Situations when training is needed
There are a number of situations in a business when training is needed. These include an induction, retraining, new technology, new health and safety requirements and creating opportunities for employees.
Induction training
When an employee starts a new job, they are likely to receive induction training. It is designed to help the new employee settle into the business. It can include meeting other employees, a tour of the building, computer systems, company rules and procedures. It normally takes place in the workplace.
Induction training has a number of advantages for the business. It helps new employees settle into their new roles quickly, meaning they can become more productive. It also means that new employees feel valued and supported, which reduces the risk of them leaving the business.
Retraining
Retraining is very important for employees. Sometimes, employees may forget valuable information or need reminding how to undertake certain tasks. Retraining also happens where an employee is working lower than the required standard, or where changes have been made to a role or business practice.
Retraining employees is likely to lead to less mistakes being made. However, some employees may feel that they do not require retraining in a particular area.
New technology
Technology is constantly becoming more advanced and changing as new machinery, software and ways of working are introduced. It is very important for businesses to ensure that they train their employees to use new technology. Doing so makes employees more efficient and skilled in their roles.
The type of technology a business invests in will depend on the type of business. For example, some businesses will need to train their employees to work a self-service checkout or a new payment system. Other businesses might need to teach their employees how to operate a new piece of industrial equipment, such as a robot that installs car parts.
Training employees to use new technology may also make them feel more valued by the business, which may in turn improve both motivationThe reasons an employee has for working - how driven and happy they are in their role. and retentionRetention refers to the amount of employees the employer is able to keep in the business.. Ultimately, if employees are able to fully use new technology, business performance is likely to improve.
New health and safety requirements
Health and safety requirements are regularly updated by both the government and businesses. Health and safety training may include areas such as fire exits, first aid, evacuation procedures and personal protective equipment. Having training in these areas will reduce the risk of accidents in the workplace.
Creating opportunities for employees
Training may take place to allow an employee to undertake additional duties or add responsibility to their role. Training may provide employees with additional skills and knowledge that will allow them to progress in a business and gain a promotion. Training could also allow an employee to undertake a completely new role in a business.
