Phase 2: Recruitment

Training Cadre Case #2

The Importance of Setting Expectations
Two trainers from a newly formed cadre were charged with conducting trainings on specific topics. Evaluation feedback showed two very different results from each session. Participants in the first session did fun exercises, but left without gaining actionable knowledge. Participants in the second session experienced the opposite. The trainer provided a thorough overview of the topics, opportunities to practice, and a plan for follow-up support. The cadre selection team did not thoroughly review the experience and qualifications of either trainer and was not clear on required competencies during the selection process. Neither trainer was provided with clear expectations. As a result, the less-qualified trainer was not adequately prepared to deliver the training.

Lesson Learned: Thoroughly review experience and qualifications during the selection process and clearly communicate expectations.

Your application form should include the following components:

• Specific need(s) and basic rationale for forming this specific cadre.
• Basic contact information for applicants.
• Expected level of commitment for cadre members.
• Estimated time frame of involvement.
• Required competencies of cadre members.
• Preferred previous experience:
  • Related to the work of the cadre.
  • Worked with the target audience.
  • Built a support base for an initiative.
  • Formed partnerships.
  • Delivered and facilitated trainings and other PD events.
• Selection process and rubric for choosing team members.
• Amount of compensation for members, if any.
• Signature of applicants and appropriate administrator(s) or other approver(s).

You can customize the available rubrics to meet your specific needs so that applicants are clear on how team members will be selected. The rubrics will also assist you in the selection process.

While this process may seem lengthy, refer to Training Cadre Case #2 to learn the importance of having a solid process.

Now that you have received applications from potential cadre members, it is time to screen them to decide who will best contribute to your mission. As part of your screening process, it can be helpful to form a small internal team to review applications, looking for those applicants who:

• Are motivated to achieve the goals.
• Are champions who will make a difference.
• Have demonstrated success in the field.
• Have strong skill sets in communication and delivering trainings and PD events.
• Have knowledge relevant for the work of the cadre.

Characteristics of a Strong Training Cadre

As you review applications, work with your review committee to match applicants against the applicant rating scale, identifying members who will fill specific roles on the cadre and form a high-performing team. View the checklist for Characteristics of High Performing Teams [DOC – 46 KB].

When final selections are made, it is time to contact the candidates to offer the selected applicants placement in the cadre.

Once your cadre is formed, you will want to communicate with the team to schedule a kickoff meeting.

The organization of your training cadre will depend on several factors, such as the size and regional makeup of your organization, the purpose of your cadre, and the number of team members needed.

One approach to an effective cadre structure might consist of one or more representatives from each department, other organizational unit, or partner. For example, you could select one or more individuals within each organizational unit, administrative, and other specialty areas, as illustrated in this sample cadre Organizational Chart [DOC – 44 KB].

The Cadre Organizational Chart is a template that you can customize to help determine the best structure to accomplish your goals. This can then prove invaluable for identifying gaps in representation from particular organizational units or specialty areas.

Examples of Member Roles

	Cadre Member	Role
	Administrator	Champion and advocate. Speak with other administrators and decision makers.
	Physical education teachers	Provide professional development. Join conversations about improving physical education curricula.
	University and college staff	Work with preservice teachers. PD site coordinator.

The kickoff meeting is a unique opportunity to form a dynamic and effective cadre. It sets the tone for the work of the training cadre. Some suggested activities for your kickoff meeting are to:

• Establish group norms for:
  • Participation in meetings.
  • How to address questions that arise.
  • Schedules for how often to meet.
• As a collaborative activity, revisit the purpose of the cadre and discuss your:
  • Vision.
  • Mission.
  • Goals.
  • Objectives.
• Decide on the roles of each team member.
• Identify online collaboration tools to use for working together.

You can customize the Training Cadre Kick-Off Meeting: Agenda [DOC – 41 KB] and use it to facilitate your kickoff meeting.