Hans Rostrup

BSc Politics and Economics (Southampton University): Qualified to Level B in Psychometric Assessment (British Psychological Society): Experience gained with PricewaterhouseCoopers, Austin Knight and Fielden Cegos, prior to starting my own business, Hranda, in 1993. Clients drawn from public and private sectors with particular expertise in professional services and technology based organisations.

What has been your most rewarding training experience?

Every time you see that “light bulb” go on as someone gets the point is the rewarding piece. Being told that a workshop changed someone’s life (for the better!) was also amazing.

Any bizarre or amusing training stories?

The bizarre usually involves delegates who don’t want to be there. They’ll opt out/refuse to do something and this makes them look even more ridiculous than before. Peer group pressure usually comes to the fore and by the end, often, they’ve become real champions.

What made you want to become a trainer?

I didn’t. I was asked to run some workshops on Interviewing Skills (when I worked in recruitment) and enjoyed them so much that I asked if I could do some more and it grew from there.

What would you be if not a trainer?

Something in the world of professional sport – possibly a rugby coach/Director of Rugby or a Team Manager in Cricket.

Which four words describe your training style?

Pragmatic
Relevant
Transformational
Challenging

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

I can really see how that will help me do my job better and I’m going to do it.

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

He was clear and easy to understand and really got the message across.

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

Arrive with an open mind: don’t try and hide because that’s bound to encourage me to involve you: and, please don’t leave your mobile on (even on silent/vibrate).

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

I always laugh a lot on the programmes, but working with a pan-European group on a cultural differences workshop was hilarious. People exaggerated all of the stereotypical behaviours as everyone played up to their national reputations – particularly the Finns who were determined to consume vodka with real enthusiasm.

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

The single most important is an energetic and enthusiastic trainer. The second most important is delegates that want to be there.