In times of increasing digitalization—with e-learning, webinars, and virtual training offerings—the question often arises: Is in-person training still necessary? Especially when it comes to complex topics, managers, interactive processes, or sensitive content, there is much to suggest that in-person events are still (and perhaps even especially) useful.
Recently I started a three-day in-house training for management and commercial employees. Following this, I shared a post on LinkedIn that received a very positive response—which encourages me to explore the topic in more depth here on my website.
In this article I explain why classroom training is often the smarter investment are – and for whom they are particularly worthwhile – interaction instead of monologue!
The main advantage of classroom training is the Interactivity:
Spontaneous discussions & questions: Questions, thoughts, and objections arise in the room and can be addressed immediately – not in long chat threads or postponed email replies.
Dynamic response to needs: The trainer can adjust the learning pace, provide additional examples, or delve deeper into topics if the need arises.
Group work, role plays, simulations: Methods that require proximity, eye contact, facial expressions, body language – these work better in person than digitally.
Network effects & group dynamics: The social exchange among participants creates added value that goes beyond pure knowledge – for example through a change of perspective, peer learning or informal impulses.
This type of learning is not only “better” in the sense of “more effective,” but also strengthens the commitment of participants – they feel included, seen, and taken seriously.
This means that learning is not just understood as a “transition”, but as an experience and engagement.
Of course, classroom training is logistically more complex and often more expensive (travel costs, room, catering, seminar costs). But you should always think in relation to the benefit and added value achieved:
Costs of wrong decisions: Poorly trained managers or employees often cause higher costs through errors, inefficiency, communication problems or even legal risks.
Higher learning outcomes: When content is better anchored and applied immediately, the costs are quickly amortized.
Image & Appreciation: A company that invests in high-quality training sends a signal to employees and partners: “We take our (and your) development seriously.”
Return over time: A unique seminar lives on – through inspiration, changed behaviors, networking, and transfer into everyday work.
Therefore, from the client's perspective, face-to-face training can often deliver "more value for money" than mere e-learning, when the long-term effects are taken into account.
In-person training is particularly suitable if:
Managers and key roles (purchasing, sales, marketing) are trained – because emotional, strategic, and communicative elements often dominate here.
Complex content or legally sensitive topics are dealt with where queries are important.
Behavioral change is sought, not just imparting knowledge.
Team dynamics and internal coordination play a role – e.g. for common values, processes or culture.
Newcomers or mixed formats benefit from face-to-face phases (blended learning) – e.g., on-site kick-off + online follow-up.
If content is more about “standard knowledge, repeatable, low need for interaction,” digital elements can be useful – but ideally embedded in hybrid or blended formats where face-to-face instruction is used in phases.
Needs analysis before: What knowledge do the participants bring with them, where are the gaps?
Limit the number of participants: Groups of 8–15 people enable real exchange.
Use a variety of methods: Lecture, discussion, group work, simulations.
Optimize space & equipment: Flipcharts, presentation materials, good lighting and acoustics.
Ensuring sustainability: Follow-up, tools, written summaries, transfer tasks.
Evaluation & Feedback: Immediately and after some time to measure and adjust effectiveness.
As a legal advisor, my credo is: Classroom training is not a nostalgic throwback, but a strategic investmentWhere interaction, trust, complexity, and people are the focus, face-to-face formats perform significantly better than digital formats.
If you're considering investing in training, consider not just the cost, but also the impact. And if you're looking for high-quality in-person training with legal guidance, interaction, and lasting transfer – then I'd be happy to support you.
Mon-Sat: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Mon-Fri: 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm
and by telephone appointment
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