Selecting a trainer can be fairly easy when an organization has a large, multifaceted training staff with the competencies and subject matter expertise to train in high demand areas. Training competency involves the knowledge and varied skills needed to design and implement a training program. Effective trainers must be able to communicate their knowledge clearly, use various instructional techniques, have good interpersonal skills, and the ability to motivate others to learn.

Subject matter expertise refers to the mastery of subject matter. However, subject-matter expertise alone does not guarantee an individual will be an effective trainer—many make poor trainers. Individuals who lack the ability to design and implement effective training programs may rely too heavily on a single method of instruction that may be inappropriate for the subject matter. The purpose of train-the-trainer programs is to provide subject matter experts (SMEs) with the necessary instructional knowledge and skills to design and implement a training program.

Some organizations design their own train-the-trainer programs, which can be desirable when there is a constant demand for skilled or technical trainers, or when employers want to emphasize a particular training technique. When it is not possible to design a train-the-trainer program, some organizations have developed training manuals that include these various components of the design and implementation process. A lesson plan is a trainer’s guide for the actual delivery of training content. Creating a lesson plan requires the trainer to determine in advance what is to be covered and how much time to devote to each part of the session.