Training vs Coaching: Key Differences and When to Use Each
One integral part of understanding learning and development is the differences and similarities between training and coaching. Knowing these helps you position your learning intervention for employees so that it genuinely helps them succeed in the workplace.
So, let’s define training and coaching.
Training is a structured process that imparts knowledge and skills to individuals or groups. It follows a predefined curriculum and focuses on specific learning objectives.
Trainers deliver information, demonstrate techniques, facilitate discussions and activities, and assess learners' progress through exercises and assessments. Training is often used to ensure employees gain specific competencies required for their roles. For example, a sales professional gets trained in negotiation skills to close more deals with a supplier.
Coaching is a personalized development process that helps individuals improve performance, overcome challenges, and reach goals—It is a one-to-one interactive session guided by the learner's needs.
Coaches ask questions, provide feedback, and facilitate self-discovery rather than delivering direct instruction.
Coaching is commonly used for leadership development, performance improvement, and professional growth.
Let’s go to what makes them unique as a learning intervention.
Differences Between Coaching and Training
Objectives
Training aims to teach new knowledge and skills to ensure competency, while coaching focuses on improving performance and achieving personal or professional goals through self-reflection and problem-solving.
In other words, training is more focused on skills, while coaching derives answers for the holistic growth of the coachee.
Methodology
Training follows a structured syllabus with lectures, exercises, and evaluations to measure knowledge retention.
Coaching is flexible, adapting to the learner’s needs through guided discussions, active listening, and goal setting. The methodology is not rigid but flexible enough to accommodate the coachee's needs.
Outcomes
Training results in measurable skill acquisition, certification, or improved technical ability. Coaching fosters self-awareness, problem-solving, and behavioral change, leading to long-term growth.
While there are many evaluations and measurements for coaching, measuring the results of a coaching program remains unexplored.
Timeframe
Training is often short-term and has a defined endpoint, while coaching is ongoing and supports continuous personal and professional development.
While corporate training lasts only a day, coaching requires regular sessions to assess the coachee's development or progress further.
Instructor’s Role
Trainers provide direct instruction, structured content, and assessment. Coaches facilitate growth by guiding individuals to discover solutions independently and take ownership of their development.
Similarities Between Coaching and Training
While they have unique advantages, coaching and training can be applied as learning interventions, and similar patterns can be observed.
Learning and Development
Both methods aim to enhance knowledge, skills, and performance in professional or personal contexts. They both seek to promote learners’ holistic growth—that’s valuable learning and development interventions.
Guidance and Support
Trainers and coaches facilitate growth through structured interaction tailored to the learner's needs. However, their structured process is somewhat misinterpreted, especially for coaching. Some consider it a casual conversation with no structured flow to facilitate better learning.
As corporate trainers and coaches, the best coaches in the world apply the standard process, which makes coaching even more effective in promoting learning for Filipino leaders.
Feedback and Improvement
Both approaches involve evaluating progress, identifying gaps, and making necessary adjustments.
They aim to secure personal feedback that addresses any issue and closes gaps in competencies, which can drive the learner's progress towards a specific individual and professional goal.
Application of Concepts
Training and coaching encourage learners to apply knowledge and skills in real-life scenarios for maximum impact.
Like any type of learning, the application is what matters most. You can undergo training and coaching, but without applying the insights from both interventions, the teaching will fall flat and will not significantly impact your progress.
Personal and Professional Growth
Both contribute to career advancement, helping individuals develop competencies needed for success. As mentioned earlier, training and coaching are two essential learning interventions that any professional must invest heavily in, regardless of their rank in the corporate ladder.
Integration of Coaching and Training
Combining coaching and training enhances learning effectiveness by reinforcing newly acquired knowledge with ongoing development. Organizations can integrate both methods through:
Follow-up Coaching
Coaching can reinforce learning after training sessions. Providing personalized guidance and accountability becomes applying what should be based on the individual context and challenges the learner faces.
Coaching in Training
Trainers can incorporate coaching techniques like open-ended questioning and guided reflection to enhance engagement.
For instance, we conduct peer feedback and individual coaching sessions in our presentation skills training for participants to gain direct feedback from the trainer-coach and apply these rooms for improvements, as we call it, to the competency they want to achieve.
Customized Development Plans
Coaching can use assessments from training sessions to address individual growth areas with targeted strategies. The evaluation and needs assessment gathered from training needs analysis can help coaches guide their coaches to the proper reflection so they can leverage more insights into the self-awareness stage.
Managerial Coaching
Supervisors can use coaching skills to support employees in applying training concepts in their roles. Both learning interventions are necessary to address employees' challenges, gaps, and issues.
Skills Transfer Between Coaching and Training
Here are the top skills that coaching and corporate training would pass to the learner. Skills that can be applied across both disciplines include:
Active Listening: Essential for understanding learner needs, whether in a training session or coaching conversation.
The ability to listen would help impact the coach, coachee, trainer, and training participant, allowing a better flow of conversation and discussion on a subject.
Questioning Techniques
Trainers can use coaching-style questions to engage learners, while coaches can incorporate structured explanations when needed.
Both are useful in enhancing the learning atmosphere of the participants. The ability to ask questions can help garner insights that would otherwise only occur on that learning day—facilitating it well would drastically change a person’s life.
Feedback Delivery:
Effective feedback ensures skill mastery in training and fosters self-improvement in coaching.
That’s why there is an evaluation for both the coach and trainer—as they also need to improve their skills and master the craft so they can have more impact on other people’s lives.
Adaptability
Trainers can adjust content delivery based on learners' engagement, while coaches can introduce structured frameworks when necessary.
Coaches have a great flow of conversions, while corporate trainers can include activities and workshops relevant to the subject matter—that may or may not be inherently part of the original training design—but are essential to level up the skills of training participants.
When to Use Coaching vs. Training?
Knowing when to use these learning interventions is critical to your team's success—both for leaders and subordinates. You cannot interchange these two, as they have objectives and goals. If you choose wisely, this will have a more significant impact on your success goals.
Use Training When:
- Teaching specific skills, processes, or compliance requirements.
- Increasing competencies on particular subject matter (i.e., sales training for sales associates or sales leadership for sales managers).
- Onboard new employees and ensure consistency in knowledge transfer.
- Certifying individuals in technical competencies or industry standards.
- Introducing structured learning in a group setting.
- Introducing new tools and technologies to facilitate better use or application.
Use Coaching When:
- Developing leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills.
- Helping individuals navigate career challenges and set professional goals.
- Addressing performance issues through personalized development strategies.
- Supporting employees in applying training concepts in real-world scenarios.
- Strengthening relationships to improve results on Key Result Areas (KRAs).
Training & Coaching: A Powerful Combination
Training and coaching are both essential for learning and development. While training provides foundational education, coaching ensures continuous improvement and long-term success. Understanding their differences, similarities, and integration strategies helps organizations maximize employee growth, engagement, and productivity.
9 Best Leadership Training Topics (Most-Requested)
You’re now part of talent development, ready to launch leadership training for your new and seasoned employees. What you need the most is the best leadership training topics to discuss in corporate training.
In this guide, I’ll discuss the key leadership training topics that build essential skills. Whether leading a small team or a large organization with thousands of employees, you must hone and nurture specific skills to produce better outcomes and long-term success.
1. Adaptability and Resilience
In the age of AI and technology, leaders are facing a strong wave of innovation that a person with adaptability and resilience can stay effective during change and uncertainty.
These skills alone can help them endure and handle crises (which we have experienced so far during the COVID-19 season). They can also help their team members recover from setbacks by leading by example.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Building a Change-Ready Culture
Knowledge: Organizational change principles, change management theories
Skills: Communication, change facilitation, employee engagement
Attitude: Openness to change, flexibility, proactive mindset
Insights: Change management, in general, is an advanced skill in leadership training for managers and supervisors. If leaders are trained with the fundamentals of leadership and management, and they’ve been demonstrating behaviors and skills as more than the above leaders, change management is the next level they should consider advancing in terms of competence.
2. Fostering a Growth Mindset
Knowledge: Principles of neuroplasticity, continuous learning models
Skills: Encouraging feedback, challenging fixed beliefs, personal development
Attitude: Positive outlook, willingness to learn, perseverance
Insights: Changing mindsets in leadership training requires specific activities that encourage self-reflection instead of lecture-based learning. Industry professionals can learn more from reflecting on and discussing events with other participants. As a corporate leadership trainer, this has been my go-to learning structure for fostering a growth mindset in leaders.
3. Identifying Opportunities and Threats
Knowledge: SWOT analysis, risk assessment methods
Skills: Critical thinking, strategic planning, scenario analysis
Attitude: Risk-awareness, forward-thinking, adaptability
Insights: SWOT analysis is a good way to spot opportunities and threats in your current role, team, and department. This is typically done before the year starts. However, you shouldn’t limit the exercise to just leadership training proper. You can also integrate it into your monthly or weekly tasks, as it can help you be more aware of your strengths and weaknesses - truly upskilling yourself.
4. Recovering from Setbacks
Knowledge: Resilience frameworks, coping mechanisms
Skills: Emotional regulation, stress management, problem-solving
Attitude: Perseverance, confidence, optimism
Insights: In previous leadership training programs, topics like recovering from setbacks were not commonly seen. Today, it has become a core topic of leadership training, and we even have a standalone training for this skill area. The reason is that a considerable number of professionals are still recovering from their losses (and potentially having mental health issues) that need to be addressed so they can be more equipped to face present and future challenges.
2. Change Management
As mentioned earlier, change management is an advanced skill for leaders. As a corporate trainer, I see it as a core corporate training program initially suited for mid-level, top-level, and suite-level managers. However, a couple of years later, it became part of the training development curriculum for aspiring and new managers.
The primary reason is that change management applies to superiors at the top and leaders who are still part of the front-line team, facing challenges at work head-on. If they know how to solve problems, it could have a significant impact upwards, and it can help drive innovation by bringing creative ideas that only front-line managers can think of.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Understanding Change Processes
Knowledge: ADKAR model, Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model
Skills: Planning, communication, execution
Attitude: Patience, adaptability, resilience
Insights: I’ve had good change management training for strategy managers in one of the top outsourcing companies in the Philippines. It was a great experience learning directly from strategy managers who experience drastic changes inside and outside the organization (technology adaption, tools, strategies, etc..). They crafted their own change management process from my given framework, and a good couple of hours discussing their real-life examples of changes allowed them to increase their self-awareness and individually create their action plans to tackle them.
2. Managing Resistance to Change
Knowledge: Psychological reactions to change, stakeholder management
Skills: Negotiation, conflict resolution, persuasion
Attitude: Empathy, persistence, strategic thinking
Insights: The ADKAR and Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model are the best frameworks for change management. They’ve been tested and practiced across different organizations and industries, giving you the confidence that it works and would impact your target participants similarly.
3. Developing Employee Career Paths
Knowledge: Talent development strategies, mentorship techniques
Skills: Coaching, career mapping, performance assessment
Attitude: Supportiveness, vision-oriented thinking, encouragement
Insights: This competence addresses the human resource (human capital, as others refer to it) or any department involved in talent development. Change management today also includes drafting and implementing a solid career map for employees. It upskill HR leaders to consider the changes in job roles as changes arise in the organization.
3. Coaching and Mentoring
Coaching and mentoring have become a buzzword today. Still, I see few companies invested in leadership development (most companies with this as a core topic for leadership training are multi-national companies, but still very few).
Coaching and mentoring are essential skills in driving individual work performance. Leaders can help their direct reports see themselves as performers and address performance gap issues.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Active Listening
Knowledge: Listening techniques, barriers to effective listening
Skills: Paraphrasing, asking clarifying questions, non-verbal cues
Attitude: Patience, attentiveness, empathy
Insights: Active listening isn’t just a particular behavior but a skill that leaders should constantly practice and master to improve. To encourage participants to practice this skill, you should design the training program to include workshops that enhance active listening. You should also probably share additional principles and points on mastering active listening.
2. Feedback and Reflection
Knowledge: Feedback models (e.g., SBI, GROW)
Skills: Constructive criticism, performance evaluation, goal setting
Attitude: Objectivity, encouragement, continuous improvement
Insights: Giving feedback is one of the leadership conversations that can help leaders’ subordinates improve their day-to-day work. Opportunities are spotted to put strengths into practice and identify gaps at work—in terms of knowledge, skills, and behavior- and improve each to increase the level of competencies.
3. Situational Coaching
Knowledge: Leadership coaching styles (directive vs. non-directive)
Skills: Adapting coaching techniques, problem-solving, guidance
Attitude: Adaptability, willingness to mentor, respect for individuality
Insights: The Situational Leadership Model by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard has been widely used to coach subordinates at the level of their support and coaching needs. From the term itself, situational, the leadership style varies depending on the current context of the person you’re coaching.
4. Conflict Resolution
Conflicts are part of handling teams. As you transition teams from forming (the first stage of team development) to norming (the second stage), you’ll experience and see actual conflicts between team members that either challenge them to grow or could be a barrier to team harmony and productivity.
Knowing how to handle disputes effectively can help your team grow and function better.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Identifying Sources of Conflict
Knowledge: Workplace conflict types, conflict resolution models
Skills: Root cause analysis, mediation, active listening
Attitude: Fairness, open-mindedness, emotional control
Insights: It’s a separate fundamental skill to know the root cause of the conflict. And it is easier said than done because you must figure it out honestly and critically during discussions and open forums.
2. Mediation Skills
Knowledge: Interest-based negotiation, neutral facilitation techniques
Skills: Compromise strategies, impartial listening, persuasion
Attitude: Neutrality, respect, solution-driven mindset
Insights: Your goal as a leader is not to be one-sided. You aim to unite parties involved using active listening skills and specific values such as respect and neutrality. The higher you go up the corporate ladder, the more challenging it is to manage subordinates’ disputes.
5. Effective Communication
All leaders are communicators. It is only a matter of whether the communication has a positive or negative impact. If you can persuade people with words and actions through effective communication, you can inspire them to achieve individual and team goals.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication
Knowledge: Communication models, body language interpretation
Skills: Public speaking, storytelling, engaging presentations
Attitude: Confidence, approachability, authenticity
Insights: Most of how you show it is what your subordinates pick up as the message of your communication. This includes your tone of voice, speed, dynamics, and body language that you may not be consciously aware of as you speak but highly dictates how your team members perceive your message.
2. Active Listening
Knowledge: Barriers to effective listening, techniques for engagement
Skills: Summarizing, clarifying, showing empathy
Attitude: Open-mindedness, patience, attentiveness
Insights: Active listening is an essential element in leadership communication. By listening to them right away, you understand better the intent behind every word they say. This impacts your response to every situation and allows you to garner and build more trust with your team members.
6. Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence has become a core module for many corporate training programs. Not only is it necessary for anyone to manage their emotions, but it’s also apparent that people are sensitive to other people’s emotions—a crucial area in strengthening work relationships.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Self-awareness and Self-Regulation
Knowledge: Emotional intelligence models, mindfulness techniques
Skills: Emotional control, stress management, decision-making
Attitude: Reflectiveness, calmness, adaptability
2. Empathy and Social Awareness
Knowledge: Cross-cultural communication, emotional recognition
Skills: Perspective-taking, conflict resolution, inclusivity
Attitude: Compassion, fairness, open-mindedness
3. Relationship Management
Knowledge: DEI principles, interpersonal dynamics
Skills: Building trust, managing teams, networking
Attitude: Empathy, inclusivity, approachability
Insights: These three components of emotional intelligence—self-awareness, empathy, and relationship management are areas where one can master and strengthen competencies. I see these three pillars in most emotional intelligence frameworks, including Daniel Goleman’s Four Domains of Emotional Intelligence.
7. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
We face problems and make decisions every single day at work. Leaders who know how to develop the best possible solution for every problem will have higher chances of getting promoted and achieving the organization's best performance.
Problem-solving and decision-making training can elevate your leaders’ critical and creative thinking skills, making them more competent and confident at work.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Critical Thinking
Knowledge: Logical reasoning, bias recognition
Skills: Evaluating evidence, analyzing data, root-cause analysis
Attitude: Skepticism, curiosity, patience
2. Decision-Making Frameworks
Knowledge: SWOT analysis, cost-benefit analysis
Skills: Risk assessment, prioritization, scenario planning
Attitude: Confidence, responsibility, ethical considerations
Insights: In my problem-solving decision-making training, I teach the framework of SAPADAPPA, which is a PSDM tool to help leaders come up with the best solutions by first analyzing their situation, getting to the root cause of their problems, identifying the probable reasons and coming up with the best solution using the decision analysis.
8. Team Building and Collaboration
While there are many team-building facilitators, it is also true that leaders must know how to build their teams, not necessarily have them play different activities. But beyond just playing games, it is more about leaders intentionally developing their teams.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Trust and Psychological Safety
Knowledge: Team dynamics, trust-building techniques
Skills: Transparency, delegation, recognition
Attitude: Honesty, openness, inclusivity
Insights: Psychological safety is a keynote talk or panel discussion topic in many HR and talent development seminars. The entire premise revolves around creating a healthy culture where employees are more open to their ideas, concerns, and challenges, which is a strong indicator of such a culture.
2. Effective Collaboration
Knowledge: Group problem-solving models, facilitation techniques
Skills: Conflict resolution, role assignment, active participation
Attitude: Cooperation, commitment, mutual respectf
9. Time Management
Effective time management helps leaders allocate their resources properly—where the most expensive resource every leader should manage is their time.
Leaders are not only individual contributors but also invest time in coaching and supporting their subordinates, learning to achieve maximum productivity while maintaining healthy relationships with the team members. These are crucial in today’s working environment.
Key Competencies and KSA Requirements
1. Prioritization and Planning
Knowledge: Time management frameworks (Eisenhower Matrix, Pomodoro Technique)
Skills: Scheduling, goal setting, workload distribution
Attitude: Discipline, consistency, self-motivation
2. Reducing Distractions and Increasing Focus
Knowledge: Productivity techniques, cognitive load management
Skills: Task batching, setting boundaries, focus improvement
Attitude: Commitment, awareness, persistence
How to Determine Leadership Training Topics?
1. Conduct a Training Needs Analysis
A Training Needs Analysis (TNA) identifies gaps in leadership competencies. A structured assessment evaluates employees' current skills, knowledge, and attitudes.
You can check out our Free Training Needs Analysis Template.
2. Identify Problem and Growth Gaps
As you go deeper with your training needs analysis, you’ll find both problem and growth gaps in the competencies of your subordinates. This is where you need to analyze them so you can design a training program (or outsource it to the best corporate training provider in the Philippines - if you lack the resources to do so).
What’s the difference between the two: problem gaps and growth gaps?
Problem Gaps: These indicate a deficiency in key leadership competency, such as ineffective communication.
Growth Gaps: These focus on continuous development, ensuring employees refine their skills without pressing issues.
3. Design and Align Training with Business Goals
All leadership training must support organizational objectives (aligned leadership training objectives). It doesn’t stand alone like another statistic or schedule in the training calendar.
Leadership training programs are investments in the company's people, so it’s critically important to make them worthwhile in terms of costs and time.
4. Ask for Recommendations From SMEs or Trainers
You can hire a training design consultant if you lack the technical knowledge or expertise to identify your employees' training needs. These consultants specialize in analyzing and designing aspects of a corporate training program (end-to-end), giving you everything you need to create a successful training event.
5. Use Proven Frameworks
If you want to do it yourself, you can go directly to widespread and successful leadership training frameworks for the above leadership competencies
- Change Management: ADKAR Model
- Communication: DISC Model
- Emotional Intelligence: Goleman’s EQ Model
- Decision-Making: SWOT & Cost-Benefit Analysis
If you’re looking for an engaging leadership training program that meets your training needs and business objectives, contact us today for a free quote.
Training Needs Analysis Template [Free Excel Download]
Identifying skill gaps and aligning employee development with business goals is easier when you have a training needs analysis template. At Rainmakers, we help our clients develop their employees through corporate training programs.
And it starts by identifying their needs through training needs analysis.
Below is a template that you can use to systematically assess training priorities and ensure resources are allocated where they matter most.
Why Use a Template for Training Needs Assessment?
A well-designed Training Needs Analysis (TNA) template eliminates guesswork and provides a structured approach to evaluating competencies, identifying training needs, and aligning learning interventions with business objectives. It ensures that training efforts are data-driven, strategic, and impactful.
What is a Training Needs Analysis?
A Training Needs Analysis is a systematic process organizations use to assess skill gaps, knowledge deficiencies, and competency levels in their workforce. Businesses can identify key training priorities and allocate resources effectively by evaluating employees' current capabilities against desired performance outcomes.
How to Use This Training Needs Analysis Template?
- Review Example Data – The template includes a sample dataset for reference.
- Customize Your Inputs – Fill in your own job roles, performance goals, key skills, and competency levels in the Empty Training Needs Analysis Template tab.
- Assess Training Priorities – Use the scoring system to determine high-priority training areas.
- Define Development Solutions – Identify whether training, coaching, mentoring, or job aids are the best intervention.
- Implement and Track Progress – Use the structured format to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with business goals.
Why This Template Stands Out?
- Comprehensive yet Simple – It breaks down training needs into goals, behaviors, skills, knowledge, and attitudes for a thorough evaluation.
- Scoring System for Prioritization – The 1–5 scale ensures training focus on high-impact areas.
- Built-in Recommendations – Helps determine if skill gaps can be solved with training or require alternative solutions like coaching or mentoring.
By using this Training Needs Analysis Template, organizations can make smarter training decisions, optimize workforce capabilities, and drive business success.
👉 Make a Copy of the Training Needs Analysis Template
Employee Training Statistics in the Philippines (For 2025)
Employee training is a cornerstone of organizational growth and success. It empowers workers with the skills they need to perform effectively and adapt to industry changes. Corporate training, in particular, plays a pivotal role in ensuring companies remain competitive and innovative in an evolving market.
Understanding employee training statistics helps organizations make informed decisions about resource allocation, program design, and long-term development strategies. This article delves into key trends and data surrounding employee training, with a specific focus on the Philippines and global insights.
Employee Training Statistics in the Philippines
The Philippines has made significant strides in employee training and vocational education. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is at the forefront, driving workforce development through its programs.
Labor Force Participation Rate: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates have a labor force participation rate (LFPR) of 74.5%. Enterprise-based program graduates stand out with an LFPR of 89.1%. (Source: TESDA)
Employment Success: TESDA reports that 60.9% of TVET graduates are employed. Enterprise-based training programs achieve even higher employment rates at 83.1%. (Source: TESDA)
Investment in Training: Philippine establishments demonstrate their commitment to workforce growth by allocating significant annual budgets for job-related training. (Source: Philippine Statistics Authority)
Industry-Specific Focus: A study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies highlights the need for targeted training programs in key industries such as construction, manufacturing, and tourism. (Source: PIDS)
Global Employee Training Statistics
Globally, the importance of corporate training continues to grow, with substantial investments made to enhance employee skills.
Global Training Expenditure: In 2019, worldwide spending on employee training reached $370.3 billion. North America led the charge with $169.4 billion. (Source: Research.com)
Training Budgets by Company Size: In 2020, large companies (10,000+ employees) in the United States spent an average of $22 million on training, up from $17.7 million in 2019. Mid-sized companies spent $900,000, and small businesses allocated $808,000. (Source: Think Impact)
eLearning Growth: Digital learning has seen a 75% increase in adoption since the pandemic, becoming a critical component of corporate training programs. (Source: Leoron)
Benefits of Corporate Training and Employee Development
Organizations that prioritize employee training reap measurable rewards. Corporate training programs address skill gaps, boost productivity, and improve employee satisfaction.
Increased Productivity: Employees who undergo regular training are better equipped to handle tasks efficiently, leading to higher organizational output. (Source: Philippine Star)
Employee Retention: According to recent data, 92% of employees feel that training programs improve their engagement and commitment to their organizations. (Source: MyShortlister)
Adaptability: Continuous training prepares employees to adapt to technological changes and new industry standards. This capability ensures businesses remain competitive in dynamic environments.
Challenges in Employee Training
Despite its benefits, implementing effective corporate training programs comes with challenges.
Budget Constraints: Limited financial resources can impact the scope and quality of training programs. (Source: Think Impact)
Technological Barriers: The shift to eLearning requires reliable internet and access to devices, which can pose challenges, particularly in regions with inadequate infrastructure. (Source: Leoron)
Industry Alignment: Ensuring that training content meets current industry needs requires constant evaluation and adjustment. (Source: PIDS)
The Future of Employee Training
The future of corporate training is digital, flexible, and personalized. Hybrid models combining in-person workshops with eLearning platforms are gaining traction. Advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning are expected to revolutionize training by offering tailored learning paths based on individual employee needs. Additionally, upskilling and reskilling initiatives will remain critical as industries embrace automation and digital transformation.
Organizations that invest in comprehensive training programs will be better positioned to attract and retain talent, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth. The growing emphasis on corporate training highlights its role as a strategic lever for success in an increasingly competitive market.
By leveraging insights from employee training statistics, businesses can craft effective strategies that address skill gaps, promote professional growth, and ensure a thriving workforce.
Unconscious Competence: Mastery Beyond Awareness
Unconscious competence, the final stage in the four levels of competence, represents the pinnacle of skill development.
At this stage, individuals perform tasks effortlessly and flawlessly without conscious thought. This level marks true mastery and sets itself apart from the earlier stages by its seamless and automatic execution of skills.
As a multi-industry entrepreneur, corporate trainer, and speaker, I aim to attain mastery through constant practice and effort in my career. Imagine performing tasks that feel effortless, as if you’ve been doing them for years and decades already—this makes unconscious competence worthy of learning about.
In this guide, we will explore unconscious competence and how it differs from the other levels of competence.
We will also discuss its applications in corporate training, leadership development, and enhancing workplace culture, focusing on developing soft skills.
Understanding the Four Levels of Competence
The Four Levels of Competence model is a framework for understanding how individuals acquire and develop skills. It consists of:
- Unconscious Incompetence: The individual does not know what they do not know.
- Conscious Incompetence: The individual recognizes their lack of knowledge or skill and begins to understand the need for learning.
- Conscious Competence: The individual can perform the skill, but requires effort and deliberate thought.
- Unconscious Competence: The individual performs the skill effortlessly, with mastery so ingrained that it feels natural.
While the earlier stages involve awareness and effort, unconscious competence is distinct because it is automatic and fluid. It signifies the internalization of skills to the point where they no longer require active mental engagement.
What Sets Unconscious Competence Apart
Unconscious competence is unique in several ways:
- Effortless Execution: Tasks are performed instinctively. For example, an experienced driver navigates traffic without consciously thinking about every gear shift or turn.
- Efficiency: Energy and mental resources are conserved, allowing the individual to focus on other tasks or challenges.
- Intuition: Decisions are made based on ingrained expertise rather than conscious analysis, which can accelerate problem-solving in dynamic situations.
- Transferability: Skills at this level often translate to related areas, broadening an individual’s capability.
This level of mastery is essential in areas that require split-second decisions or multitasking, such as leadership roles, problem-solving and decision-making, creative industries, and technical professions.
The Path to Unconscious Competence
Reaching unconscious competence is a progression that depends on consistent practice, feedback, and refinement. It is not merely about repetition but about deliberate practice, where individuals continuously challenge themselves to improve.
Key factors include:
- Deliberate Practice: Focused repetition with attention to improving weaknesses.
- Feedback Loops: Constructive criticism to fine-tune performance.
- Time and Experience: Gradual improvement over an extended period.
Unconscious competence requires a solid foundation built during earlier stages of learning. Most people skip the first three levels, making them vulnerable to not mastering the fourth level. You must create a solid foundation of the three levels to progress well in the fourth.
Individuals cannot transition into this effortless mastery without conscious competence, where deliberate thought and effort are applied.
Applications of Unconscious Competence in Corporate Training
Unconscious competence plays a critical role in corporate environments. Organizations aim to embed this expertise within their workforce to foster efficiency, adaptability, and innovation.
1. Enhancing Corporate Culture
A corporate culture that values unconscious competence emphasizes training and mentorship. It promotes:
- Skill Automation: Employees excel in their roles without excessive micromanagement.
- Peer Learning: Seasoned employees such as managers, supervisors, and directors serve as role models, demonstrating the ease and mastery of unconscious competence. We call this “leading by example.”
- Increased Collaboration: Teams with unconscious competence in soft skills, such as technical writing, communication, and empathy, work more harmoniously.
2. Leadership Development
Leadership requires a blend of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills. For leaders, unconscious competence means:
- Decisive Action: Making decisions quickly based on experience rather than analysis paralysis.
- Visionary Thinking: Leaders with mastered skills can focus on strategic goals instead of routine tasks.
- Role Modeling: Leaders demonstrate the mastery that inspires their teams.
Programs to develop leadership skills should emphasize transitioning participants to unconscious competence in areas like communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making. Learn why leadership training fails, invest in the best programs (and discover leadership training costs).
Here are a couple of actionable guides we wrote about leadership:
Building Soft Skills Through Unconscious Competence
Soft skills like communication, empathy, and teamwork are often undervalued in skill-building frameworks but are essential for workplace success. Achieving unconscious competence in soft skills transforms workplace interactions:
- Effective Communication: Individuals communicate clearly and adaptively without consciously strategizing.
- Emotional Intelligence: Empathy becomes second nature, enhancing relationships and reducing conflicts.
- Team Synergy: Teams function more cohesively when members have mastered collaboration and conflict resolution skills.
Corporate training programs must include consistent practice scenarios, role-playing, and feedback loops to ensure soft skills move beyond conscious competence.
Best Practices for Corporate Training
To foster unconscious competence, corporate training must be structured to support continuous learning and real-world application:
- Simulation-Based Training: Realistic scenarios enable employees to practice skills in a controlled environment.
- Microlearning Modules: Bite-sized, repetitive lessons ensure retention without overwhelming learners.
- Mentorship Programs: Experienced professionals guide less experienced employees, providing insights that accelerate mastery.
- Regular Assessments: Feedback mechanisms track progress and identify areas needing improvement.
By combining these approaches, organizations can help employees internalize skills, fostering unconscious competence at all workforce levels.
Challenges in Reaching Unconscious Competence
Despite its benefits, achieving unconscious competence can be challenging. Common obstacles include:
- Complacency: Individuals may plateau, thinking they have mastered a skill prematurely.
- Overconfidence: Without regular reassessment, unconscious competence can lead to errors if the environment changes.
- Skill Decay: Without ongoing practice, mastery can diminish over time.
Organizations must counter these challenges by encouraging lifelong learning and promoting adaptability.
The Role of Technology in Facilitating Unconscious Competence
Technological tools have become instrumental in helping individuals reach unconscious competence. Examples include:
- AI-Based Feedback Tools: Provide instant analysis and recommendations for improvement.
- Gamified Learning Platforms: Motivate learners to practice consistently through rewards and challenges.
- Virtual Reality (VR) Training: Immersive experiences replicate real-world scenarios, accelerating skill internalization.
By integrating these technologies, businesses can enhance the effectiveness of their training programs.
Mastering Skills Beyond Awareness: The Key to Sustainable Success
Unconscious competence is the ultimate goal of skill development, where mastery becomes second nature. It sets itself apart from other stages of the competence model through its effortless execution and efficiency. For organizations, cultivating unconscious competence within their workforce is essential for building a thriving corporate culture, effective leadership, and cohesive teams.
Organizations can help individuals achieve unconscious competence through structured training programs, consistent practice, and technological support. This will create a more capable and confident workforce, enhance performance, and contribute to long-term success in any professional environment.
The Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model: A Guide to Training Evaluation
You can’t improve what you cannot measure. That’s why evaluating the effectiveness of training programs is essential for organizations seeking to enhance employee performance and achieve business goals.
The Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model is one of the most widely used frameworks. Developed by Dr. Donald Kirkpatrick in the 1950s, this model provides a structured approach to assess training programs at four distinct levels. It helps organizations understand how well training initiatives work and what can be improved based on insights and assessments. This has been used as a framework for training the trainers program to enhance in-house technical trainers.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key aspects of the Kirkpatrick Model, its four levels, practical examples, assessment strategies, and tips for effective implementation.
What Is the Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model?
The Kirkpatrick Model is a systematic framework for evaluating the effectiveness of training programs. It assesses training across four levels:
- Reaction: How participants feel about the training
- Learning: What knowledge or skills participants gained
- Behavior: How participants apply their learning on the job
- Results: The impact of the training on organizational outcomes.
Each level builds on the one before, offering a comprehensive view of the training’s success. Organizations use this model to measure immediate feedback, learning progress, practical application, and long-term outcomes.
The 4 Levels of Evaluation
1. Reaction
This level focuses on participants’ immediate responses to the training. It answers questions such as:
- Did participants enjoy the training?
- Was the material relevant to their job?
- Was the trainer effective?
How It’s Measured:
- Surveys or feedback forms filled out after the training.
- Questions on content quality, engagement, and trainer performance.
Example: After a customer service training session, participants complete a survey rating the usefulness of the course and the instructor's ability to explain concepts clearly.
Pro Tip: Make it a requirement that they answer surveys or feedback forms. For example, they could only get their certificates if they answered the forms.
2. Learning
This level evaluates the knowledge or skills participants gained during the training. It aims to determine if the training objectives were met.
How It’s Measured:
- Pre- and post-training assessments.
- Quizzes, tests, or practical exercises.
- Observing participant performance during training.
Example: Participants in a software training program complete a hands-on exercise at the end of the session to demonstrate their understanding of key features.
Pro Tip: Include assessments related to your corporate training topics in your handouts - so participants can easily understand that it’s part of the training to have this assessment.
3. Behavior
At this level, the focus shifts to how participants apply what they learned in their work environment. It examines whether the training has led to changes in behavior or skills usage on the job.
How It’s Measured:
- Manager or peer feedback on observed behavior changes.
- On-the-job evaluations or performance metrics.
- Follow-up surveys were conducted weeks or months after the training.
Example: An organization tracks whether employees who completed conflict resolution training use the taught techniques to handle disputes more effectively. This would involve having workshops and role-play sessions to apply what has been learned from the session immediately.
For instance, in my sales training program, we do a SEED selling role-playing activity to help participants apply my selling framework to their daily activities.
4. Results
The final level measures the broader impact of training on organizational objectives. It assesses whether the training contributed to business goals like increased productivity, higher customer satisfaction, or cost savings.
How It’s Measured:
- Key performance indicators (KPIs) before and after training.
- ROI analysis of the training program.
- Long-term business performance data.
Example: After a sales team undergoes training to improve closing techniques, the company observes a 15% increase in sales revenue in the following quarter.
This requires gathering data before the actual training delivery so you have a benchmark of the exact percentage you have to improve. Whether it’s a sales quota percentage, CSAT score, or any metric relevant to the skillset you’re training at, it is essential to measure it before the training and use it as a benchmark for improvement.
Applying the Kirkpatrick Model to Training Evaluation
Organizations often use the Kirkpatrick Model at various stages of the training process to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Here’s how it can be applied:
1. Pre-Training
- Define clear learning objectives that align with organizational goals.
- Establish benchmarks for success at each of the four levels.
- Develop tools and methods for collecting feedback and assessing learning.
2. During Training
- Use real-time feedback tools like quick polls or quizzes to gauge participant engagement.
- Include activities like role-playing or group discussions to evaluate immediate learning.
- Ensure trainers monitor participant involvement and address questions promptly.
3. Post-Training
- Conduct follow-up assessments to measure knowledge retention.
- Gather feedback from managers to assess behavior changes in the workplace.
- Analyze business performance metrics to evaluate long-term results.
Strategies for Assessment and Tools
Implementing the Kirkpatrick Model effectively requires thoughtful planning and the right tools. Below are strategies for each level and recommended tools:
Level 1: Reaction
Strategies:
- Design concise feedback forms with specific questions.
- Include open-ended questions for qualitative feedback.
Tools:
- Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, or other survey tools.
Level 2: Learning
Strategies:
- Create pre- and post-tests aligned with learning objectives.
- Use practical exercises or scenarios for hands-on assessment.
Tools:
- Learning management systems (LMS) with built-in assessment features like Moodle or TalentLMS.
Level 3: Behavior
Strategies:
- Schedule follow-up evaluations with managers.
- Develop a checklist for observing behavioral changes.
Tools:
- 360-degree feedback tools or performance-tracking software like Workday.
Level 4: Results
Strategies:
- Compare KPIs from before and after the training program.
- Conduct cost-benefit analyses to measure ROI.
Tools:
- Business intelligence software like Tableau or Power BI.
Pro Tips for Implementing the Kirkpatrick Model
- Align Training Goals with Business Objectives: Identify specific business challenges and design the training to address them. Then, meet with key stakeholders to understand the business landscape and particular training needs. Finally, a training needs analysis must always be conducted before any training delivery.
- Gather Feedback Continuously: Collect data at multiple points (before, during, and after training) to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
- Use SMART Metrics: Make evaluation metrics Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
- Engage Managers: Involve managers in observing behavior changes and providing feedback. Managers are usually the bottleneck for training (it's just a reality), so involve them early in the process.
- Leverage Technology: Use digital tools to automate surveys, assessments, and data collection.
- Report Insights Clearly: Present findings in a clear, actionable format to stakeholders, focusing on key outcomes and recommendations. If you’re a training manager, get feedback from your team on what to do and how to improve in-house training programs.
Maximizing Training Impact with the Kirkpatrick Model
The Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model provides a structured approach to measure training effectiveness across four levels. From gauging participant reactions to evaluating business results, this model helps organizations identify strengths and areas for improvement in their training programs.
Applying the strategies and tools outlined in this article can ensure that your training initiatives deliver meaningful results and drive organizational success.
70 20 10 Rule: How to Optimize It for Learning and Development
The 70-20-10 rule is a widely fundamental framework in learning and development (L&D). It is also the basis of my learning structure when I design corporate training programs and packages for our clients.
This rule defines the optimal mix of learning and sources for effective professional growth, especially for managers and leaders. It was developed in the 1980s by Morgan McCall, Michael M. Lombardo, and Robert A. Eichinger at the Center for Creative Leadership.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 70-20-10 model, its components, and my practical insights on applying this for leadership development, with real-life examples so that you can visualize it yourself.
What Is the 70-20-10 Rule?
The 70-20-10 rule suggests that learning happens in three ways:
- 70% through experiential learning (on-the-job experiences)
- 20% through social learning (interactions with others)
- 10% through formal learning (structured courses and training)
While in real-life scenarios, you’ll find variations of this percentage, to be honest, but the principle remains the same. Not every learning and development comes from simply attending courses and training programs. Most active learning happens in on-the-job experiences and through coaching and mentoring (which has become a trend in talent development today).
The Three Components of the 70-20-10 Rule
70% Experiential Learning
Experiential learning focuses on learning by doing. It involves tackling real-life challenges, solving problems, and applying skills directly in the workplace. Employees apply what they have learned from formal and informal education to tackle daily work challenges in this type of learning.
Experiential learning is the most significant contributor to growth because it allows individuals to learn in a context relevant to their roles. Instead of simply acquiring knowledge, they learn, unlearn, and relearn by doing the task. Their knowledge is tested when they encounter obstacles to accomplishing it so they can find efficient and better ways to solve problems.
One of the best examples of experiential learning is leadership development. It covers these initiatives and skills assessments to learn and grow from work experiences.
Project Ownership: A manager leads a cross-functional team to execute a new initiative, learning project management and team dynamics. By having autonomy on the subject, the employee can own the decisions and outcomes arising from every task accomplished.
If you are a leader, one way to ensure your subordinates learn from their work is to inculcate project ownership. The more they make decisions and achieve wins, the more they want to accomplish.
Problem-Solving: For example, addressing workplace conflicts teaches communication and decision-making.
Most conflicts cannot be solved simply by attending a problem-solving and conflict-management seminar. However, it would help if the corporate trainer smoothly transitioned the session to discuss issues within teams openly.
In reality, this doesn’t happen in most cases. Conflicts get burned in the ground, which causes malfunctions in relationships, resulting in more miscommunication and inefficiency.
Stretch Assignments: For instance, a marketing professional might take on a sales role, gaining new insights and broadening their skill set.
Experiential learning becomes more apparent in new roles and projects. Since the newly trained professional doesn’t have practical experience with the new task, it makes sense that they would make more mistakes than in previous work/tasks/projects.
The coaching and mentoring hat (20% social learning) must be worn here. If the leader becomes more of a coach or mentor than a boss, the need for further refinement of skills that can only be achieved through constant practice will be better understood.
There are a couple more examples, but you should now understand how critical 70% of experiential learning is to learning and development.
20% Social Learning
Social learning happens through interaction and collaboration; for leaders, it refers to coaching and mentoring.
Through daily work interactions and professional relationships, it becomes simpler for professionals to gain knowledge and practical experience from others’ expertise and experiences.
To give you context, in leadership development, someone in a mentorship program looks like this: a junior manager learns leadership skills by shadowing a senior executive. Through actual observation of the real work, the junior manager understands the nuances and challenges of the new task.
Even during lunch breaks, the junior manager can learn additional information from his superior, further expanding his work knowledge.
A feedback culture is an example of social learning applied to leadership development. Team members provide constructive feedback during reviews, enabling individual growth.
Giving feedback can be formal or informal, as nowadays, most professionals are busy with their daily activities. Sometimes, it doesn’t fit into their schedules to have as frequent feedback sessions as it used to be.
You’ll find many managers giving feedback after an actual task. For instance, a sales manager giving direct feedback right after a presentation of his sales presentation with a prospective client. That feedback is more effective as the timing is right after a task is delivered, and more often than not, it is more retainable in the professional’s mind.
Topping it off as part of social learning in leadership development can help employees see improvement through the eyes of their peers, whether feedback from the same department or other departments.
Sharing best practices regarding what works in the company can be a good source of social learning. It is relevant to the employees' work and adds more value to the overall KPIs of the team or department being assessed.
10% Formal Learning
We couldn’t ignore the remaining 10% as it often matters.
Formal learning refers to structured training programs, workshops, or e-learning courses. While it contributes the least in percentage, it provides foundational knowledge that can be applied in practice.
When employees join a company, they typically undergo morning sessions to gain fundamental knowledge about their work, team, department, and company. This gives them a foundational understanding of why they do what they do and how they perform at work.
In the leadership development context we mentioned earlier, formal learning could be anything in corporate training, such as attending a leadership training workshop to learn about emotional intelligence, completing an online course on conflict resolution techniques, or simply participating in seminars on emerging industry trends.
All these can add to the employee's formal learning, which can further develop as they apply all these to their work. It’s about application, as we say and know.
Many multinational companies in the Philippines offer their employees a series of modules and structured formal learning. Conversely, startups have difficulty doing this, as they focus more on their operations and often neglect their talent development. In this case, outsourcing to the top corporate training providers is a more viable option.
How to Implement the 70-20-10 Model?
This section warrants a new post, as there are many things to do when implementing the 70-20-10 rule in learning and development. As such, giving you a start, this list gives you more actionable tips than any other guide on this subject.
1. Make Experiential Learning the Core (70%)
This applies to any company size, industry, and revenue. All employees need a solid experiential learning culture where they can see themselves growing inside the company. As most Gen Z will constantly reiterate during their interviews, this is essential for finding personal and professional growth in their companies.
Here are some tips to make experiential learning part of your systems in your talent development:
- Assign employees challenging projects that align with business goals to develop hands-on problem-solving skills.
- Rotate employees through different roles or departments to broaden their skill sets and perspectives.
- Incorporate on-the-job training for real-time learning in high-impact scenarios.
2. Foster Social Learning Opportunities (20%)
This tip is easier said than done, as it depends mainly on the team and company's culture and how the management manifests and leads by example in ensuring employees capitalize on learning opportunities.
Best practices in fostering social learning opportunities include:
- Pair employees with mentors to provide guidance and real-world insights.
- Host regular peer-learning forums or cross-department workshops to share knowledge.
- Encourage feedback loops during team meetings to integrate learning into daily operations.
3. Deliver High-Impact Formal Training (10%)
This is what Rainmakers, as a corporate training provider, specializes in. We deliver high-impact corporate training programs to clients of different sizes in teams, organizational structure, and training needs.
Whether you want to do it in-house or outsource, corporate training programs must have any of these - you can do as action plans for your teams as well:
- Create short, targeted workshops or online modules addressing specific competency gaps.
- Tailor learning materials to align with immediate organizational priorities and goals.
- Integrate post-training follow-ups to connect concepts to workplace practices.
You can check out our guides on how to conduct leadership training, its cost and pricing models, and the best leadership training programs in the Philippines.
4. Blend the Learning Methods
You won’t often find a single learning method in practice. So, blending all these methods and rules will be helpful in many of the observations for learning and development.
Few tips on how to do it:
- Start with structured training and apply new skills in workplace challenges (70%).
- Reinforce training outcomes by assigning mentors or facilitating group discussions (20%).
- Encourage employees to document and share key takeaways from their experiential learning.
5. Continuously Monitor and Adjust
You can only ensure the effectiveness of an activity if you measure it so you can continuously adjust for more improvements. Here are some things you can do to adjust the learning initiatives:
- Track progress using measurable outcomes like skill improvements or project success rates.
- Collect feedback from participants and mentors to refine learning approaches.
- Regularly evaluate the alignment of learning initiatives with business goals to ensure
Optimize Learning and Development
We are at an age where not learning is costly for companies and individuals. Using the rule we have - 70-20-10 and other fundamentals and trends in learning and development helps us better optimize our learning and development interventions in companies.
Organizations can create programs that drive measurable results by focusing on experiential, social, and formal learning in the proper proportions. Strengthening the synergy between these components ensures maximum impact, helping individuals and teams grow effectively.
Adopting the 70-20-10 model requires intentionality and commitment. However, proper implementation can transform how organizations approach employee development, paving the way for long-term success.
Top Training Providers in the Philippines 2025
In a fast-paced, competitive environment like the Philippines, businesses and individuals continuously seek professional growth. Training providers play a vital role in equipping people with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive.
Below is a curated list of the top training providers in the Philippines in 2025, highlighting their specializations and unique value propositions.
1. Rainmakers Training and Consultancy
At Rainmakers, our mission is to provide top-tier corporate training solutions tailored to meet your organization’s specific needs. We specialize in Leadership and Management, Presentation Skills, Digital Marketing, and Sales Training. Whether you’re enhancing managerial capabilities or boosting sales performance, Rainmakers is your partner in success.
Why Choose Rainmakers?
End-to-End Training Programs Rainmakers delivers comprehensive training solutions—from conducting a thorough Training Needs Analysis (TNA) to implementing customized programs and evaluating their effectiveness. This ensures measurable results that align with your business objectives.
Practitioner-Led Expertise Our lead trainer, Venchito Tampon, brings real-world experience to the table. As a successful entrepreneur managing multiple ventures, he shares actionable insights that bridge theory and practice, enabling participants to apply what they learn immediately.
Local Expertise with Global Reach Rainmakers combines its deep understanding of the local market with global best practices to provide training solutions that are culturally relevant and internationally competitive.
Specializations:
- Leadership and Management Training: Develop impactful leaders capable of driving organizational success.
- Presentation Skills Training: Equip teams to deliver high-impact presentations with confidence.
- Digital Marketing Training: Stay ahead in the digital age by mastering modern marketing techniques.
- Sales Training: Empower your salesforce with techniques to close deals and build lasting customer relationships.
Rainmakers focuses on actionable, hands-on training designed to drive measurable improvements in workplace performance. With a proven track record of success, Rainmakers stands as a trusted partner for organizations aiming to unlock their full potential.
2. MSS Business Solutions
MSS Business Solutions is dedicated to producing observable and measurable results for individuals and organizations. With a proven track record in Strategic Planning, Team Building, Communication, and Customer Service, MSS ensures that your talent development investments yield tangible outcomes.
Why Choose MSS?
Customized Solutions MSS begins with a scientific assessment of your organization’s needs. This ensures that every program aligns with your company’s goals and values.
Diverse Training Formats Whether you need on-site, off-site, or online training, MSS offers flexible delivery modes, including virtual platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.
Innovative Approaches MSS incorporates entertainment into its training methods to make learning engaging and memorable. Founder Myron Sta. Ana, also known as the #CorporateEnterTrainer, brings energy and humor to every session, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Specializations:
- Strategic Planning: Enable leaders to align resources and initiatives for long-term success.
- Team Building: Foster collaboration and unity within teams.
- Communication Training: Improve interpersonal and professional communication skills.
- Customer Service: Equip employees to deliver exceptional service and enhance customer loyalty.
MSS Business Solutions’ holistic approach ensures long-lasting results, making it a go-to provider for organizations aiming to empower their workforce.
3. Inspire Leadership Consultancy
Inspire Leadership Consultancy is synonymous with excellence in executive development. Specializing in Executive Leadership and Change Management, the firm empowers leaders to navigate the complexities of modern business environments.
Why Choose Inspire Leadership?
World-Class Expertise Founded by Francis Kong, a recipient of the Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) Award, Inspire Leadership draws from his decades of experience as a business columnist, entrepreneur, and leadership coach.
Practical Insights Francis Kong’s expertise spans leadership development, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. He has authored 19 books and provided mentorship to top executives in the Philippines.
Specializations:
- Executive Leadership: Build strategic decision-making and visionary leadership skills.
- Change Management: Equip leaders with tools to drive and manage organizational change effectively.
Inspire Leadership’s programs are designed to develop high-performing executives who can inspire their teams to achieve extraordinary results. Its focus on strategic leadership ensures organizations remain competitive in today’s ever-changing landscape.
4. BusinessWorks Inc.
Led by Anthony Pangilinan, BusinessWorks Inc. specializes in developing individuals and organizations through tailored training programs and consulting services.
Why Choose BusinessWorks?
Broad Expertise With over 25 years of experience, Anthony Pangilinan brings a wealth of knowledge in leadership, communication, and organizational development.
Social Responsibility BusinessWorks also engages in advocacy projects, including initiatives to rescue and support vulnerable children through its partnership with Called to Rescue Philippines.
Specializations:
- Leadership Development: Cultivate leaders who can inspire and drive change.
- Organizational Communication: Enhance collaboration and understanding within teams.
- Advocacy Training: Equip individuals to make a positive societal impact.
BusinessWorks Inc. combines a strong commitment to excellence with a passion for driving positive change in both individuals and organizations. Its impactful training programs are designed to inspire and empower.
5. Breakthrough Leadership Management Consultancy, Inc.
Breakthrough Leadership specializes in Leadership and Management, Change Management, and Training Design and Delivery. With a focus on practical applications, Breakthrough Leadership helps organizations achieve sustainable growth.
Why Choose Breakthrough Leadership?
Proven Expertise Led by Boris Joaquin, an internationally certified corporate trainer and columnist, Breakthrough Leadership offers world-class training tailored to the Filipino context.
Holistic Development Breakthrough’s programs address both technical competencies and soft skills, ensuring participants are well-rounded leaders.
Specializations:
- Leadership and Management: Develop effective leaders at all organizational levels.
- Change Management: Navigate the complexities of organizational transitions with ease.
- Training Design and Delivery: Craft and deliver impactful learning experiences.
Breakthrough Leadership is committed to transforming leaders into catalysts for positive change in their organizations. Its dynamic training modules ensure that businesses are equipped to face modern challenges with confidence and skill.
These top training providers in the Philippines stand out for their expertise, innovation, and commitment to delivering impactful learning experiences. Whether you’re looking to enhance leadership capabilities, improve communication, or drive organizational change, these firms offer specialized programs to meet your needs. By choosing the right partner, you’re investing in the success and sustainability of your organization.
How to Conduct Leadership Training: Step-by-Step Guide For Effective Design and Delivery
Leadership training is a cornerstone of talent development in many organizations. The more equipped leaders are, the better the organization's future and ability to sustain success.
Many organizations' leadership training programs are attractive to younger workforce generations, especially Gen Z, who prioritize career growth and skill development (based on Deloitte Global 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey).
Truthfully, leadership training is essential for talent recruitment and retention, so every L&D and HR practitioner must know how to implement the programs effectively.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to conduct leadership training and even share some of my experiences as a corporate trainer facilitating results-oriented leadership training programs.
How to Conduct Leadership Training?
1. Secure Top Management and Stakeholder Support
Any success of leadership training programs begins with buy-in from top management and key stakeholders.
While this shouldn’t be at the top of the conservative list when conducting leadership training, I find it a bottleneck for many HR practitioners as they move to the next phase of training—delivery. They could design the training program well enough, but they would find it difficult to ask participants to attend the training if it is not fully supported by key stakeholders right at the start.
Before anything else, create a business case or proposal and present it to top management and key stakeholders. Share your plans and clearly communicate the benefits of the leadership program, including its potential impact on employee work, performance, retention rates, and organizational growth.
You may include case studies and data reports to build the credibility of your proposal. It is best if you can find available data that’s locally contextualized here in the Philippines.
If you are a learning and development manager, you can establish a steering committee to oversee the training initiative, from requests for training budgets to the evaluation of the leadership training program.
2. Conduct a Training Needs Analysis
By identifying gaps in leadership competencies, you’ll have a solid benchmark of where to start your leadership training. This will also be the basis of your training evaluation if you can close any leadership competency gaps.
Competency gaps could be either problem-focused or growth-focused. Problem-focused competency gaps refer to any problems in the knowledge, skills, and attitude of your leaders that need to be addressed; otherwise, they would be detrimental and, worse, could affect the culture of the team and organization.
Conversely, growth-based gaps refer to potential improvement in the competencies—including specific KSA (knowledge, skills, and attitude of your leaders)—that you want your participants to level up with.
You can check out this guide on how to do training needs analysis.
Here are a few TNA gathering methods:
- Focus group discussions (FGD)
- Interviews with key beneficiaries
- Job materials and work documents
- Surveys and questionnaires
- Feedback systems
- Incident reports and problem logs
These are just a few, but they can help you start gathering more information about your leadership training needs.
3. Prepare a Proposal and Budget
Prepare a TNA plan and proposal after conducting a training needs analysis. The document should outline the program’s objectives, expected outcomes, and financial requirements.
Not only will it help you secure funding, but it will also provide a guide for management and stakeholders to understand the process of your leadership training.
Here’s what to include in the proposal:
- Training objectives and alignment with business goals.
- Target audience and selection criteria.
- Detailed cost estimates (e.g., trainer fees, materials, venue, food, etc..).
- A timeline for development and delivery.
Budgeting is critical—factor in all possible expenses and present a cost-benefit analysis to demonstrate ROI. This is where you need to research the available options for conducting a leadership training program: doing it in-house with your trainer or hiring a corporate training provider to facilitate and deliver the program.
You may want to check out this guide on how much leadership training costs in the Philippines.
Now, this goes to our next step:
4. Decide Between In-house or Outsourced Training
There are many upsides and drawbacks to conducting leadership training programs or outsourcing to a corporate training provider.
Doing it in-house is less costly and can foster and develop an internal learning culture, as participants are challenged to learn from each session conducted by internal trainers.
I find this effective for multinational companies with more than 100 employees. In this particular case, they simply hire in-house trainers who specialize in competencies such as leadership and are accredited in many local and global certifications to be credible enough to do facilitation in-house. It is a different story if you’re working in a startup or SME, as it doesn’t have this type of leverage.
Outsourced training is ideal for accessing expert trainers who can deliver leadership training at the highest level. Given that these trainers have conducted the same program multiple times and can customize it based on the context of the organization and its participants, you’ll see a much better outcome from their training.
Another overlooked advantage of outsourcing leadership training is getting fresh perspectives outside your organization. Typically, when learning revolves around each company employee, there is a tendency for limited learning. If you hire an external leadership trainer, you can acquire new insights and best practices on specific leadership competencies that could elevate the skills of your target participants.
These insights may include patterns that the corporate trainer assesses in his career of training different sets of clients—thus allowing him to see which strategy, tool, or tip actually works for a certain industry.
Another thing: the best upside for getting outside trainers is the training content itself—you wouldn’t simply access it if you conducted leadership training in-house. Either you attend public seminars offered by the preferred corporate training provider or hire them exclusively—both options can give you access to the trainer's premium content.
Assuming you’re doing it in-house as you want the leadership training program to be cost-effective, here are some actionable tips for effective leadership training program design:
- Incorporate interactive elements like real-time surveys (e.g., Mentimeter), simulations, role-playing, and case studies contextualized to your industry or organization.
- Add modules on relevant topics such as leadership communication, diversity and inclusion, culture building, and digital transformation.
- Tailor content to different leadership levels, from emerging leaders to senior managers. It could be a series of leadership courses or coupled with individual coaching sessions for each participant.
5. Implement the Leadership Training Program
If you outsource leadership training, the corporate trainer will 70 to 90% implement the leadership training program.
But of course, there are a few things you should do to assist them in ensuring they’ll perfectly implement the training program. Not considering these can likely cause leadership training to fail.
Things you should assist corporate trainers with include:
- Preparing the training venue beforehand (ensure you book it if it’s outside your office vicinities, e.g., hotel function room).
- Ask the corporate trainer if any materials are needed (e.g., Manila paper, flipcharts, whiteboard, etc.).
- Be hospitable to your corporate training company. Make them feel you want to partner for a successful leadership training event.
For internal (no outsourced) leadership training, you can use various teaching methods to cater to the different learning styles of your target participants. Effective methods are:
- Workshops: Encourage active participation and group discussions.
- Role-Playing: Help participants practice real-world scenarios in a safe environment.
- Case Studies: Analyze real-life challenges to develop problem-solving skills.
- Blended Learning: Combine in-person sessions with online modules for flexibility.
Your implementation phase of the training program highly depends on the availability and level of your participants. So be sure to identify them even during the TNA process.
6. Evaluate the Effectiveness of Leadership Training
The only way to measure whether the leadership training impacts your target beneficiaries and the organization is to have it evaluated. Training evaluation is crucial for identifying areas for improvement.
Here’s a structured approach based on Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Evaluation to help assess your leadership training program. It covers:
- Reaction: Collect participant feedback on the training experience. You can use post-training feedback or evaluation forms.
- Learning: Test knowledge acquisition through quizzes or assessments.
- Behavior: Observe changes in workplace performance (e.g. performance reviews).
- Results: Measure the training’s impact on business metrics like employee engagement and productivity (i.e. ROI analysis to assess financial benefits versus costs).
Based on evaluation results, refine the program for future iterations to ensure continuous improvement. This can also help you strategize whether to retain the outsourced corporate training provider or hire a different one to customize your team's programs better.
Invest In Your Future Leaders
Leadership training is a strategic investment in your workforce and organization. By following these structured steps—securing management support, analyzing needs, preparing a solid proposal, choosing the right program, implementing effectively, and evaluating outcomes—you can create a training initiative that fosters strong leaders, drives engagement, and aligns with business objectives.
This approach meets the demands of today’s workforce and positions your organization for long-term success.
Best Leadership Training Programs in the Philippines in 2025 (Reviewed)
You’re probably an HR practitioner, event organizer, and in-house learning and development officer looking for ways to improve your people through leadership courses.
Let me give you five of the best leadership training programs in the Philippines, some of which I’ve personally attended (Venchito speaking), and you can attest to the level of content and insights you’ll get from them.
I’ve shared my best insights and what I think the leadership program is for.
Best Leadership Training Programs in the Philippines
1. Modern-Day Leadership Training Program By Rainmakers
I know it’s weird to take this on top of the list of leadership training programs in the Philippines. But I highly believe in our own leadership training course.
Some of our recent clients include companies such as Ordermo.ph, Ibarra Events and Catering, Cocolife, Lingaro, Emmronn, Maroon Studios and SM Leisure Resorts. These brands hired me (Venchito) to conduct a comprehensive leadership training program for their leaders at different levels in their organizations.
Modern-Day Leadership Training program is designed for managers, supervisors, soon-to-be-promoted leaders, and executives to upgrade their skills and attitude in learning their people.
With the new workforce (Gen Zs), this leadership program aims to give you upgraded and relevant information on the challenges leaders face today, including multi-generational communication issues.
By focusing on these five pillars (see image below), we can help you develop the right leadership style centered on values that can guide your team toward getting results for your company or organization.
These five pillars include:
- Modeling – Lead by Example
- Connecting – Lead by Heart
- Visioneering – Lead with Direction
- Empowering – Lead in Trust
- Modeling – Lead through Collaboration
Previous clients who requested this topic from Venchito include:
What makes the Modern-Day Leadership Program different?
1. It is centered on values.
Other leadership programs may be focused on developing skills, which is greatly important in today’s changing business landscape. However, I still believe in building the proper foundation of character for leaders.
If leaders operate on their personal values, aligning them hopefully with the values of their organization, they can be more effective in handling people in such a way that they do more than what is required of them.
They cater to the needs of their people instead of only trying to satisfy their desires and needs.
2. It contains relevant information.
I loved books, but some of the leadership books may not be relevant to today’s leadership culture. Leadership trainers must continually upgrade their materials to be more relevant in how organizations develop their leaders.
With the rise of technology and automation, how can leaders adapt to employees’ ever-changing needs and changing business landscape?
You can see the relevance factor in corporate training materials when the Filipino corporate trainer provides real-life examples and case studies in the workplace. All these give insights that training participants can take home to their workplaces.
3. It guides participants to develop leadership habits.
Modern-Day Leadership Program gives you a framework for the habits you have to build as leaders and tools and strategies you can utilize in different leadership situations.
When you’re still starting as a leader and have been leading people for a while, there are specific leadership theories and principles you must adapt to that situation.
Habits will help you teach discipline in your leadership life. That said, with our leadership training program, you can experience how to build healthy habits to support your everyday leadership role.
Bring Modern-Day Leadership Program To Your Company
Invite Venchito Tampon and his team to conduct a Modern-Day Leadership Training program so you can upgrade the leadership skills of your employees and executives. Contact us to set an initial meeting and get a free quotation.
2. Level Up Leadership by Francis Kong
Considered the top-ranked speaker, trainer, and business consultant, Francis Kong’s best-selling training program has helped thousands of leaders from different organizations across different industries.
I (Venchito) personally attended his Level Up Leadership in 2019, and I would say I’m a recipient of the valuable lessons and insights from Mr. Francis Kong himself.
What I liked about Level Up Leadership?
- Leadership methodologies from different generations. Mr. Francis Kong will show you how leadership has evolved over 50 years from how Baby Boomers used leadership as a tool to manage their business to where it is today, working with the Generation Z workforce.
- It is centered on values. Though Mr. Kong will show you the exemplary leadership skills to pursue, including how to ask relevant questions and engage your people, you won’t miss topics about values and character development.
- The subject “servant leadership” is included in the program. As far as I remember, it is one of the last topics he discussed that shared how Jesus led his 12 disciples – which is the most impactful part of the program.
- Relevant case studies and group discussions. Mr. Francis wants his audience to engage with one another, which means group activities where sharing and discussion are highly encouraged. I loved this part because you’ll have plenty of time to network with like-minded individuals and learn how they apply leadership in their respective industries.
Who does Level Up Leadership cater to?
Intermediate to advanced-level leaders, i.e., executives, deans of schools and colleges, government officials, and high-level directors and managers. Most topics are advanced and well thought out towards a high-level knowledge. That said, the program is still excellent and applicable for newbie leaders.
3. Moving into Management by Boris Joaquin
This is another leadership training I attended in 2019.
Boris Joaquin is one of the premier leadership corporate trainers in the country. Having been sought by the top 1000 corporations and SME leaders, Boris knew how to conduct leadership training that could best serve his audience.
What I liked about Moving into Management?
- Easy to understand principles of management and leadership, i.e., the fundamental differences between management and leadership.
- Group activities to help you understand better yourself as leaders and how to apply specific topics to everyday living.
- Plenty of time to network with other corporate leaders.
- Fun and light environment. You would find yourself having fun while learning at the same time.
- Excellent workbook I can take home and get more insights from.
Who does Moving into Management cater to?
Moving into Management program is catered to rank-and-file employees or any position soon-to-be organization leaders. It is a preparatory training to help them understand what management and leadership is all about.
I believe this program isn’t for advanced-level leaders. However, some of the principles still apply to executives and directors in the company.
4. Step Back Leadership by Lloyd Luna
I haven’t attended any Step Back leadership program of Lloyd Luna. Yet, based on the videos and stories he posted, I can attest that his leadership program has truly helped many leaders in different organizations.
What I liked about Step Back Leadership
- Step Back Leadership is rooted in how ancient leaders lead their people and conduct succession planning programs.
- Local context. You would find the difference between how local leaders and Western counterparts lead their organizations. There is a significant difference; you would understand the principles behind how we are wired to be led.
- Simple to understand. You can have this leadership program for every level of employee – rank-and-file, managers, supervisors, and executives.
5. John Maxwell Leadership Trainings
Certified John Maxwell Trainers, including Ardy Abello, Anthony Pangilinan, and Mondo Castro, also brought Western leadership programs here.
Needless to say, Dr. John Maxwell is considered the world’s leadership expert who has written hundreds of books on leadership and success.
This is a testament to his global impact and the value and quality of his leadership programs.
What I liked about John Maxwell’s Leadership Training:
- Timeless principles. John Maxwell is pretty good at creating laws for every topic, including communication, leadership, and success. These laws are evergreen and can be applied to every context, industry, organization, country, and age.
- Simplicity. You don’t have to be highly educated to understand his principles. Maxwell is pretty good at simplifying things and making it easy for you to apply in everyday life.
- Inspirational. Most Maxwell training programs and books have an element of inspiration in them. Even just reading his books, you’ll feel a sense of inspiration to take action and level up your leadership game.
Key Takeaways
That’s it. Those are leadership training programs in the Philippines, some I’ve personally attended and reviewed, so you know what to expect in the corporate training.
If you’re looking for a corporate trainer to level up your leaders, contact us for a free quote on our Modern-Day Leadership Program.