Is Employee Training Really Worth The Investment?
In a way, employers play a parenting role. They teach us about the world (of work) and provide our basic needs (through salaries). They equip us with the (workplace) skills required to survive. Of course, some "parents" go the extra step. They want to offer them everything they lacked "growing up." Others believe their team should struggle and figure things out on their own. In the corporate space, this latter approach restricts training opportunities. So, what is the importance of employee training to your staff…and your bottom line? Here are 7 conceiving reasons why new employee training software is a wise investment.
1. Personalized Training Resources
The typical manager or executive may be scared if they train employees, they’ll leave for a better job. And it’s a valid concern, so why should they bother? Because a job isn’t a prison. If somebody wants to leave, they will, whether or not you give them the means. So instead of keeping them sub-par, make them more employable. Do it in a way that benefits your company, but one that offers clear value to trainees as well. Personalized employee training gives them the power to detect and address gaps on their own. Which makes them more likely to remain with your organization, given that there’s always an opportunity for growth.
2. Improved Branding
If they feel seen and appreciated, they’re less likely to send out their CVs. Design personalized training paths for each employee. The path should provide skills that make them better at their job, therefore benefitting the company. After all, untrained staff compromise brand quality. But pick a path that appeals to their personal goals as well. Use appraisals, self-assessments, and open communication to find the courses where these two needs (yours and theirs) intersect. On a side note, you’ll also be known as the company that values its employees and gives them training opportunities. Which makes you more attractive to top talent who may want to join your organization.
3. Training Anywhere, Anytime
Most of us train on the job, and it’s not always explicit. Simply by doing your job every day, you get better at it. Practice makes perfect, and repeated exposure boosts knowledge retention. In some workplaces, unfortunately, it’s the only form of "training" you ever get. Anything you learn, you have to teach yourself. Or maybe you can learn by watching those around you. Which can lead to costly mishaps that lower self-confidence and put everyone at risk. That said, workplace training doesn’t have to be restricted to the office. Employee training software facilities anytime, anywhere development. It also minimizes risks, since your team can gain experience in the LMS instead of on the sales floor.
4. Better Office Performance
Sometimes, out-of-office training is more effective. When you carve out time specifically to improve your job skills, you focus more. You’re not distracted by endless tapping keyboards, beeping copiers, or annoying work-mates. Offering a mobile training app lets your staff pursue their training in their own (quiet) space and time. It leaves office hours for office work. It’s also a kind of motivator because they come to the office armed and primed to test their new skills.
5. Improved ROI
As I’ve mentioned, leaving your staff untrained keeps them stagnant. So, while they are less likely to find other jobs, they’re not increasing their value to your brand. Bosses have to weigh the risk of potentially building up other companies vs the fact of stifling their own. Trainees who can see their own growth and progress are happier, more productive, and less restless. They achieve a good work-life balance so they’re less likely to be tempted by passing job offers. Employee training software also reduces seat time and improves knowledge retention, which is a win-win for your bottom line.
6. Enhanced Profits
Think about it. That profit you think they’ll take elsewhere? If you train them well, they’ll raise revenues for your own firm. And their positive attitude is contagious, so the cycle of productivity keeps going. You’ll establish an office culture of achievement and satisfaction, which directly enhances your ROI. Just be sure to offer the right courses, in the right format. And keep everything online (or blended) to trim the expense of face-to-face seminars and workshops.
7. Saved Time And Money
This might seem counter-intuitive. Don’t employees take time off work to train? And doesn’t it sometimes cost the company money? Especially if the company sponsors said training and has to hire a replacement for the duration? Well, both problems can be resolved through online training. It’s more condensed and flexible, so your staff doesn’t have to take time off. Plus, it’s far cheaper than any external training course. More importantly, though, adequate employee training reduces errors, non-compliance, and damage, which can all be extremely costly.
Advice For Successful Businesses And Employees
Many bosses worry that training their staff is like priming their employees for poaching. And it can be, but only if you take the wrong approach. Instead, train with mutual benefit in mind. Create personalized training regimes that improve the company while feeding the trainee’s personal goals and individual ambition. Include mobile components so they can train at a place and time of their convenience. Focus on ROI, both at trainee and corporate levels. Aim to avoid pricy mistakes, compliance penalties, and expensive repairs to damaged products/equipment.
It's costly to underestimate the importance of employee training. However, you can find a new LMS that allows for any time, anywhere support and personalizes the process. Use our online directory to see which platforms are best for your profit margin and use case. You can also compare your top choices to determine which aligns with your needs and budget.
Download the eBook Employee Training For Your Mobile Workforce: How To Maximize The Perks And Minimize The Pitfalls to surpass employees' expectations and achieve your objectives.
