In stark contrast, a lack of training can contribute to high employee turnover, with 40% of employees abandoning their posts within a year because of inadequate training.
Generally, methods for training employees fall into two categories: On-the-job training and off-the-job training. A combination of different training methods yields the best success. What’s more, everyone learns differently.
Some people are visual learners who prefer seeing or watching. Others are auditory learners who retain the information better after hearing it. Kinesthetic learners learn best by doing and action.
Let’s take a look at how to train employees, with 8 popular techniques:
E-learning has become one of the most popular ways to train employees, with LinkedIn establishing that about 90% of corporations have used digital learning in the past.
It's easy to see the appeal, employees can access educational materials online through their desktops or smartphones. The training modules often don't need a facilitator.
e-Learning is scalable and self-paced, which accommodates different learning speeds. It can be made more engaging through gamification, introducing tests, and live online interactive sessions.
You’ll need online training software to build and manage e-courses. When evaluating different tools, look for features such as online course builder, mentoring, content management, and reporting. Platforms such as WorkPilot offer all the necessary features and is used by businesses around the world.
Employees can earn ‘on the job’ by performing the relevant tasks that are connected to their core responsibilities. They can practice the skills on their own or shadow other employees as they work. It's a great way to impart skills directly but should usually be supplemented by other training methods.
Coaching focuses on helping employees accomplish a specific professional goal. Companies may seek help from external coaches or assign the work to a supervisor. The premise of mentoring is to foster productive and supportive relationships between employees and mentors, who may be senior members of the organization.
This off-the-job training method takes place in a traditional classroom setting, with the instructor presenting the material by way of lecture and using various learning aids. It's highly suitable for tackling complex topics and communicating a lot of information quickly. Trainees can ask questions and receive prompt replies from the trainer.
Another way to train employees is through group discussions. This training method may take the form of employees preparing papers on a given subject and meeting to discuss them with other trainees. It can also take the form of a panel discussion with the company inviting up to four experts to hold formal discussions.
In this training method, trainees are presented with real-world work scenarios and required to respond. As they act out the scenario, they have to think on their feet. The session may end with a group discussion led by the facilitator. It encourages open discussions, develops communication, and builds confidence.
7. Case Studies
Case study training often involves a facilitator presenting a problematic situation and then asking trainees to analyze and determine the best solutions. It helps to strengthen analytical skills, stimulate decision-making, and enhance -team spirit through group participation.
8. Job Rotation
Job rotation is where you assign new employees to other roles outside the scope of their normal responsibilities and duties. It expands their capabilities and offers an in-depth understanding of the interdependencies between different positions at the company.
There are a lot of great answers to the question of ‘how to train new employees’. The most important thing is to always put some training in place and to have a plan to support it. At a minimum provide e-learning courses to your staff in just a few steps.
