Sam Kelsey

Sam has 10 years experience in management, training and development gained primarily as Management Development Manager for Norwich Union Central Services, part of the Aviva group.
Some relevant qualifications:
Diploma in Coaching & Mentoring (MEMCC)Myers Briggs Step I and II and FiroB Mental Toughness Development TTT NLP Practitioner (MBBNLP)Psychology of Change TTT

What has been your most rewarding training experience?

Working with a group of sceptical IT managers, who dreaded all but the most technical training, until they came into the workshops enthusiastic, relaxed, open minded and willing to try new ideas at least once!

Any bizarre or amusing training stories?

I like to have lost of things to stimulate the senses in a workshop. I once tested out rubber stress frogs, squeeze and their eyes bulged most satisfyingly!  Unfortunately one of them burst on the first morning at the hand of a rather tense delegate, squirting red liquid all over the room. The delegates were convinced all the props were booby trapped for the rest of the day.

What made you want to become a trainer?

I didn’t realise I did until I tried it! It’s addictive seeing people explore new worlds.

What would you be if not a trainer?

Doggy Day Care really appeals!

Which four words describe your training style?

Informal, collaborative, warm, questioning

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

“I worried about coming, now I can’t wait for the next session!” Or possibly, “She makes me think but I quite like it!”

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

I got a lot more out of the session than I expected, very thought provoking.

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

Leave your assumptions at the door they’re just tripping you up!

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

I’m not sure I should discuss that in a public forum :0)

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

Respect, for each other – we all have lots to learn from each other, and for yourself – you wont have time to learn if you’re fully occupied beating yourself up.