Teachers are fond of saying that all people learn differently. This statement is as true for small or big business employees as it is for teenagers who are attempting to master chemistry.
From corporate businesses to small start-ups, companies are revolutionizing the way they train employees. Ushering workers into a conference hall for a dry lecture is no longer the most beneficial teaching approach. While these traditional training methods are not going to disappear anytime soon, companies are taking a more creative and interactive approach to employee training.
In the ideal business model, increased productivity and efficiency results in financial gains. However, in order to achieve that increased level of productivity, the employee needs to be well-trained and content in his or her workplace. Revolutionary training programs attempt to do both.
Here is a look at five employee training tactics being used today:
1. Interactive discussions and a hands-on approach
Being involved makes an employee feel like a greater part of the training process. This sense of inclusion, in turn, makes them feel like they’re part of the company. When you’re listening to a trainer give a lecture, it doesn’t take long before your eyes get glassy and your thoughts begin to wander. You could listen to an hour of company facts, procedures and updates, and walk out of the room not remembering anything. Active discussions, role-playing and team-building exercises keep employees involved and on-task.
2. Technology and social media are being implemented now more than ever before.
Whether you’re interacting with a company speaker over Facebook or Twitter, or accessing information through your iPhone, technology has opened up new realms of communication and availability. These days, you can have a guest trainer or consultant conduct a workshop over Skype. Furthermore, new software like Cornerstone OnDemand learning management system is being used by businesses to do everything from source new talent to develop and engage employees.
3. Fun is a game changer.
Many companies seem to have finally realized that fun activities can be an opportunity to teach, train and keep their workers content and happy. Raffles, gift certificates and other forms of employee appreciation are being built into traditional seminars and workshops. Games and scenario simulations are taking the place of PowerPoint demonstrations and guest speakers. In other words, why can’t employee training be fun and informational? The idea of casual Fridays has finally crept into the training curriculum.
4. Panel discussions are still effective.
The more guest speakers there are in a room, the greater the chance the entire workforce is going to be engaged. Why? People learn differently, and it’s likely every speaker on the panel is going to have a different style, tone and perspective.
5. Nobody wants to listen to a lecture and watch a slideshow.
However, a live demonstration goes a long way. We are visual learners, and we like to be entertained. When the chemistry teacher blew up something in class, we remembered it. It’s the same thing when it comes to training. Employees, as well as students, always prefer show over tell.
Productivity. Efficiency. Employee contentment. These are three things that help businesses grow strong and stay competitive. From having good old fashioned fun at the office park to implementing hi-tech software, employee training is being revolutionized as businesses look to the future.
About the Author
Neil Talarico studied both auto mechanics and technology. He is now an editor for several auto blogs in the midwest.