Originally posted on www.sendouts.com/blog

You’re a tech-savvy, multi-tasking machine, and that’s why I commend you for deciding to sit in on a training session with your ATS account manager.  You’re smart, because even though you know pretty much everything about your ATS, a little refresher course can’t hurt, right?

Ok, you’re probably groaning inside that you don’t have enough time to finishing going through your call list, much less sit through an hour of training.  But you bit the bullet and listened to that tiny voice in the back of your mind.  You know, the one telling you that maybe you could be working more efficiently.  Don't worry.  You can be confident that your ATS trainer wants to help you.  They don’t want to waste your time, or theirs.  Taking a few minutes to prepare for your ATS training will help you get the most out of your time.

3 Ways to Prepare for ATS Training

1.  Be aware of your level of expertise. Decide if you’re a newbie, a seasoned veteran, or somewhere in between.  This can help you determine what you want to get out of training.  Do you want to immerse yourself in the software just to get the feel, or have you been using the program for a while and have specific questions?

2.  Evaluate your use. Where are there disconnects in your work process?  What features do you neglect to use, and why?  Is it a matter of changing an old habit, or is it because your software doesn’t have the functionality you’re looking for?  Bring these issues to your trainer’s attention.  She can help you connect the dots and show you how you can use the software to its full potential.

3.  Get a fresh perspective. If you’ve had training with Sarah, consider scheduling training with Bill.  Everyone has their own cache of unique experiences, and no two trainers will present material in the exact same way.  Soliciting a new view is a great way to discover updated features or to learn a few short-cuts that will help you work more efficiently.

Take ownership of your training session.  Prepare to engage with your trainer and lead the conversation in a direction that will be the most beneficial to you.  Training is definitely worth your time when it results in a smarter, more efficient way to work.