Career insights: What does a corporate trainer do?

I'm exploring careers and came across corporate training. What exactly does a corporate trainer do, and what background is typically needed to enter this field? Is it a good fit for someone interested in education?

A corporate trainer is essentially an educator, but within a company or organization setting. They're responsible for teaching a variety of skills and knowledge to employees. This includes training for new hires, ongoing professional development, and specialized training for particular roles or projects.

On any given day, a corporate trainer might lead workshops, create or update training manuals, administer tests, or assess employees' performance and needs. They may also be responsible for setting up and administering an organization's Learning Management System (LMS). They often work closely with department heads and managers to ensure that their training programs meet an organization's goals and objectives.

The corporate trainer's role can vary considerably depending on the size and type of the organization. For instance, in smaller businesses, one trainer might handle all training aspects. In contrast, in larger corporations, there could be a whole team of trainers, each specializing in different areas such as IT, sales, or customer service.

Regarding the background needed to enter the field: corporate trainers often hold bachelor's degrees in fields like human resources, education, or business. Many people in this role also have experience in a specific field like technology, customer service, or management, and use that experience to inform their training. Good communication, leadership, and organizational skills are also crucial. Additionally, some trainers may hold certifications from organizations like the Association for Talent Development or the Society for Human Resource Management, which can bolster their expertise and professional standing.

Being a corporate trainer could be a good fit for someone interested in education, especially if they're excited about adult learning, team building, professional development, and helping others succeed. It's essentially a teaching role, but in a corporate setting rather than a traditional classroom.