To Train or Not to Train? 

Why is this even a Question? Training is an essential aspect of any organization. Having a Growth Mindset Culture. It helps employees acquire new skills and knowledge, which they can use to improve their performance, and ultimately contribute to the growth of the company. However, some organizations question the need for employee training and development. They may feel that it is an unnecessary expense or that employees should learn on the job. But is this the right approach?

There are several reasons why training is important in the workplace:

•  Firstly, it helps to improve employee performance. When employees receive training, they become more knowledgeable and skilled in their job, which can lead to increased productivity and efficiency. This, in turn, can result in cost savings for the organization.
• Secondly, training can help to boost employee morale. When employees receive training, they feel valued and appreciated by the organization. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, and ultimately, better employee retention rates.
• Thirdly, training can help to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. For example, if an organization operates in a highly regulated industry, such as healthcare or banking, it is essential that employees receive training on the relevant laws and regulations. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, legal action, and damage to the organization's reputation.
• Finally, training can help to foster a culture of learning within the organization. When employees see that the organization is committed to their development, they are more likely to take ownership of their own learning and development. This can lead to a more engaged and motivated workforce.

Training needs to cover not only the “how to”, but also the “why” along with practice, so that the students have a better understanding of the underlying concepts of the lessons – it makes application more effective and gives them the flexibility needed to adapt the new skills to their job.

“It doesn’t fit into the budget.” One of the biggest reasons companies give as to why the cannot train or enroll employees in training programs but is the reason not because they did not put it into consideration in the first place when drafting the budget?

I recently saw the above quote, “What if we train employees and they leave? What if we don’t and they stay?” – Bill Watterson – yet training is still undervalued. Companies are worried about investing in people who may then leave. I say, “Do it anyway – training doesn’t drive people away, instead it provides a ROI - Return On Investment.”

If an employee gets trained and then leaves, the problem is not the training – the employee was going to leave anyway, regardless of whether he or she gets trained. The problem is elsewhere. Look into where the dissatisfaction came from! Top reasons for employee dissatisfaction include – poor working conditions, being overworked & underpaid, no scope of promotion or career advancement, and lack of recognition. 

Training adds value. Financially, it’s a no-brainer. Training not only saves money, it also helps an organization make money. So… If your organization is looking to save money, become more competitive, and increase the productivity of its most important asset – people, then training is the most effective way for that to happen. In conclusion, the question of whether or not to train employees should not be a question at all. Training is essential for the growth and success of any organization. It helps to improve employee performance, boost morale, ensure compliance with laws and regulations, and foster a culture of learning. Organizations that invest in their employees' development are more likely to achieve their goals and remain competitive in today's ever-changing business environment.