To create a happy, productive workforce, training managers must provide opportunities for further training and growth. Unfortunately, too many employees or management dismiss training as boring or unnecessary. And, let's face it, employee training can be boring, but only when the wrong types of training are matched up with the topic or issue you're tackling. Matching the types of employee training to your employee needs can ensure they receive the information they need, in the format best suited for it.
1. Instructor-led training
Instructor-led training is the traditional type of employee training that occurs in a classroom, with a teacher presenting the material.
2. eLearning
eLearning, on the other hand, relies on online videos, tests, and courses to deliver employee training. Employees can do their training right in the palm of their hand with a smartphone or on their company computers.
3. Simulation employee training
Simulation training is most often provided through a computer, or virtual reality device. Despite the initial costs for producing that software or technology, however, simulation training can be a necessary option for employees in riskier or high-stakes fields.
4. Hands-on training
Hands-on training includes any experiential training that's focused on the individual needs of the employee. It's conducted directly on the job. Hands-on training can help employees fit perfectly into their upcoming or current role, while enhancing their current skills.
5. Coaching or mentoring
Coaching or mentoring can share similar qualities to hands-on training, but in this type of employee training, the focus is on the relationship between an employee and a more experienced professional, such as their supervisor, a coach, or a veteran employee.
6. Lecture-style training
Important for getting big chunks of information to a large employee population, lecture-style training can be an invaluable resource for communicating required information quickly.
7. Group discussions and activities
For the right group of employees, group discussions and activities can provide the perfect training option. It allows multiple employees to train at once, in an environment that better fits their current departments or groups. These discussions and activities can be instructor-led or facilitated by online prompts that are later reviewed by a supervisor.
8. Role-playing
Similar to group discussions, role-playing specifically asks employees to work through one aspect of their jobs in a controlled scenario. They'll be asked to consider different points-of-view and think on their feet as they work through the role-playing activity.
9. Management-specific activities
Management-specific activities are just that—employee training that's focused on the needs of managers. They may include simulations, brainstorming activities, team-building exercises, role-playing, or focused eLearning on management best practices.
10. Case studies or other required reading
Finally, some employee training topics are readily accessible through required readings. Case studies, in particular, can provide a quick way for employees to learn about real workplace issues. Employees can read through these at their own pace, or while working in a team-building session with other employees.