A Comprehensive Guide to Employee Training Systems

Employee training has evolved beyond mere compliance checks into a strategic imperative for organisational success. Effective training helps companies build a skilled, engaged, and adaptable workforce to meet changing market needs

This guide explains employee training systems and helps businesses improve their training to get the most out of their employees.

What is an employee training system?

An employee training system is a structured approach to employee learning and development. Employee training identifies the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to do their jobs well. An employee training system provides employees with the necessary tools and resources to acquire these skills and competencies.

Benefits of implementing employee training systems

Employee training benefits both employees and the company as a whole.

Enhanced employee skills and knowledge

Employee training helps workers learn new skills and stay up-to-date. This can lead to improved job performance, increased productivity, and a more competent and versatile workforce.

Improved employee engagement and motivation

When employers invest in training, workers feel valued and motivated. Employees who feel valued and appreciated are more likely to be committed to their work, resulting in increased job satisfaction and reduced turnover rates.

Enhanced innovation and problem-solving

A well-trained workforce is better equipped to tackle challenges, solve problems creatively, and adapt to change. By providing employees with the necessary skills and knowledge, organisations can foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Increased productivity and efficiency

Employee training can lead to increased productivity and efficiency by reducing errors, streamlining processes, and improving overall workflow. This can translate into cost savings, improved customer service, and a stronger competitive advantage. (Source: National Skills Needs Survey 2022-23)

Stronger organisational reputation and brand image

Investing in employee training shows that a company values its workers and wants to provide the best. This can enhance the company’s reputation and brand image, attracting top talent and customers.

Measurable return on investment (ROI)

Employee training programs can deliver a measurable return on investment (ROI) for organisations. By increasing employee productivity, reducing errors, and improving customer satisfaction, organisations can see a tangible financial benefit from their training investments.

Addressing the skills gap in Australia

Australia’s economy is undergoing a rapid transformation driven by technological advancements and changing industry demands. This has created a skills gap where the demand for certain skills exceeds the available supply. Effective employee training can help close the skills gap and prepare Australia’s workforce for the future.

Reduced employee turnover

Employee training systems help employees acquire the skills and competencies required to advance their careers. This reduces employee turnover and helps organisations retain their top talent.

Improved customer satisfaction

Employee training systems help employees acquire the skills and competencies required to provide excellent customer service. This leads to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Increased profitability: Employee training systems help employees acquire the skills and competencies required to perform their jobs more efficiently. This leads to increased profitability for organisations.

Types of employee training systems

There are several types of employee training systems, including:

• On-the-job training: On-the-job training involves learning by doing. Employers should provide employees with the tools and resources they need to learn while performing their jobs.
• Classroom training: Classroom training involves learning programs in a classroom setting. Employers should provide employees with the tools and resources they need to learn in a structured environment.
• E-learning: Online courses let employees learn at their own pace online, even if they’re not in the office or have limited time.
• Social learning: Social learning involves learning through interactions with others. Employee training should include opportunities for employees to learn from their peers and mentors.
• Simulation-based training: Simulation-based training utilises immersive scenarios and simulations to replicate real-world experiences, enhancing skill development and decision-making abilities.
• Instructor-led training (ILT): Qualified trainers should provide face-to-face instruction that facilitates real-time interaction and feedback.
• Blended learning: Blended learning combines ILT and e-learning elements, creating a dynamic and engaging learning experience.

How to strategise your employee training

Plan your employee training to make sure it helps your company reach its goals. A clear plan will help you choose the right training for your employees and see if it’s working.

1. Identify training needs

The first step in developing a training strategy is to identify the specific training needs of your employees. You can learn what training your employees need by asking them, checking their performance data, and testing their skills.

2. Set training goals and objectives

Once you have identified your training needs, you need to set clear and measurable training goals and objectives. These goals should be specific, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

3. Select training methods

Some of the ways to train employees include in-person classes, online training courses, hands-on training, and a mix of all three. Choose the best training for your employees based on their needs, your budget, and your company culture.

4. Develop training materials

If you are creating your training content, make sure it is good, interesting, and useful to the training needs of your employees. You can also buy ready-made learning content or hire a training expert to create them for you.

5. Implement your training program

Once you have developed your training program, you need to implement it effectively. This includes communicating the training program to your employees, scheduling training sessions, and providing support to your trainers.

6. Evaluate your training program

Evaluate and measure the effectiveness of your training by:

• Collecting feedback from participants: Ask employees what they thought of the training and what they learned.
• Measuring changes in employee performance: Compare employee performance before and after the training to see if there is a positive change.
• Tracking the ROI of your training programs: Calculate the return on investment (ROI) of your training programs to see how much money they are saving or generating for your company.

Steps to Develop an Employee Training Program

To develop an effective employee training program, you need to follow these steps:

1. Identify your training needs: Determine the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for employees to excel in their roles.
2. Develop your training objectives: Develop clear and concise training objectives that align with your company’s goals and objectives.
3. Design your training program: Design a training program that includes the necessary training methods, materials, and resources.
4. Deliver your training: Deliver your training using the chosen methods and materials.
5. Evaluate your training: Evaluate the effectiveness of your training using appropriate metrics and feedback mechanisms.

Evaluation of employee training effectiveness

To evaluate the effectiveness of your employee training, you need to follow these steps:

1. Identify your evaluation criteria: Identify the criteria that you will use to evaluate the effectiveness of your training.
2. Collect your evaluation data: Collect data on the effectiveness of your training using appropriate metrics and feedback mechanisms.
3. Analyse your evaluation data: Analyse your evaluation data to determine the effectiveness of your training.
4. Use your evaluation data: Use your evaluation data to improve your training solution and make data-driven decisions.

Useful employee training tools

Numerous employee training tools can aid in the creation and execution of successful employee training programs. These tools include:

• Learning management systems (LMS): LMSs are software applications that help organisations manage, deliver, and track employee training programs.
• Employee training software: Employee training software helps companies design, manage, and conduct training programs for their employees. It provides a centralised platform for course creation, training and development of employees, and tracking employee progress.
• Real-time learning tools: Real-time learning tools are software applications that help employees learn in real time. These tools provide employees with the necessary resources to learn while performing their jobs. Some popular real-time learning tools include WalkMe, Whatfix, and Userlane.
• Training platforms: Training platforms are software applications that provide employees with access to training materials and resources. These platforms are designed with ease of use and navigation in mind. Some popular training platforms include Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning.
• Customer support tools: Customer support tools are software applications that help organisations provide excellent customer service. These tools provide employees with the necessary resources to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently. Some popular customer support tools include Zendesk, Freshdesk, and Help Scout.
• Social learning tools: Social learning tools are software applications that help employees learn from their peers and mentors. These tools provide employees with the necessary resources to collaborate and share knowledge. Some popular social learning tools include Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Yammer.
• Management systems: Management systems are software applications that help organisations manage their employee training programs. These systems provide a centralised platform for course creation, training and development of employees, and tracking employee progress.
• Training authoring tools: Training authoring tools are software applications that help organisations create high-quality training materials. These tools provide employees with the necessary resources to create engaging, informative, and easy-to-understand training materials.

How to choose the right employee training method

Choosing the right employee training method for your workplace can be challenging. Here are some factors to consider when choosing an employee training method:

• Learning objectives: The learning objectives of your training program should guide your choice of training method. For example, if your learning objectives involve hands-on training, then on-the-job training may be the best choice.
• Employee preferences: Tailor your training method to align with your employees’ preferences. For example, if your employees prefer online learning, then online training may be the best choice.
• Budget: Align your training method with your budget. For example, if you have a limited budget, then on-the-job training may be the best choice.
• Time constraints: Account for time constraints when selecting a training method. For example, to train a large number of employees quickly, online training may be the best choice.

Developing effective employee training systems is a strategic process that empowers businesses to maintain competitive advantage in today’s fast-paced business world. Though challenging to perfect, the returns on investment in terms of enhanced employee performance, customer satisfaction, and company growth make this a worthwhile endeavour. The importance of training should not be overlooked – it’s an integral aspect of business success in today’s fast-paced business environment.