You have a great team of staff who are working hard and getting on well, they are covering the current needs of your business and you have happy customers. With the ever-changing landscape of business, how do you ensure your employees are adequately equipped to continue to carry out their role?
Best practice, legislation and regulation are constantly changing as are the expectations of your customers. Education and continuous updating of knowledge will add value to the service delivered by staff, decrease the likelihood of costly mistakes and increase the knowledge base in your business. Developing your staff in the right way will encourage higher levels of engagement, broader skill sets and ensure your regulatory and operational needs are covered. On a personal level, your investment your people will encourage greater Job satisfaction and a feeling that they are truly valued.
Induction
Inspire and motivate your employees from day one with a carefully planned and thought out induction programme. Spending time on getting your new recruits fully trained at the start of their employment will reap rewards for productivity.
Employees make their mind up to stay or continue with you during their first few weeks of employment so why not inspire them with a great induction program. Motivation and engagement are increased quickly as the employee gains an immediate sense of belonging and job satisfaction. In return, you get loyal and dedicated staff.
Development Techniques
People learn in many different ways and staff development needn’t be costly. Use your existing staff or your own knowledge to pass on what you’ve learned from your own learning and experience. External public training courses are a great way to inspire people, not only to learn a new skill but the opportunity to mix with others and bring back great ideas into your company. Free webinars are available from many different avenues, join some relevant industry groups to find out where and when these are.
Giving people responsibility for the job is probably the best way for them to learn and develop over time. Challenge them to do something different over and above the normal day to day, whilst supporting them to do so. It may bring surprising results.
Final words
Setting aside the regulatory and mandatory training you must provide, people really are your best asset. Make the most of the diverse personalities, skills and abilities to benefit your business and to develop a culture of continuous learning in your workforce.
About the Author
This guide has been written by Nicola Quayle, founder of Positive Solutions HR Limited. Contact us on 07624 481335 or nicola@positivesolutionshr.com for further information or a no obligation chat.