present, Past, Future.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Job Satisfaction
22.
What do you enjoy most about leading employee training and development efforts?
How to Answer
For those who love to teach and train others, it is inspiring to be involved in employee training and development efforts. As a Training and Development Manager, you likely have a passion for Human Resources and Adult Education. Discuss the fact that you enjoy working with people and helping them cultivate their strengths. Perhaps you love using your analytical skills when designing new training programs. Maybe your favorite focus is on team building and encouraging others. Share what you find to be the most fulfilling when leading employee training and development efforts. Be sure to express your excitement for this particular role as well!
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Leadership
23.
What are your favorite approaches for motivating others?
How to Answer
As a Training and Development Manager, a significant part of your job is to keep your trainees excited about the material you are delivering. In this role, you will spend a lot of time motivating people to improve their work performance and reach their optimum performance levels. Share the ways that you increase motivation and boost morale. Be sure to show a lot of enthusiasm for the critical role that you play as a Training and Development Manager.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Performance Based
24.
How do you track and monitor the impact of your training sessions?
How to Answer
There are many different ways you can monitor your performance and impact as a Training and Development Manager. You can use online assessments and features within a software program tailored to the goals of your training or program. You can host weekly meetings where you discuss what is working and what needs improvement. You could also ask for feedback in the form of a survey. Share some of the tools and methods that you have found the most helpful for tracking and monitoring the impact of your training sessions.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Scenario Based
25.
Give me an example of an effective employee training method that you like to use.
How to Answer
Training sessions certainly do not need to be boring! Show the interviewer that you can think outside of the box and get creative in your training sessions. When you create an exciting learning environment, the attendees will connect with you as an instructor, and they are more likely to absorb the information you are delivering. Give an example of an employee training you provided that made an impact. Discuss the factors that caused your delivery to succeed, allowing the interviewer to picture your work in action.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Scenario Based
26.
Have you ever received negative feedback after an employee training session? If so, how did you respond?
How to Answer
After a busy day of meetings, presentations, and answering employee questions, the last thing you want to hear is negative feedback. However, negative feedback can be beneficial if you learn how to implement the information correctly. As a Training and Development Manager, you know it's essential to regularly improve training materials. By applying the information you receive in constructive feedback, you can be on top of your program offerings. Discuss with the interviewer how you sort through any criticism and how you apply it to improve your work performance.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Scenario Based
27.
Have you ever trained a group of your superiors? If so, how did you approach the situation?
How to Answer
Even though it can be intimidating to train managers or supervisors, the more you prepare, the more confident you will feel. Describe a situation that gives examples of how you prepared and explain how the managers responded to the training.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Scenario Based
28.
Tell me about a time when you had to modify and improve a training program. What was the impact?
How to Answer
The interviewer is assessing your ability to make impactful changes to a training session. Think of a time when you put your spin on existing training materials to improve the content delivery, the overall content messaging, or how the attendees received the content. Be sure to include details of how your modifications improved the program overall.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Stress
29.
How do you manage stress in the workplace?
How to Answer
As a Training and Development Manager, part of your role may focus on helping employees develop needed skills for the workplace, such as healthy stress management. The interviewer would like to know that you handle stress well and practice the foundations you teach others. Discuss the tools and resources that you lean on to help navigate stress in your work environment.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021
Teamwork
30.
How do you plan to build stable relationships with your new team members?
How to Answer
Making connections with new team members can be challenging. It can be an intimidating task; however, as a Training and Development Manager, your success often hinges on the healthy connections you can create. Talk to the interviewer about how you find common ground with others in the workplace. Show that you have strong leadership skills and that you appreciate the fact that you must make genuine connections to deliver impact.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 16th, 2021