| I work with a trainer and it has been a wonderful experience. He is very knowledgeable - both in things like anatomy and in terms of nutrition advice in addition to planning challenging workouts that push me but don't leave me unable to move the next day.
My gym provides two orientation sessions with a trainer with membership and I was matched with him after I talked to the membership director about my goals - which were somewhat broad - to lose weight, to exercise three days a week, and to change my life. I have lost 70 pounds, I have found that I love lifting, and my life is better in so many ways that I can't begin to list them.
What has made this work for me is that we are a good match personality-wise - I enjoy the sessions, he seems to know when I need a little lecture and when I need a little encouragement, and he has moved me along at a pace that was comfortable to me.
For a lot of people, the structure of scheduled time wiht someone isn't necessary, but for me that has been key. I know that he is expecting me (and doesn't get paid if I don't show up) so I have to leave work and go to the gym. I know he will ask about what I did between sessions, both workout wise and food wise. I know that just when things seem like they are getting easier he will up the degree of difficulty. All I have to do is show up and lift.
So, I guess the way I think you choose a good trainer for you is by finding someone who will listen to your goals and who you feel comfortable with. After a few sessions if you don't see progress you can always switch to someone else or try on your own.  | 
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