Catherine Storer

20 years as operational manager and HR/training specialist in various sectors including retails, finance and insurance

What has been your most rewarding training experience?

Any training experience is rewarding because you are assisting people to realise their potential, but one of the best pieces of feedback I have had was a delegate who said that I had helped him ‘feel valuable again’

Any bizarre or amusing training stories?

Lots! I was training in the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. There were stadium tours being conducted at the same time, complete with stirring music. One delegate felt he should stand, head bowed, fist clasped over heart every time the Welsh National Anthem played (about 6 times a day!)

What made you want to become a trainer?

It’s in the blood. My parents were  both teachers, my sister is a lecturer…you get the picture!

What would you be if not a trainer?

An Oscar winning actress!

Which four words describe your training style?

Humorous
pragmatic
energetic
focussed

Feedback you’d most like to get from a delegate following your course?

I really enjoyed myself and I can’t wait to put it into practice!

Feedback you’d probably get from delegates following one of your courses?

I was dreading it, but it was more relaxed and useful that I thought it would be

Any words of advice for a delegate about to go on one of your courses?

Be prepared to be challenged on ‘Yes, but…’ comments!

What’s the most fun you’ve ever had while on a training course?

Courses where delegates are happy to challenge, participate and really want to learn and go for it

What’s the most important ingredient in order for a course to be successful?

An open mind