Are You Achieving Optimal Return on Your Training Investments?
Written by Donna Thaxter, Training, Coaching, and Professional Development Consultant
Our recent Saturday morning workforce series has focused on the impact of training and development on employee engagement, productivity, retention, and overall workplace reputation. However, the real value of a training investment lies not just in the sessions but in ensuring an ongoing learning process that solidifies best practices, promotes individual growth, and directly contributes to an improved bottom line.
Learning in its Best Form Evolves into a Continuous Process:
Authentic learning doesn’t happen as an isolated experience; it should be an ongoing process that stimulates learning and the application of new practices. One of the best ways to achieve this, especially for soft skill training such as communication, teamwork, and sales, is to couple your employee training with coaching workshops for managers and team leaders. This approach provides your leaders with tools, proven methodologies, and actual coaching practice to effectively reinforce new skills and behavioral expectations taught in the classroom. We’ve seen some exceptional examples of clients who leverage training and pull it forward by establishing coaching as an organizational norm. Setting an expectation that managers meet regularly with each team member to discuss observations, successes, and challenges can be a game-changer. This ensures the long-term application and sustainability of new business practices and acts as a training ROI multiplier.
A combination of training and reinforcement is the best way to lift your company’s learning & development ROI. Next Saturday, we’ll focus on a second reinforcement strategy for operationally-focused training. Contact our Director, Bill Dolan, to learn more about SCA’s integrated training, coaching, and Reinforcement approach. You can reach Bill via email (WDolan@scapartnering.com) or phone (617-694-2617).
