Seeing a massive surge in popularity over recent years, virtual training is still a major component in many business models. But does hosting a virtual training event feel more like learning a new language than actually engaging with your audience or imparting a smooth learning experience? Technical issues, unengaged participants, and communication obstacles hinder an enriching learning experience for attendees. 

Well here’s good news for all the training professionals! We have curated a list of the common challenges faced while hosting virtual training sessions along with simple solutions that can help you avoid the common pitfalls and create a successful learning journey for your team.

Challenge #1

Technical Glitches

Some of the most obvious challenges faced while hosting virtual training sessions are technical issues such as poor audio/video quality, connection issues, platform/software failures, integration failures, compatibility issues, etc. Despite careful planning, technical issues can unexpectedly arise and quickly turn an event into a failure.

Solution

Be Tech Ready

Pre-rehearse the presentation including videos using your preferred platform and tools to troubleshoot easily detectable issues.

Choose a powerful platform such as Zoom, Webex, Teams or Meet that offers robust software, enhanced experiences and simplified management.

Use a wired connection or secure a strong Wi-Fi signal to avoid bandwidth issues during the session. Diagnose and fix any connectivity issues.

Have a comprehensive backup plan ready that includes equipment such as a microphone and presentation content documents.

Challenge #2

Low Engagement

It's a big challenge to keep participants motivated and engaged during online training. Just passively facing the screen and listening to someone speak for hours can lead to wandering attention spans, higher session dropout rates and poor performance.

Solution

Break the ice by beginning your online session with a quick online poll or collaborative brainstorming that gets everyone involved and curious.

Use interactive tools to make the presentation more of an immersive session rather than a PowerPoint. For eg: Q&A sessions, shared whiteboards to encourage real-time collaboration, creating a chat room/message board for participants to log in and discuss.

Challenge #3

Language Barriers

Language barriers are a common challenge for international businesses. If your team consists of members across the globe, communication can be a challenge.

Solution

Consider a multilingual option with a pre-recorded training session having subtitles or voice overs in different languages based on the participants’ requirements.

Use translation tools such as Google Translate, Microsoft Translator or Linguee, or partner with a translation service to offer live interpretation. On Zoom, participants can also choose to enable captions in real time and select the language they want to choose if the speech in a meeting or webinar is in a different language.

Participate in online discussions to practice your own language skills, ask questions and seek feedback.

Access training materials and support in your team's language through platforms like Lastminute Learning.

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Challenge #4

Keeping the Momentum Going Till the Very End

With motivation being in short supply, many attendees may not see the session to the end.

Solution

Partnering with a virtual event management company is like having a superhero who has your back!

They help you design and deliver an engaging experience to your attendees on a global scale by managing collaborative sessions such as classrooms, training sessions and workshops.

They manage every stage of the virtual training process, such as planning and preparing content, ensuring smooth delivery and providing post-session support.

They keep an eye on the chat room, troubleshoot any technical issues encountered during the program and even answer basic questions.

They handle behind-the-scenes tasks of the presentation such as advancing the slides, and muting or unmuting participants.

If the presenter faces any challenge, they can step in and take over to minimise disruption.

Transform your virtual training sessions to epic wins with these tips. Effective planning and preparation can help you navigate the session with confidence and deliver a smooth, effective and fun program!