3.6 Training and development

Different training methods

Training is where an employee is properly taught a skill that is needed for their job.

Induction training

Induction training is where an employee is introduced to the workplace, colleagues, aims and objectives, job role, health and safety. This helps them have a positive experience and feel more valued.

On-the-job training

This is where an employee is taught skills by someone who is experienced in the role giving assistance and advice while they complete a task.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Trained for the exact role • improves performance	Time-consuming for worker who provides training
Cheaper than sending to separate training centre	Worker may pass on incorrect information/bad habits
Easier to get started and use new skills immediately	Bad training could result in safety hazards and costs

O-the-job training

This is where an employee is shown how to complete their job at a location away from the actual workplace.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Training from a professional/expert	More expensive for business to provide
Can do training exercises such as team work	Employee spends less time at actual business
Safe learning environment where mistakes can be made	Employees may struggle to bring skills into workplace

Staff development

A business can invest in staff development to improve their work in the long term, which improves performance.

Academic and vocational qualifications

Academic qualifications are those completed in school, college and university. Vocational qualifications relate more to gaining skills that are specific to a particular job or industry.

Apprenticeships

Businesses may offer an apprenticeship scheme to provide employees with a particular job experience, and they must be paid. It is a combination of on-the-job training and o-the-job training as they need to spend some time studying.

Benefits of staff development

• Improve employee retention
• Makes employees more motivated
• More career opportunities for employee