A reliable barometer for the health of an economy and business confidence is how much organisations are spending on training. When the economy slows, discretionary spending – such as staff training – is the first area to take a hit. According to Forbes, corporate training in the US is soaring. Research in 2014 showed that corporate training in the year previous grew by 15 percent, following two years of accelerated spending. Clearly, the benefits of regular training for an organisation are improved performance and profits, but what are the benefits of regular training for staff?
Money is rarely the main motivation for job satisfaction. In fact, a 2014 Fair Work Australia report revealed that employees were most satisfied when they had flexibility to balance work and non-work commitments, and the freedom to decide how to do their work. Likewise, regular training is a significant factor in staff satisfaction levels.
Here are four proven ways how your school staff can benefit from regular training:
1. Investment in orientation training pays off
A survey of 7,000 British employees revealed that employees who have undertaken an orientation training program are more likely to enjoy higher levels of job satisfaction, commitment, motivation and less absenteeism. The report concludes that orientation programs play an important role in facilitating workplace socialisation and reducing workplace uncertainty.
2. Upskilling improves self-esteem
When an organisation invests in skills training, staff become the beneficiaries of new skills. New-found confidence often leads to an increased contribution to the business and growth in an employee’s self-esteem.
3. Interesting work keeps job satisfaction levels high
The opportunity to use talents and get involved in interesting work or new projects keeps job satisfaction levels high. A certain level of autonomy in how to get the job done and overcome challenges is also likely to keep an employee motivated and engaged. Top tip for team leaders: be on the lookout for ways to increase challenges, and improve daily routines for staff.
4. Technology is helping to personalise training
There has been an explosion in technology tools that can be used to train people. Online tools such as video, webinars and virtual learning modules have revolutionised the way people can choose to consume their training. A staff training program that includes a level of self-led training is more likely to deliver a personalised experience. Top tip: School leaders, encourage your staff to take personal responsibility for their development through self-led reading and research.
An investment in staff training is an investment in the health of your school. When training frequently happens in-house, a culture of learning develops and staff see that your organisation believes it’s important for employees to be given the opportunities to learn and develop as individuals.
