01 Oct
Survive And Thrive!
Starting your initial training week can feel a bit like swimming in unknown waters. As a trainer, I understand the excitement and nerves that comes with learning a new program and onboarding at Creverse. In this blog post, I will break down the essentials to not just survive your initial training week but to thrive and have fun!
Prep and Print
Before the training week kicks off, make sure to download and print all the materials sent out in your welcome email. This will ensure that you can ask any questions about the material and shows your trainer that you are proactive and prepared.
TIP #1: Having materials on hand helps you engage in the lesson and will make for a smoother learning experience.
Ask Questions!
Don’t hesitate to ask questions! From the trainer’s perspective, I’m here to make concepts clear and do my best to help trainees digest the Creverse curriculum. There’s no such thing as a dumb question, especially during training week. Asking ensures everyone is on the same page.
TIP #2: Accelerate your learning curve by having the confidence to ask questions. After you ask a question, write down the answer to refer back to later.
Practice Out Loud
After prepping for your morning mocks, take it a step further by practicing out loud. Rehearsing the material aloud will help boost your confidence and internalize the curriculum.
TIP #3: During my own training week I would mock teach in front of the mirror in my hotel room. It was awkward at first but helped me get the extra practice I needed.
Embrace a Growth Mindset
One of the biggest struggles I see my trainees face is something I like to call “precision paralysis”. People assume an all-or-nothing attitude that can get in the way of their progress. Your initial training week at Creverse should be about improvement, not perfection!
TIP #4: I encourage taking on a growth mindset which means understanding that steady progress from one day to the next is the goal.
Recharge and Refuel
It’s important that you prioritize your self-care during training week. Getting enough sleep and eating right will help you fight jet lag and ensure that you can come to your training sessions focused and ready to take on the day.
TIP #5: It can be tough to eat healthy when you’re busy but Korean convenience stores have got you covered. Unlike the gas station food you might be used to at home, the refrigerated and hot meal items include options that are well-balanced and quick.
You’ve come a long way, and this is the final step of being a teacher for Creverse! While initial training week can be stressful, remember that your school, the trainers, and your recruiter want nothing less than for you to succeed. Just follow my 5 tips and exhibit a positive attitude, and you will thrive!
Still curious about the initial training week? Check out this post for more details on what you can expect.
Michelle Duquette, Trainer
Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.