Raising the Bar: How to Elevate Engagement in Virtual Training Today

When COVID-19 first pushed us all into remote work, virtual training was about survival. We were patient with technical glitches, forgiving of lackluster slides, and content to just make it through the session. Simply having the technology to connect was enough. At one point Deb moved her office into a motorhome to teach PMA classes so she could drive to the fastest internet speeds around before connecting.  LOL!

Fast forward to today, and the expectations have evolved dramatically. As professionals, we no longer settle for passive participation. Our virtual environments need to be as dynamic and interactive as our in-person engagements. It's time to raise the game.

Initially, virtual training was rushed. Facilitators and participants alike were grappling with unfamiliar platforms, awkward audio issues, and the infamous "You're on mute" moments. But the novelty has worn off. Today, sophisticated digital literacy is a baseline expectation. Attendees want fluid experiences, meaningful interactions, and sessions that respect their time while delivering real value.  Here are the six strategies we are employing at PMA Philadelphia and hope they can be helpful to you, as well.

Strategies for Next-Level Virtual Training

Based on the latest 2025 workforce education research, here are six key strategies to elevate your Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT):

1. Prioritize Learner Engagement Make engagement the centerpiece of VILT design. Use polls, quizzes, breakout discussions, collaborative activities, and storytelling to draw learners into active participation. Incorporate a poll or Q&A every 5-10 minutes and encourage webcams or chat to keep the session lively. The more learners are involved, the less likely they are to tune out.
2. Leverage Data and Analytics Track metrics like attendance duration, participation rates, quiz scores, and feedback ratings. With 41% of organizations emphasizing engagement analytics, this data can pinpoint drop-off moments or areas needing improvement, driving continuous improvement and proving ROI.
3. Adopt Flexible and Blended Learning Models Given that 62% of learners prioritize flexible delivery, combine synchronous VILT with asynchronous resources like self-paced modules, recorded sessions, and reading materials. Flexible scheduling accommodates time zones and work commitments, improving attendance and reducing fatigue.
4. Provide Coaching and Support Combat the isolation of virtual learning by supplementing with coaching or mentoring. The study highlights that 45% of organizations are enhancing VILT with coaching. Post-session follow-ups, like one-on-one coaching or small group application sessions, reinforce learning and drive accountability.
5. Enhance Instructor Skills and Toolkit Equip instructors with a robust "toolkit" of best practices and platform features, from whiteboards to breakout rooms. Regularly use icebreakers, check-ins, and energizers to maintain engagement. A skilled, energetic instructor sets the tone for an engaging session.
6. Continuous Improvement and Feedback Treat virtual training as an iterative process. Gather feedback after each session and analyze engagement data to refine future training. If data reveals a drop in engagement mid-session, split the content or add an interactive element at that point to maintain energy.

Mindset Matters: We are all "Experience" Designers

Beyond mastering the tools, facilitators need to adopt the mindset of an "experience" designer. PMA facilitators plan for engagement at every stage, vary content delivery to suit different learning styles, and build moments for reflection and peer interaction.  We believe attendees should leave feeling energized, not exhausted. By designing experiences rather than simply delivering information, trainers create environments where learning sticks.

Final Thoughts

The virtual training landscape has matured, and so must our approach. By embracing these data-driven strategies and adopting an experience-first mindset, we can transform virtual learning from a checkbox activity into a genuinely engaging and productive experience. Busy professionals deserve nothing less.  As the latest research underscores, making VILT more engaging, interactive, and intelligently managed will help close the effectiveness gap, leading to better skilled, more connected learners in the workforce.

Sources: Findings and recommendations are based on the 2025 workforce education research study by Training Magazine in partnership with Microsoft and Class.