When it comes to career development, it isn't just employees who benefit.
Staff training allows you to enhance your workforce whilst improving productivity, skills, and performance. By growing your staff's skills and talents, you're able to directly increase your output and revenue.
But there are consequences to neglecting staff training, which can affect business loyalty, motivation, and retention.
In this guide, we'll look at what staff training is, examples of training to use, and how to deliver applicable courses for your workplace.
What is staff training?
Staff training is a workplace scheme which provides employees with specific skills and knowledge for their job.
This type of training benefits employees on all levels of work. They range from offering mandatory corporate training to senior members of your workforce. Or providing introductory training to new employees.
Training isn't just useful for new staff. It's just as important to offer long-term employees the same courses for career development.
What are examples of employee training courses?
There are many forms of training and development courses you can use. It all depends on your business needs, work roles, and individual staff members.
There isn't one set method that all training needs. Employers should implement ones that benefit their organisation overall. You can utilise various techniques and services; like role playing, e-learning, and lectures.
Here are examples of staff training courses you can utilise:
Mandatory training
This is a course which has been set by legal regulations or guidelines. Staff are required to complete this training, so they can perform tasks to the safest standards.
For example, you might set out mandatory training on safety regulations which protects employees. (As well as customers, clients, and the general public).
Management training
This type of training enables senior managers to oversee their team appropriately.
Most companies will provide training courses like this for existing managers. But they can also be offered to employees who are looking to be promoted to this role.
For example, a well-trained manager will apply safety responsibilities which comply with their company regulations.
Work shadowing
This is when an employee follows another colleague throughout their workday to establish their role.
Work shadowing generally occurs within the same company. The 'shadow' employee gains further insight, knowledge, and experience on the other role. This can benefit their current role or provide understanding for a future position.
Technical training
This form of training is used when an employee wants to apply technical knowledge and understanding for a job.
It's commonly used in computing and new technology-based fields. Here, employees are required to have specific knowhow on equipment and techniques. They may receive training and development opportunities for overall protocols within their company. Or a specified training course for individual projects.
Other examples of staff training
There are other examples of staff training you may choose to implement, like:
- Onboarding.
- Outsourced.
- Internal training.
- Industry conferences.
- Orientation.
Why is staff training important?
There are several benefits you can obtain from staff training for all parties. Here are reasons why staff training is important for employers and employees:
- It improves productivity and efficiency during projects.
- It provides accountability (for an individual employee and group).
- It establishes standards for the workforce.
- It presents a transparent company structure.
- It opens opportunities for employee development.
How to deliver training to your employees
Every employer genuinely wants the best for their business - and this includes their workforce.
When your staff don't know how to complete their tasks efficiently, it affects the company on a whole. That's why investing in training is important–ensuring everyone receives the right tools to work with confidence and efficiency.
Here are ways to deliver training in your employees:
Select suitable training sessions
Many businesses will seek ways to improve staff skills and performance. That's why it's important to cater to these differences and select suitable training sessions.
Remember, people learn in a variety of ways. If you only implement one form of training or education, you significantly limit their chances for development.
Ask your staff which training methods they work best with. Some may prefer interactive tools, whilst others like auditory means.
You can hire a professional trainer who's knowledgeable in delivering courses. Or you can allow a confident and trained manager to perform sessions for their team.
Develop a consistent training course
Once you've gathered which methods are beneficial, develop a consistent training course.
Make sure all training is done with commitment across the whole organisation. All staff should have access to the same training–regardless of when they joined or what their role is.
Identify any development opportunities
Every employee will have their own level of capability or skills. Where one will prosper, others may lack.
Identify development opportunities for your staff to train themselves for the better. Highlight any gaps in their knowledge and practice appropriate training to the highest standard.
Create a culture of learning
It's important for staff members to feel like valued and investible members of the business. When they do, they'll showcase motivation, engagement, and support–growing business success.
Create a culture of learning within your business. Make sure all managers highlight the importance of learning and development. You need to prepare courses properly and maintain completion levels.
Review the training outcome
After implementing courses for a suitable time, review the outcome of the training.
Determine whether the sessions have worked. Your staff need to understand what is required of them–for their role and the overall business.
Use performance appraisals methods like e-learning tests and practical demonstrations, to see if training has worked. And identify areas which need improving (this data can be collected from your dedicated trainer).
Get expert advice on staff training with Peninsula
When it comes to training, it might seem like only your staff benefit. But training courses are beneficial for the employer and their company (in more ways than you'd think).
By developing staff skills, you're guaranteed to grow loyalty, achievements, and retention. Remember, if you neglect to train your staff, you risk losing talented employees to rivalling competitors.
Peninsula offers expert advice on staff training services. Our team offers unlimited 24-hour HR advice which is available 365 days a year.
Want to find out more? Book a free chat with one of our HR consultants. For further support, call 0800 028 2420.
