Training Professionalism and Motivation

DOE-HDBK-1114-98

3.1 Training Professionalism and Motivation

Training enhances professionalism by establishing role models and by emphasizing manager

expectations. The training organization can support the line manager and encourage professionalism

by several different activities.

Training personnel should serve as role models for trainees by exhibiting a high level of professionalism

in their personal conduct, appearance, and motivation in every training setting. Such behavior

enhances performance throughout the facility. The training staff should constantly help to motivate the

trainees and reinforce their desire to achieve learning goals. If trainees perceive a need to learn, they

will be motivated to achieve that goal.

The training staff should reflect the standards and expectations held by line management. Instructors

should conduct training according to clear standards of performance and behavior. Instructors should

let the trainees know what is expected of them and hold them to those expectations. They should

emphasize pride of ownership for the training and clarify the method for performing tasks correctly.

Line management involvement in training activities should be encouraged by requesting that line

supervisors periodically attend training with assigned personnel. Middle and senior management should

be encouraged to participate in, as well as observe training. Managers and supervisors should provide

feedback on training program improvements and should be shown the results of their input.

A sense of ownership of training programs should be fostered by both the training staff and line

managers. In addition, the facility should have clear, well-understood goals that establish the

importance and relevance of training. If training does not reflect what personnel need to know in the

facility, the credibility and the effectiveness of training programs are damaged.

Training managers should recognize and acknowledge superior performance of personnel as it relates

to training. If a trainee has performed above expectations, let others know about it. Recognizing this

effort through course completion certificates, awards, or letters of recognition/appreciation can foster a

sense of accomplishment in personnel. Similarly, superior performance of personnel developing,

conducting, and evaluating training should be recognized and acknowledged.

3.2 Career Development of the Training Staff

Training managers should encourage the professional development of the training staff by providing

growth opportunities that include periodic objective-based assignments to line organizations during

routine operations and maintenance periods. Assignments for short duration in line organizations may

enhance the professional background and credibility of training personnel and strengthen

communications between line and training organizations.

Each member of the training staff must maintain credibility and should be a positive, professional role

model for line personnel to emulate. For this reason, the training staff should be carefully chosen;

experienced performers with the potential for career growth in the organization.