On the job training done while the employee is doing their normal job while at the workplace.
E.g. a senior employee helps the junior employee comprehend all the tasks and acquire new skills needed to carry out the job efficiently.
Advantages
- Cost effective: using in-house specialists.
- Training is more relevant as it is specifically for the firm.
- Reduces disruption to daily operations as it is on site.
- Helps establish relationships and promote teamwork.
- The location is convenient for workers and trainers.
Disadvantages
- Trainees may pick up bad practices.
- Internal trainers may lack up to date training.
- Trainers cannot complete their own work whilst training new workers.
- May be incomplete due to a lack of resources.
- Productivity may be low until all skills are learnt.
Induction training the training received when first starting a job, this is a type of on the job training.
Advantages
- Establishes expectations and good working habits from the start.
- Helps new workers understand the corporate culture.
- Speeds up settling in process.
- Morale is boosted when new recruits feel more confident.
Disadvantages
- Can be time consuming.
- Key staff need to be freed from their duties.
- Information overload for new recruits.
- Induction can be lengthy in large firms.
Mentoring another type of OTJ training involving a dyad of a mentor and a mentee. The mentor shares their experiences with the mentee to help them gain skills and knowledge.
Advantages
- Synergy is created as it shares personal experiences.
- Mentoring can be informal/formal.
- Good mentors create a positive environment for mentees to act without fear of punishment.
Disadvantages
- Time consuming for mentors.
- Mismatched pairings can be stressful.
- Requires long-term commitment which can disrupt business operations.
- Training mentors might be costly.
Off the job training happens outside working hours, where the employees are being trained away from the job. This could involve workshops, conferences etc.
Advantages
- Experts who may not exist internally are able to be used.
- A wider range of training can be provided.
- There are no distractions from colleagues at an offsite venue.
- Networking can take place, so employees can meet new people.
Disadvantages
- There is a potential loss of output whilst workers attend the offsite training course.
- Hiring specialist trainers can be very expensive, and transport/accommodation costs may add cost.
- It is debatable whether all skills are transferable to the business.
- Finding time for staff to get off work can be difficult.
Cognitive training focuses on helping employees develop their thinking and processing skills. This type of training is of crucial importance for businesses that require their employees to make quick, wise and effective decisions, link investment banking, marketing departments of companies etc.
Advantages
- Helps workers improve their mental processes acquire new knowledge, aid decision-making and solve work-related problems.
Disadvantages
- May not cater for workers with different goals.
- Can be expensive.
- Might not meet the needs of an organisation.
- Difficult to measure effects of the training.
Behavioural training focuses on helping employees develop certain interpersonal skills such as stress management, communication, dealing with emotions etc.
Frequently Asked Questions: Training in Business
In a business context, training is the systematic process of teaching employees or individuals the knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors needed to perform their jobs effectively, improve their performance, and contribute to organizational goals. It can cover technical skills, soft skills, compliance requirements, product knowledge, management techniques, and more.
Training is a vital investment for businesses due to numerous benefits:
- Improved Performance & Productivity: Equip employees with the skills to do their jobs better and more efficiently.
- Increased Employee Satisfaction & Retention: Employees feel valued when invested in, leading to higher morale and reduced turnover.
- Enhanced Quality: Proper training reduces errors and leads to higher quality products or services.
- Increased Innovation & Adaptability: Training helps employees learn new technologies and methods, making the business more adaptable to change.
- Better Management: Training for managers improves leadership, communication, and team effectiveness.
- Compliance: Ensures employees understand and follow necessary regulations and safety procedures.
- Competitive Advantage: A well-trained workforce can be a key differentiator in the market.
Cross-training involves teaching employees skills that enable them to perform tasks in roles or departments other than their primary job. This strategy increases flexibility and efficiency within the workforce.
Benefits of cross-training include improved coverage during absences, increased teamwork, a more versatile workforce, enhanced employee skills, and better understanding of different parts of the business.
Training can take many forms:
- On-the-Job Training (OJT): Learning while performing the job, often with a supervisor or mentor.
- Classroom Training: Traditional lectures or workshops.
- Online/E-learning: Using digital platforms, modules, and resources.
- Blended Learning: Combining different methods (e.g., online modules followed by a workshop).
- Mentoring & Coaching: One-on-one guidance and support.
- Simulations & VR: Creating realistic scenarios for practice (e.g., sales calls, operating machinery).
- Cross-Training: As mentioned, training employees in multiple roles.
- Compliance Training: Mandatory training on legal or regulatory topics.
Induction training, or onboarding, is the process of introducing new employees to the organization, its culture, values, policies, and their specific roles and responsibilities. It's a crucial initial training period designed to help new hires integrate quickly and effectively into the company.
Yes, training is often tailored to specific needs:
- Business Management Training: Focuses on leadership, strategic thinking, decision-making, financial management, and team leadership skills.
- Business Analyst Training: Focuses on requirements gathering, process modeling, data analysis, and communication skills specific to analyzing business needs and solutions.
- Sales Training: Techniques for selling, product knowledge, customer relationship management.
- Technical Training: Specific skills related to software, machinery, or technical processes.
- Assertiveness Training: Focuses on communication skills for various groups, including programs specifically for women in business.
