Purpose The purpose of this study is to predict the transfer of training (ToT) from management training. This study empirically examined the predictive power of ToT factors, namely, individual characteristics (self-efficacy), training intervention design (training approaches) and work climate (organizational support) among the study respondents. Design/methodology/approach All the proposed research hypotheses were tested through survey data. Data was collected using a questionnaire from managers working in different departments of an Indian public manufacturing organization. A sum of 273 usable data was analyzed, and the structural equation modeling technique was used to test the proposed theoretical model. Findings The study results showed a direct and positive association among self-efficacy, work climate and training intervention design with training transfer. The study findings suggest that self-efficacy, training approaches and organizational support predict ToT. Practical implications The study findings have a beneficial impact on designing and delivering successful management training intervention among managers. To enhance training transfer, organizations could consider all these three factors. A replication of the study in national and international settings would help improve generalizability. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that explored the new relationships of selected factors with ToT in management training. An improved understanding of the interactive impact of self-efficacy, training approaches and organizational support on the ToT is provided.

Purpose This study aims to advance understanding of the critical role of training variables (trainer performance, transfer design and an identical element) and motivation to improve work through learning (MTIWL) the least researched construct of motivation in human resource development (HRD). Design/methodology/approach A self-report online survey was conducted to collect responses from 280 managers working in different industries. Participants attended open skills training program organized by an in-house training institute in India. Findings The trainer performance and transfer design had a positive and significant impact on MTIWL. However, an identical element found no significant direct impact on MTIWL. Practical implications The trainer performance positively cultivates trainees’ MTIWL and training approaches according to trainees’ preferences improve MTIWL. The training content is needed to resemble with work assignment for enhancement of trainees MTIWL. Originality/value This study improved understanding of the impact of training variables on a comprehensive and practical aspect of trainees' motivation in HRD, MTIWL.