It’s easy to chalk it up to your employees when they don’t listen or retain what they learn. But, it’s also important to remember that effective training is never approached as a one-size-fits-all method.
Some employees may react well to one method of training, while others don’t. It is pivotal to have multiple effective training methods in your toolbelt. Below, we cover the best employee training methods to get the point across to new employees.
Digital Learning
Digital learning, sometimes known as e-learning, is a popular training method that is hosted completely online. This method involves online training modules that include videos, readings, animations, and interactive elements.
What makes digital learning so powerful as a training method are its scalability and flexibility. In terms of scalability, content created for digital learning can be distributed to three or 300 new employees without much difficulty. In terms of flexibility, new employees will be able to learn at their own pace and work on training modules during times they learn the best.
Pro tip: Digital learning is often unmonitored, and this can be a challenge. To keep new employees engaged in the training, disable features like autoplay and incorporate features like quizzes at the end of each module.
The Buddy System
The buddy system is an onboarding and knowledge sharing method that operates by pairing new employees with a veteran workplace buddy.
This training method isn’t meant to be structured or the primary way for employees to learn. Instead, the buddy system is complementary to other training sessions. The buddy is available for questions and will guide the new employee through the first few weeks or months of the job.
On-The-Job Training
Like the name suggests, on-the-job training jumps straight into the practical skills needed to succeed within a company. New employees may start working immediately, or they may be assigned to follow a more experienced worker (similar to the buddy system).
Roleplay
There’s a difference between just learning about procedures, and putting the knowledge into action. Roleplay is a happy medium that helps new employees gain valuable feedback on what they’ve learned, while gaining experience on different potential work scenarios.
Usually, a trainee and a trainer will act out different scenarios. Then, the trainer will offer suggestions and areas of improvement for the trainee.
Instructor-Led Training
Instructor-led training mimics the traditional classroom. An instructor prepares and leads a group of new employees, and usually presents information through a visual component. While instructor-led training isn’t scalable, it allows for relationship building and direct contact with a knowledgeable trainer.