If I'm a trainer, I'm doing it in four simple steps: 1) I do it. 2) I do it, you watch. 3) You do it, I watch. 4) You do it.

Talking Points:

  • Training someone to do something can be hard work. A lot of the time you may find your efforts don’t quite work. That’s why you should use the four corners method to train anyone to do anything.
    • I Do It. In order to train someone to do something you also have to be able to do it. It should be something you excel at. If you don’t really know how to do it yourself there is no way someone else will learn how to do it from you.
    • I Do it, You Watch. This step is where the foundation of understanding starts. Have whoever you are training watch you complete the task. Try to explain to them your process in a reproducible way.
    • You Do it, I Watch. This is the step where the trainee gets their shot at the task. Observe them during this step. If you notice they are doing something incorrectly instruct them on the proper process.
    • You Do It. If you reach this step then you have successfully trained someone. At this point, the trainee knows how to do the task correctly and efficiently. They will one day be able to train someone else.
Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. Have you ever tried to train someone before? What was the outcome?
  3. In your opinion what is the hardest part about training someone in a new task? Why?
  4. Why is each corner important to adequately train someone? How can this method help you moving forward? 
  5. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?