Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discover trainer variables that act as driving forces on training effectiveness. This can be a catalyst for improving the quality of training outcomes thereby making training firms more competitive as well as bridge the gap in literature. Design/methodology/approach This qualitative research study used the grounded theory methodology. Data analysis was performed using open, axial and selective coding with a discursive set of theoretical propositions emerging. Qualitative data were collected through a focus group, one-on-one interviews and secondary sources. The subjects comprised primarily 26 past participants to the researcher’s firm’s training programs. Findings Seven major trainer attributes – facilitator disposition, real life examples, group work, interaction, participant involvement, stories/illustrations and demonstrations – were recognized by trainees whose post-training appraisals confirm that the training was effective. These trainer attributes combine with environmental factors to trigger trainee characteristics leading to behavior change and performance improvement. Research limitations/implications The paper makes a significant contribution to training evaluation literature. Researchers can take up any of the discovered attributes to further refine training evaluation theories or models. Practical implications New knowledge can be utilized to improve quality training presentations to improve learning outcomes. Organizational performance improvement, which is the desired return on investment of training, can better be achieved. Originality/value The paper goes beyond conceptual models to empirical discovery.

''Power to the people'' is a popular political slogan that is used to convey the essence of democracy and participation. This paper derives from an action research intervention to implement participatory evaluation in a medium-sized private hospital in Nigeria, where the author was a training consultant. While the original objective of the intervention was to improve effectiveness of training through participatory evaluation, the study enabled an important outcome: it helped in clarifying and resolving social power differences prevalent in evaluation. The paper therefore contributes to the theory and practice of action research by describing how a researcher may better understand and relate to others with regard to social power. This plays a potentially useful role especially in participatory evaluation.