Class Tips

I'm in the process of revising some management workshops and have been thinking about what makes for a successful class.

These are some guidelines that I've followed over the years:

• Keep it as short as possible. Don't pad the material. It is far better to have students leave a little hungry for additional information than to see them stagger out thinking, "I've heard more about this topic than I ever wanted to hear."
• Gauge the level of the class to the average student. That will permit you to word the presentation in a way that will connect with the more knowledgeable students while giving reviews at other points to bring aboard students who are having trouble. Avoid talking down to people. Students will prefer having to stretch as opposed to being subjected to condescension.
• Use real and memorable case examples. Students want practical information that is easy to understand and which can be put to immediate use. Case examples that can be discussed and debated in the course of the class directly appeal to the desire for realistic and practical information. Never present theory without giving a practical application.
• Keep up the pace. Make the program exciting and engaging. It doesn't need to be a fireworks demonstration but the class should sense your passion for the topic. If you're not interested in it, why should they be?
• Recognize that you may not please everyone. Teach a class on supervision and some participants will tell you that time management is the topic of greatest interest and others will tell you it is the least. A fast pace and fresh perspectives will ensure that everyone comes along - and stays - for the ride.
• If possible, poll the participants on the questions they want addressed and then make sure that all of their questions are answered in the course of the program.
• Keep your slides to a minimum. Few things are worse than PowerPoint overload. If the program is for a small group, consider not using PowerPoint at all. Just use a white board or a flip chart.
• Give lots of breaks. It's far better to give a short break every hour than a huge break every two and one-half hours. When you announce breaks, use odd numbers. People will pay more attention to the time.
• Permit people to ask questions throughout the presentation. It is much better to deal with topics while they are fresh.
• Constantly review the quality. Ask yourself: How can I make this clearer? Go over your material again and again prior to the presentation.
• Recognize the burden is on you to give an interesting presentation. This means preparation and more preparation. There can be a fine line between a successful class and a so-so one. Preparation makes all the difference.
• Be flexible. Mistakes will occur. Equipment will break down. Material may get lost. Some class members may be weird. You can handle all of that with flexibility, good judgment, and a sense of humor. The audience will be on your side. Don't lose them.
• Have fun. Make sure the substance is there, but be sure to inject some dry humor. It is an essential ingredient.