Employee training is a broad term that refers to programs that provide workers with information, new skills, or opportunities for professional development. When people are hired, for example, they may be required to attend a new employee orientation or on-the-job training. Employee training programs that encourage employees to brush up on specific skills or stay current with developments in their field are examples of other types of employee training programs. There are also strategies for dealing with specific personnel issues that may arise on the job, such as worker safety or sexual harassment. Staff members or outside consultants may conduct training, depending on the subject matter.
When a company hires a new employee, they typically go through a training period before being assigned major job responsibilities. This training is typically intended to orient them to their new position and provide them with the information they need to perform their daily duties. Meeting with human resources staff and learning administrative tasks like filing paperwork could be part of this orientation. They may also be paired with mentors who can show them how to carry out more specific job functions. On-the-job training is a similar strategy that allows new employees to learn their jobs as they do them.
There are a variety of other reasons why a company might provide training and development opportunities for its current employees. Many companies, for example, conduct performance reviews and use the results to identify areas where employees need to improve. Other objectives could include increasing worker productivity or improving employee relations. Employees may be able to expand their knowledge and advance their careers as a result of the training. Technology updates or workplace safety procedures are examples of specific employee training topics. They could also address potentially sensitive issues like discrimination or harassment.
Employee training can have both positive and negative consequences. Despite the lack of scientific evidence that training reduces employee turnover, a number of management experts claim that certain training programs can help increase employee retention and productivity. Some experts argue that certain types of training can help employees have a more positive attitude at work. On the other hand, one of the most frequently mentioned disadvantages is that training employees can result in increased travel and other costs. It could also take time away from other responsibilities at work.
Staff members can usually complete training activities on their own if the training is on a relatively simple topic, such as a new software program. Some companies hire their own training managers or specialists, whose job it is to determine educational needs and plan activities. However, if the topic is more complicated or sensitive, the employer may hire an outside consultant to conduct the employee training.