Training, Why Training?!

This post is a transcript of my elevator speech regarding why a person should see the importance of training.

Elevator Message

Training is often thought of as the information one is given when beginning a new position. It usually lasts a definite period of time and prepares an employee to successfully complete the tasks needed in their positions. This is true. Training is also so much more.

Successful training in a company needs to be learner centered and focus on the needs of the individual (Stolovich & Keeps, 2011.) No company wants to waste resources training someone on things with which they are already proficient. Training programs need to be designed to effectively communicate the needs of a company while meeting the needs of the learner as well.

In today's economy sustaining a company can be quite difficult. Managing the financial resources of a company and moving the company ahead has become an arduous task. Training needs to fit in with the ups and downs of the economy as well. Instructional Designers should look at the training programs in a company and find ways to reduce or more effectively manage these costs. Utilizing new technologies such as online resources, iPods, or webinars may help decrease the overall costs.

The economy also means the look of our employees has changed over time. Many adults are being forced to work later in life, often beginning new positions due to downsizing or other economic downturns. The variance of ethnicity in the workforce is growing as well. Companies need to meet the needs of this diverse group of people (Noe, 2010.) Training also needs to reflect changes in diversity. This could mean additional training in newer technology, additional assistance to overcome language barriers, or other needs as required by the workforce.

Training is meeting the needs of both the company and employees in a way that benefits all involved. Instructional Designers can design or modify programs to have the most effective training and performance development programs commensurate with the needs of business in today's society.

Resources

Noe, R. A. (2010). Employee training and development (5th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill.

Stolovitch, H. D., & Keeps, E. J. (2011). Telling ain’t training. Alexandria, VA: ASTD Press.