Need advice from people who do training

[MrsMuddle]

As part of my job, I sometimes have to do a day's training to groups of people. I am quite confident in the actual subject, and over time, I have got over my fear of standing up and talking while trying to sound knowledgable.

The training is related to disability, so usually the delegates are from various organisations and don't know each other.

However, I also have to deliver internal training, and this is where I have a problem. A couple of weeks ago I did two days training for people who knew each other well - close colleagues in some cases. There were a couple of people who chatted constantly, and I didn't know what to say to stop them without sounding like a teacher.

I'm doing another internal course tomorrow, and I want to know how to deal with the situation if it arises again.

I know this is a really silly problem, but because I'm not a full-time trainer, I don't know how I should handle this. TIA

Bump

It is difficult. After years of training I still hate delivering to people I know!

However. I think you need to do "housekeeping" at the beginning of the session.

Make sure they know where the loos are, when the breaks are and ask them to turn off mobiles etc, etc. Then at the end of the chat mention that if they have a question they should ask you, if they want to discuss a topic. Discussing between themselves is distracting for others etc. See how that goes?

If not just do what I do and say:
"Excuse me, do you want to discuss this topic?" "If you have a question perhaps we can all join the discussion?" A bit school mistress but effective in the right tone.

Thanks. That's what I thought, but I find it hard to get the right tone - I know it will come out sounding shrill and prim.

You've confirmed that I shouldn't just ignore it, though.

Thanks for your input.

The trick I use is, when you get annoyed by the chatting, to stop talking and stand silently till they stop. When all is quiet, smile at them and continue. Sometimes at this point I ask "Did you have a question?".

You won't sound like a teacher but they, and everyone else in the room will get the point.