Jo Leckie, CEO and Founder of Big Picture Training, shares her thoughts on building strong training partnerships
At Big Picture Training, we know that strong relationships between organisations and their training providers are essential for success. A great partnership isn’t just about delivering a training session, it’s about working together to create lasting impact. So, how can you be a great customer and foster a truly productive collaboration? Here are some key ways to make your training partnerships thrive.
1. Communicate Clearly and Openly
Clear, open communication is the foundation of any successful partnership. Be upfront about your goals, expectations, and challenges. The more your training provider understands your needs, the better they can tailor their solutions to deliver real value.
2. Build Trust and Mutual Respect
Trust goes both ways. Respect your training provider’s expertise and insights—they bring valuable industry knowledge and experience to the table. A trusted partnership creates space for innovation and continuous improvement.
3. Embrace Collaboration
Great learning outcomes come from teamwork. Involve your training provider in discussions, share feedback regularly, and encourage co-creation. Brainstorming solutions together leads to more impactful learning experiences.
4. Ensure Timely Payments
Paying invoices on time may seem like a small thing, but it has a big impact. Reliable cash flow allows your training provider to operate smoothly and focus on delivering high-quality service without distractions.
5. Create a Continuous Feedback Loop
Feedback is essential for growth. Share constructive feedback—both positive and areas for improvement—to help your training provider refine their approach. A culture of continuous feedback benefits everyone.
6. Think Long-Term
Training is an ongoing journey, not a one-off event. A long-term perspective helps both you and your provider plan for future needs, adapt to industry changes, and develop programs that grow with your organisation.
7. Be Transparent
When training providers understand your organisation’s challenges, values, and goals, they can align their approach more effectively. Transparency fosters a stronger, more strategic partnership.
8. Recognise and Appreciate Effort
Acknowledgment goes a long way. Recognising the hard work, dedication, and expertise of your training provider strengthens the relationship and encourages continued excellence.
9. Lead by Example: Embed the Learning
Training doesn’t end when the session is over. Show commitment by actively embedding learning within your organisation. Reinforce key takeaways, support on-the-job application, and champion a culture of continuous development.
A Two-Way Street
A successful partnership with your training provider is about more than just service delivery, it’s about collaboration, trust, and shared goals. When both sides invest in the relationship, the results are stronger, more impactful, and beneficial for everyone involved.
About Big Picture Training
At Big Picture Training, we specialise in customer experience and leadership development training for the social housing sector. We work with organisations to develop practical, engaging learning solutions that create real change.
Our approach is built on collaboration, industry expertise, and a commitment to making a difference.
If you’re looking for a training partner who truly understands the housing sector and is invested in your success, contact us.