The Real Value of Training
A colleague mischievously emailed an article to me that suggested that the majority of training events showed little or no return. The mischief-maker expected a defensive response from me, but didn’t get one.
I explained that in my own experience as a training practitioner I had come across many sub-standard events; some due to an inadequate or ill-prepared trainer, some due to poor content and timing, others from a mismatch of course and attendees.
Furthermore, many excellent training courses amount to little due to a failure to put the learning into practice. We all know the result, ‘Use it or lose it’...
So it’s not as radical a proposal as it first seemed; many training interventions and activities are nothing more than a waste of time and money!
Or are they?
Let’s look at this from the point of view of the participant, or learner, for it is they that we, the training professionals serve.
Self-worth
Attendance at a suitable training event can be viewed as a reward for an employee. An empathetic environment helps the person to open up, whilst meeting others in similar situations or jobs enhances the event, and a skilful trainer will round off the positive learning experience.
Self-discovery
Outside of the shackles of the organisation, a participant learns new knowledge and skills, and understands more about themselves. Being away from the organisation, even for a short time, can help give them a different perspective, thereby opening up previously undiscovered doors of opportunity.
Networking and Socialisation
Attending an external training event opens up networking opportunities, whereby the participant can gain access to smarter processes or other more cost-effective solutions, whilst internal training can help the learner to fully integrate socially into their organisation.
Enjoyment and Fun
A well-designed and effective training course will always be enjoyable, and should have at least an element of fun. Adults learn better when they’re having fun and enjoying the learning experience, and this can only be positive for the person as they return to their place of work.
Other
There are many other ‘real’ benefits of training to the individual and the organisation. The individual is more marketable, they are encouraged to constantly learn and develop, and they may have changed their attitude towards education. Perhaps they have learnt a strategy for coping with conflict, or realised the source of same.
The organisation benefits from all of the above!
Yes, make sure your training is relevant, worthwhile, and provides value for money, but don’t let statistics or a damning report stop you from doing it; ever!!