As a business owner, you probably already know the importance of training new employees. But the business landscape is constantly shifting and your team will need new skills as you grow.
Here are some of the top reasons your employee training should be permanently ongoing:
1. Knowledge Capital.
No matter how experienced your team is, there’s always more to learn. If you have a team of software engineers, perhaps they could benefit with some soft skills training. If your team deals with infrastructure engineering you could send them for a one-day course on the cables and components they specify. Why not hire a speaker to come training staff overcome their fear of public speaking.
2. Productivity Boost.
After a few years on the job people tend to get complacent with their work. Employees probably have a set way of doing things and they stick to those habits forever. But with some training and feedback, you could probably help them improve regular processes. Your customer service team, for example, could be taught to read body language when dealing with customers. On the job training is proven to have a positive effect on team productivity. This way you get better results and a more productive team.
3. Internal Promotions.
Why hire new talent when you can develop it from within the organization? Your business already has a team of people that are trusted and available. These employees already understand your leadership style, the organization culture and the product being sold. Picking team members for leadership training will help them advance in their careers and offer more to the enterprise. Internal promotions have the potential to strengthen your team and save money that would have been otherwise spent on external recruitment. It’s a win-win.
4. Boosts Morale.
Nothing boosts morale better than a little help. A firm that is willing to invest in its people is perceived as better to work for. Employees are likely to appreciate the time and effort spent on training them, and this makes them more willing to apply their new skills on the job. Careful attention and career advancing investments are likely to go a long way.
5. Fosters Loyalty.
On going training also helps with employee loyalty. An employee who’s been around the firm for years and has received thorough training on a regular basis is more loyal to the team and the company. On going training is widely considered one of the best ways to boost employee retention at work. It’s harder for employees to leave after they’ve built up the skills needed for the particular task they do at your firm. Employees appreciate a company that’s willing to show appreciation for their work, invest in their future unconditionally and prepare them for more senior roles.
These five reasons should convince you to develop a permanent employee training program. Short courses at regular intervals are the best way forward for all companies, regardless of their size.
