30 Training and Development Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Training and Development Manager interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our 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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I adapt well in last-minute situations. Working with people means that there are no promises on how my day will go. This reality is one that I learned early on in my career. My job is about the programs that I develop, but it's also about responding in a humanistic manner to the people that I teach. Sometimes this approach means taking a new direction. For instance, last month, I was due to facilitate a training session on stress management in the workplace. The evening before, there was an unexpected death in the company. The team experienced a tough emotional blow. I changed the training session last minute to focus on grief, loss, and bereavement. I turned the session into a support group because it was more important to deal with the loss of a colleague and friend than it was to follow the schedule that I previously had in mind. The session was helpful, and it's what the team needed. The job of a Training and Development Manager is also about supporting people, which means that I need to meet them where their needs are, rather than always sticking to a plan. I must show that I can accommodate others, which sets a good example of authentic leadership."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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Working with people means that there are no promises on how my day will go. This reality is one that I learned early on in my career. My job is about the programs that I develop, but it's also about responding in a humanistic manner to the people that I teach. Sometimes this approach means taking a new direction. For instance, last month I had an agenda for a team meeting to discuss our next year's strategy but noticed morale seemed low as many were burnt out. I decided to switch gears to open dialogue about how they were feeling and focus on team bonding in that moment rather than an agenda. This allowed everyone to feel heard and receptive to discussing business plans."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am currently working on my ability to be a stronger leader. A lot of my training sessions focus on improving the performance of our corporate-level executives, so powerful leaders often surround me. I recently attended a leadership conference to help me cultivate some of my bolder leadership traits. Here, I learned how to be a more effective leader by taking the initiative in larger groups. I value these learning opportunities and look forward to surrounding myself with other leaders who also want to challenge themselves to grow professionally."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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I am also a runner and have put together a new training plan for a race that I, at present, is beyond my ability. I want to do this race, so I've set out a plan that is whole body-oriented to prepare for the event."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"Typically, I take a student-centered approach to training because this approach almost always leads to a very positive experience for the attendee. Of course, my approach may change based on my leadership team's learning objectives and goals. If the sessions are delivered online, the best learning experience will come from a wide range of multimedia to ensure the information is appealing and informative while moving at a visually interesting pace. If the training is in a classroom or seminar setting, I will use visual aids and physical activities such as role-playing and team-building challenges. I take into consideration if the work is primarily solo or more interactive. Overall, my approach to teaching is interactive, encouraging, and human-centered."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have recently focused my attention on web-based learning by utilizing the Rise platform. This program is useful for delivering online training to employees and helps me to ensure that the learning materials are accessible in one place. Rise allows me to perform webinars, build programs, and clearly outline learning objectives. I find this resource incredibly easy to manage, and it allows me to make edits that the attendees can see in real-time. I understand from the job posting that your organization also uses Rise, and I would love to learn more about the ways that your organization leverages this robust platform."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I learn by researching and collecting information. Then, I practice my new skill through repetitive performance. For instance, I have begun creating training modules in an online learning portal for my current team. I have also taught myself how to do live webinars, which allows me to reach and educate more team members without location-based limitations. To make this happen, I attended virtual classes and learned the programs required to organize and build these online offerings. As a Training and Development Manager, I am thrilled that I get to learn new skills every day. I tackle each opportunity from a 'student' point of view and not as an expert. By approaching life as a learner, I open myself up to new perspectives and opportunities every day."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"Last month, I was delivering an employee workshop related to diversity and inclusion. One of the attendees was very rude to me and even interrupted my class multiple times to crack inappropriate jokes. I stopped the class and asked all of the attendees to take a 10-minute break. I requested that the disruptive individual stay behind, along with the HR Partner who was present. We told the individual that they would be written up for insubordination and that the formal report would be submitted to their direct supervisor later that day. Then, we sent this person home for the day. The remainder of the workshop went perfectly. After the training, a few group members even thanked us for recognizing the issue and nipping it in the bud. They let us know that this person's negativity impacted their ability to absorb the information I was providing. It was not easy for me to remove the individual from the situation, as I always want to give people the benefit of the doubt. However, given that the company had been struggling with toxic behavior in the workplace, I felt my response was appropriate."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I thoroughly enjoy teaching and instructing. I thrive on finding new ideas and creative ways to present the learning material. I also enjoy being in a leadership role, helping other individuals to grow and improve. I like the challenges that come with each new training and development program. Overall, one of the most enjoyable factors for me is planning, researching, and learning. Once I find out what the company stakeholders are looking for from me as an instructor and the results they are looking for the employees to achieve from my training, I see it as a challenge to exceed all expectations. When I can have fun, learn, develop team-building skills, and help people with their communication strategies, it's gratifying. My career as a Training and Development Manager has been incredibly rewarding."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"From my understanding, your company is expanding its number of remote workers, and one of your greatest needs is to build a virtual employee learning portal. I have built and delivered several programs online, both in the form of pre-recorded webinars and self-guided online curriculums. I also understand that your industry is very high-stress, and your employees are under a great amount of pressure. I believe it's critical to address topics such as stress management. I have delivered training sessions during employee retreats focused on mindfulness and dealing with stress in the workplace. I will be able to build a fantastic program for your employees focused on building better ongoing support when it comes to mental health, stress management, and mindfulness practices. My background in HR and communications make me a unique asset in the sense that I have a full understanding of what it takes to support employee needs while aligning them with company goals."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"There are many qualities and skills that a successful Training and Development Manager should bring. These include being well-organized, enjoying research, and possessing the ability to multi-task. This takes organization and a great deal of discipline, which I have proven to have in my current position. A Training and Development Manager must always show empathy and be patient with others while actively listening to their learning needs. They should also be strong communicators who are direct and honest. This open communication includes being able to give and receive feedback freely. I work hard always to give solid direction with clear expectations."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have worked with management teams as large as 15, and I understand that your leadership team has 25 members. For that reason, I anticipate that the most significant initial challenge will be learning the unique leadership styles of your entire management team. As with any HR-related position, people-related challenges are the most difficult to navigate because everyone has unique character and personality traits. Leading leaders is difficult, but I will meet the challenge by reminding them that we need support and opportunities to grow no matter who we are. The purpose of my role as a Training and Development Manager is to challenge the development and growth of others and help leaders to optimize their job performance. I will provide the encouragement that they need while presenting them with engaging and meaningful continued learning opportunities."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe many valuable factors contribute to training program design with organization and preparation being the most important. I am sure to plan enough activities to keep the attendees interested, and I prepare for any questions that may arise during the session. Another critical factor is to have a lot of visuals and hands-on activities built into the program. There are many moving parts for me as a Training and Development Manager, and I must have backup plans in the event of a technical hiccup or unexpected problem with participation. I must also be very familiar with the material so that if issues occur, I can continue delivering the message without interruption."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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Basically: planning, organizing, evaluation, initiatives, motivation, follow-up, and goal setting."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"To ensure that a training session is effective, I begin by setting goals for each training session. For instance, if my company would like to improve the workplace environment, I would first meet with the leadership team to discover the greatest pain points and their expectations from the training. After each session, I gather feedback from the attendees and their supervisors, when applicable. I have various feedback forms to follow up and ask if there are any areas where the materials could be improved. I also perform staggered follow-ups to ensure that the training has made a longer-term impact on the attendees. This impact might include improvements to their job performance or a transformation in the workplace environment. When employees walk away feeling more confident in their knowledge and willing to put it into action, I know that they learned from the training."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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I will also be in close contact with the community leaders and the mentors to receive feedback. I am also a great believer in the open door policy, and so Health coaches will be welcome to give me feedback or ask for extra help as needed."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I keep up with trends and new developments by keeping in close contact with other Training and Development Managers that I know and trust. Together, we discuss current trends and creative ideas that will help us to accomplish our goals as instructors. The world of instruction and adult education is always improving. For that reason, I lean on a variety of online resources such as blogs and podcasts. I also follow Forbes Magazine and subscribe to LinkedIn Learning, which allows me to remain in the know while also training myself on new skills related to teaching and educating others. I am always open to learning new resources if you have any specific recommendations."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have developed a good sense of humor and can level with people quickly. I like to quickly sort the group dynamics and get to know the different personalities in the group so that I can lead the class with ease. I try to be as entertaining as possible, even when I'm teaching a technical topic. I keep my sessions interactive by involving everyone in group discussions and using videos to help explain the material in a way that is interesting and easy to understand."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"Any training session begins with planning and research. This foundation usually means a lot of time on my computer researching job functions, industry trends, and new approaches to corporate training. I use questionnaires and checklists from department managers and supervisors to gather all of the learning objectives before I begin to craft a curriculum. When I prepare for a training session, I also consider the training budget, session location, and class size. I figure out which tech tools will be available to me, such as projectors, computers, and sound equipment. Once the stakeholders approve the training materials, I do a final round of edits and create visual materials for the attendees. In my current role, I have a part-time assistant who helps with other activities such as catering and other provisions."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I want to be your Training and Development Manager for many reasons. The most personal and compelling are that your organization is top-rated in the USA when it comes to presenting ongoing learning opportunities for your employees. I have spent a lot of time researching and getting to know your organization. I found that your leaders focus on immersing employees in tech-based learning tools to keep them engaged in their roles and continue growing into new career opportunities. This partnership would be mutually beneficial, as my teaching passions include learning through the joy of growth and teamwork. I advocate for employee mental health, and I believe that tech-based learning is the cornerstone of modern workplace education. Should you choose to hire me, I plan to contribute to your training program by being an active member of the work community. I will continue to build my knowledge of modern education and the tech-based learning tools that are so prominent in your organization."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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The most personal and compelling are that your organization aligns my passion for people and education with a purpose. I believe in making a better world for pets as they make a better world for us. Their well-being comes first! I have seen the impact that pets had on my life and want to be a part of a mission that promotes their well-being and the healing that their unconditional love brings. In this next chapter of my career, I am very intentional with pursuing opportunities that provide the ability to make an impact and expand my influence in the organization and community. I have spent a lot of time researching and getting to know your organization and inherently align with your core values. I am customer-centric and believe that we have a responsibility to our consumers to provide the quality and service that they seek and deserve. I understand that you have recently migrated to Workday and am familiar with some of the capabilities that are offered for providing the opportunity for employees to stretch and grow in ways that promote better employee engagement.
I believe our partnership will be mutually beneficial in providing me an opportunity to pursue my goals while helping your organization achieve yours."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have developed training modules from scratch on topics such as workplace performance, stress-management in the workplace, new employee onboarding programs, and diversity and inclusion programs. Most recently, I created a program on workplace stress and stress management. The program was a four-part series that touched on work/life balance, how to schedule time effectively, how to use a variety of time-management tools, and how to deal with stress professionally. I am especially proud of this program because it teaches healthy communication skills that the attendees can implement at work and in their personal life. The program also addresses career goals and how they should match professional goals. The majority of the program is delivered inside the classroom setting with some virtual exercises that the participants can keep confidential. The modules are available online if the participant is unable to attend the in-person training. Developing a course of this nature takes a lot of research and planning. I am very please with how it turned out, and I have received a great deal of positive feedback, which makes me proud."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"After graduating with my bachelor's degree in Human Resources, I joined a community center on contract, as an adult educator. There, I taught life skills classes to disabled adults through local community centers. These classes taught computer literacy, resume writing, and other career-related skills. Over the last eight years, I worked for a variety of companies on contract, delivering training sessions that focus on improving diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Most recently, I have been developing a program from scratch for a company's HR department. This program focuses on making an impact on full-cycle recruitment and onboarding processes. Once my management team approves the final program, it will be delivered both in-person and virtually to human resource professionals across their company. Now, as I wrap up this project, I am looking for a new opportunity to continue teaching and instructing adults in a business setting."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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I enjoyed doing that presentation because it was for a group of supervisory personnel who did not know what the Skills Development Act was. They did not have a clue about NQF levels.
At the end of the presentation, they could identify where they were in terms of their skills and what they needed to learn to go further.
Furthermore, they understood how to develop their subordinates to make their work more effective and injury-free."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"There are so many challenges that come with being a Training and Development Manager, and I love that no day is the same. I am passionate about my work and the fact that I get to teach, impact others, and learn new topics every day. I may be the teacher, but the attendees of my sessions also teach me regularly. I love facilitating an environment where people are inspired to grow and flourish. I like to mentor staff and help them to develop their leadership and communication styles. Supporting others is very exciting, and I get to do so by coming up with new ideas to approach a significant range of subjects. I am ready and eager to support your staff in any capacity that I can."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"Positive reinforcement is my favorite way of motivating others. I try to find out at least one great thing about each person in my class and encourage them on that particular positive trait. I can find out this information by meeting with the employee's direct manager to get a sense of which skills are strong and which skills need further development. Seeing the good in others is a safe way to help them feel comfortable and to build trust. It's also important that I understand their goals to have a target in mind when we begin our training. I enjoy encouraging others by reminding them of their strengths and their goals. It can be easy to get discouraged when you're working in a demanding, stressful work environment. I keep my trainees engaged and focused by praising their good work."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I create online programs, I set them up in a software program that performs a great deal of automated tracking. This software keeps detailed records of each students' progress, including where they power through the content and where they seem to slow down and struggle. With these tracking capabilities, I can see when student progress slows, allowing me to encourage them when needed. When I teach in-class workshops or sessions, I use feedback forms to check in with the students periodically. These forms allow me to receive feedback and adjust the material as needed. I will always follow up with a student post-session and support them if they need additional coaching. Another way of tracking the impact of my training sessions is to meet with the employees' manager to discuss if the goals and expectations of the training were met, exceeded, or fell short."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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I have also used assessments, which depending on the setting, are conducted quarterly. Working with a team for three months only, the assessments are more casual and are undertaken monthly to keep my finger on the pulse."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I worked with Company ABC, I delivered a full-day session on the topic of eliminating workplace bullying and harassment. At the beginning of my session, I began with a team-building exercise. I had this large group of 100 attendees form small groups of 10, where they completed a variety of game-based learning objectives. Once the team building was accomplished and the attendees were more comfortable, I asked people to start responding to various questions that addressed acceptable and unacceptable workplace behavior. I dove into the content with a multimedia approach and used eye-catching visuals, told stories, and presented interesting statistics. I also offered snacks, beverages, and frequent breaks to avoid fatigue or disinterest. I created a safe and interesting environment where each team member could learn, connect, and grow. The team was highly engaged by using positive and encouraging teaching methods, and the company noticed a marked improvement in workplace inclusivity in the weeks following the sessions."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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It usually requires more than just memorization to do well. I see the value of these methods when people can practice their skills more analytically than just answering a question or filling in a blank."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have had negative feedback in the past where I feel a little sting of hurt. It's never easy to receive negative comments; however, I will always consider it if the input is helpful and honest. I have learned to filter through feedback, listen to what is constructive, and then remove the rest so that I do not develop any emotion towards it. I use feedback as an opportunity to improve. Rather than taking feedback personally, I ask questions to understand further how I could do improve. I'm proactive about implementing changes in my training programs and am happy to identifying weaknesses so that the programs are as impactful as possible."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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I appreciate the feedback on my training programs, positive and negative, as the negative identify weaknesses upon which I improve to meet better and serve the needs of those I train."
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"Our company was switching to new enterprise software, and I asked to train the management team after learning how to use the system. I prepared a presentation and printed out handouts for everyone to follow along. I tried to make the information easy to understand by using informative but not too technical terminology. I also had everyone divide into groups to try out what they were learning firsthand. Even though I was training some more experienced managers, I came so well prepared that I wasn't nervous about delivering the training. I received compliments on my approach, and the leadership team asked me to facilitate the next training."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"Last year, I was asked to improve and then perform a training session with our frontline workers on the signs of PTSD and available treatments. Frontline workers face trauma every day, and it can take a toll on their well-being. I knew the existing material was heavy, and I wanted to find ways to lighten up the delivery while still keeping the right tone regarding the serious topic of PTSD. I decided to add a few team-building exercises and improv exercises where the attendees would get a hypothetical situation, and they needed to act out how they would approach the issue. It was amazing to see how quickly the attendees jumped into the role play and how they supported each other when one person felt 'stuck' with what to do or how to respond. In the end, my leadership team was impressed with how I added my style to the existing material. When the subject matter is serious, it's okay to add a lighter component to put the attendees at ease and help them feel more comfortable with opening up during the sessions."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I instruct courses on handling stress in the workplace, so I must practice the principles that I instruct. I keep a journal of my stressors, and then I plan to deal with each situation. This journaling approach helps me prepare a response ahead of time when I find myself in a stressful situation. If something new arises in the workplace, I add it to my stressor journal and then research ways to handle the situation. I am highly analytical, so I like to evaluate, rationalize, and then develop healthy ways to solve the problem. I also use mindfulness apps such as Calm, which offers guided meditations that I can utilize when I have a few moments to myself."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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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 Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
Answer Example
"I plan to build stable relationships by being authentic and showing genuine excitement when it comes to getting to know everyone on the team. When meeting a new group, I go slow and earn their trust. I focus on delivering respect to others, and I offer them the chance to get to know me on a deeper level. As an experienced Training and Development Manager, I have met hundreds of professionals throughout my career. Over this time, I've learned to adapt and work harmoniously with all kinds of personalities. I like to get to know everyone and learn as much as I can from them about the job and their expectations. This way, I can do my best to personalize their experience in my training sessions."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 16th, 2021
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I also make an effort to introduce myself to everyone and spend a little extra time getting to know the people I will be working with directly better, building relationships there."
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