It is sometimes tempting to book and attend as much education & training and events as you can. Often this can be expensive, and can also be dissapointing when the event or education & training does not meet your expectations.

Here are a few suggestions to get you started to ensure you make the correct selections. 

Ensure you either get most of the information from advertised infrmation or contact the organisers direct yourself.

• Is it easy to identify who is hosting/organising the event.
• Are they reputable and you can be confident in paying in advance. What is the cancellation policy, if any.
• Do the organisers & venue have appropriate insurance indemnity. (If REPs Ireland CPD endorsed this will be in place.)

• Ensure that you understand the topic of the event/training. If the topic is unclear, clarify before booking.
• Ensure there is a clear explaination of what the outcome objectives are for the event/training.
• What additional skills or knowledge can you expect at the end of it, if any.

• Do you have the pre requisite knowledge, skills & competency to attend/get the most form the event. Ensure the level the event/training is pitched at will match your needs.
• If the event/training is beyond your current abilities by too much then you may not benefit from attending.
• If the event/training is below your current abilities then you may not benefit from attending.

• Is the venue clearly described, have you checked transport links and travel arrangements to ensure its practical to get there in time for the start and return home after. Is there clear directions and is there parking available.
  • Is the venue suitable to host the type of event/training advertised.
  • What materials will be provided on the day, if any.
  • What equipment/clothing/materials do you need to bring.
  • What food, catering, changing facilities will be available at the venue.
• Who is presenting at the event/training?
• What is their background? Experience? Qualifications? What are the reviews of previous events?
• Has the event been endorsed for REPs Ireland CPD credits? (if it is not it could be simply they have not applied to REPs Ireland for endorsement, or that they did not meet the requirements. If unsure contact us at info@repsireland.ie)
• Is there a set schedule for the day, start 7 finish time, breaks and clear identification of topics to be covered.

Of course there are many other questions that you as an individual may feel is important, and depending on the nature of the event & training. The above list is a minimum that you should check.

The main thing is that you ensure that you have a clear understanding of the event or training that you are considering attending, and that your expectations are in line with what is being offered. this will avoid dissapointment and frustration.

Finally if feedback is requested after the event, please be open & honest, emphasising positively what could be improved (if anything), but also what was good and whether it met with your expectations and was in line with the advertising/promotion of the event.