In-Demand Instructional Communication Competencies for Organizational Trainers

Abstract

An analysis of surveys ( N = 143) and interviews ( n = 34) with human resources and talent development professionals suggest respondents desired corporate trainers who were competent communicators—who could deliver content effectively in an engaging manner. Nonacademic trainers and subject-matter experts (SMEs) were often perceived as less adept at presenting complex material than academics who were considered SMEs in their fields and in the practice of teaching. Based on these findings, we recommend communication academics who desire to train in organizational settings market their expertise in instructional communication to training managers and SMEs seeking professional development.