Often, skill gaps result from a lack of training or mentoring. This is where employee training can play a vital role in bridging this gap of knowledge, skillsets, and experiences by providing employees with an opportunity to learn new skills and refresh their minds about topics that they might have forgotten about.
The process of training employees is crucial for their continued growth within the organization and their personal development.
Types of Employee Training Methods
Various approaches could be used to train employees.
1. Classroom-based education
Classroom-based education is usually provided by an instructor who teaches the material using lectures, demonstrations and other hands-on activities. It's often used when you need to learn something quickly, but it doesn't require much time commitment.
2. Online training
Online training is another popular choice. These courses are typically self-paced and allow you to study on your schedule. They can be accessed through websites, apps or software.
3. Virtual reality
Virtual reality is also being used more frequently for training. Virtual reality simulates real-life situations so that you can practice them without risking injury or damage.
You can also take advantage of virtual reality training if you're looking to sharpen your skills in areas like architecture, engineering, design, construction, manufacturing, medicine, law and many other fields.
4. Video conferencing
Video conferencing allows you to interact with instructors and fellow students while they teach. It's perfect for people who live far away from each other.
5. Self-study
Self-study is a good option if you don't need any guidance from an instructor. You simply read the materials and follow along with the lessons.
6. Mentorship
Mentorship involves working closely with someone who has already mastered the skill you wish to acquire. For example, if you're interested in becoming a web developer, you could sign up for a mentorship program with a professional web designer.
7. Coaching
Coaching is similar to mentorship, except that you work with a coach who helps you develop your skills instead of learning directly from someone else.
8. Practical experience
Practical experience is similar to mentoring because you get direct instruction from someone who knows what they're doing. However, you'll still benefit from having someone with expertise guide you through the process.
9. Simulation
Simulation is a great way to prepare for the real world. The best part about simulation is that it lets you experience what you would encounter in the workplace without risk of injury or damage.
10. Roleplaying
Role-playing lets you act out specific scenarios to understand better how to handle different situations. For example, let's say you're about to give a presentation at work. You could role-play as yourself giving the talk and observing how others respond to you.
11. Hands-on Training
Hands-on training allows you to apply what you have learned through lectures and videos. You get to try out new tools and techniques in a safe environment.
12. Internship
An internship is when you work alongside an expert in a related field. During this time, you gain practical knowledge and develop valuable skills.
13. Work shadowing
Work shadowing is when you follow someone around as they do their daily tasks.
Effective Strategies for Choosing the Best Training Program
When choosing the best training program for your company, various factors should be considered. Let's explore some of the most important ones and provide recommendations on approaching them best.
1) Company Size: Large companies have a more significant budget, which means they may be able to afford more expensive software. Smaller businesses or startups might need a cheaper option or one that is more affordable over time.
2) Learning Style: Each person learns differently depending on whether they prefer active or passive learning styles.
3) Budget: A company's budget will determine what it can afford in terms of pricing and functionality.
4) Industry: If you work within a specific industry, you'll want to consider its unique characteristics. These include technology trends, market size, and business culture.
5) Expertise Level Required: What is the expected outcome of the training. Is it just to provide a beginner-level introduction, or is it to learn how to apply a particular concept in a complex environment.
6) Type of Training Needed: This refers to the kind of skills needed by employees. Some examples include:
• Business Skills (e.g., project management):
• Technical Skills (e.g. programming languages):
• Soft Skills (e.g., communication, teamwork):
7) Timeframe: When does the training need to happen? Will it be done during office hours or after work hours? It may also depend on whether you plan to offer ongoing support.
Conclusion
Training is not something that happens once and never again. It must be repeated regularly so that people keep up with current practices and procedures. The proper training provides benefits such as increased productivity, improved morale and retention, and better customer service.