1. "Do you limit the size of the class or workshop?" - Executive Training Resources understands that a large class is not conducive to a successful learning environment. Our large conference room allows for forty students although we limit the amount to under twenty. Our computer classroom comfortably holds ten students. For introductory or highly advanced courses, we usually limit the enrollment to no more than six.  Many programs allow unlimited enrollment - and so you might be disappointed to find yourself in a room with dozens (even hundreds) of other people. Beware: The bigger the training session, the less personal attention  you'll get.

2.   "Do you target specific skill levels?" - Some workshops lump all skill levels together. Executive Training Resources understands that you will have a much better learning experience if you can study with people who have similar experiences and are at the same knowledge level as you. We offer Introduction, Intermediate, and Advanced courses for most of our classes. We even have pre-tests you can take to be sure you are enrolled in the correct level. Economics are clear: It is simply more profitable to run a "one size fits all" seminar. But the truth is equally clear: A "one size fits all" seminar won't produce your best educational value. At ETR we target specific skill levels. You will walk away with good training - and a good value.

3. "Who will teach the seminar?" Large training firms use a variety of trainers, some of who may or may not be certified in the specific course they are teaching. Although ETR has a large number of trainers, many of them have been with us for ten years or more. Kathy Stewart, our Microsoft Word and PowerPoint expert, is just one of the favorite teachers here on staff. Rest assured that your teacher will be certified in their area of expertise and will provide you with the highest quality service available. With other companies, you might not know the identity of your trainer until you get to the classroom. Some firms sub-contract-meaning, if "Instructor A" isn't available, they might send "Instructor B." Make sure you don't get stuck with an inexperienced trainer or a last-minute substitute.

4. "Will the instructor's background match my needs?" Ask questions. Get a list of recent clients. Ask about the evaluations from previous class attendees. This is a great way to see how they approach their craft. Has this instructor actually worked in the field-or merely taught in the field? There's a world of difference- and you have a right to know. All of Executive Training Resources' instructors have ample classroom teaching experience and we gaurantee your satisfaction!

5. " Can I see some recommendations?" Tip: Look for specific names. Be leery of blurbs that do not list a source!  If you see something like, "This was a great conference" but the blurb is only identified as coming from " a manager" ...well,that's not a very credible reference. You want recommendations that come from prestigious organizations and well-respected people. Otherwise, you could be wasting your time and money. ETR is proud to share their list of satisfied customers and their comments. After each class, every student is asked to fill out an evaluation about the instructor, course content, our facility, and other pertinent information. We also encourage comments and suggestions. With thirteen specific items being rated on a scale of 1-5 (5 being excellent) our average score is a 4.89. Now that is satisfaction!

6. "Can I talk with the instructor prior to the class?" You deserve to ask any questions before registering for the workshop. ETR is happy to put you in touch with the instructor before you attend any of our training sessions. Make sure wherever you go that the trainers will make themselves available either by phone or email. The best instructors will provide pre-workshop questionnaires-and use this information to custom-design the workshop based on your needs. Most of our seminars have pre-tests and/or questionnaires to assure you are enrolled in the correct class based on your specific skill level. We are more than happy to send you the form at any time.

7. " What is included in my registration fee?" Does payment include breakfast and lunch-or must you pay for these meals on your own? Does the fee include any books or learning materials? At ETR your registration fee includes the course manual and a certificate of completion. We also have free coffee, water, and snacks. With so many nearby resturaunt options, Executive Training Resources has opted to keep costs down by not providing lunch. Our facility has a soda and snack vending machine. With a refridgerator and microwave, you are welcome to bring your own food and store it during class time.

8. "What is the agenda?" This can be a tricky area, so ask for specifics. For example, if the morning session runs from 9-12 noon, don't always assume you'll get 3 full hours of instruction. Some training companies take long breaks to sell books and tapes at the back of the room-causing you to lose important training time. Or, if a seminar spans two days, don't assume you'll get two full days of instruction. Some workshops end before lunch on the last day. Again, that's all lost learning time. Here at ETR we understand the value of your time and the value of the training. Many of our full-day courses are just that - 8:00 am thru 5:00 pm with 1 hour for lunch. We do provide several short 5-12 minute breaks throughout the day. But we don't waste your time selling books or tapes.

9. " Will the instructor be available to answer any questions I might have?" A good instructor will be glad to take your questions-even long after the workshop is over. Make sure you can count on direct access. It will prove worth its weight in gold. At ETR you will always receive your instructors' contact information, including their cell phone numbers.  Any questions? Call, and we will have your question answered within the hour!

Be sure to fully investigate any training company you choose. Don't be afraid to ask questions. It's your time, your money, and your education - it's worth it!

Contact Executive Training Resources at 208.525.8813 or etr@etrdirect.com