What’s the Best Way to Train Employees?
If you’re thinking about cost-effective and practical training, on the job training might be the answer you’re looking for. As HR managers, we know that well-trained employees drive productivity, innovation, and success. But, finding the right training method is crucial. On the job training (OJT), also called “hands-on” or “near job” training, is all about learning by doing. It immerses employees in real work situations to help them acquire new skills while performing their daily tasks.
In this blog, we’ll understand the best and most efficient on the job training methods that can reshape how you train and develop your team. Let’s get started!
What is On The Job Training?
On the job training involves employees learning skills and gaining knowledge directly at work. Instead of spending extra money on classrooms or simulations, workers learn in real-time, alongside experienced colleagues. This method allows employees to contribute while they learn, making it practical for both the organization and the trainee.
Whether you’re onboarding new hires or upskilling current staff, job training makes sure that your team is prepared to meet real-world challenges head-on.
Efficient On The Job Training Methods
Here’s a list of some of the best on the job training methods for office employees:
- Job Rotation
- Mentoring
- Job Instruction
- Committee Assignments
- Internship Training
- Job Shadowing
- Self-Instructional Training
- Apprenticeship
1. Job Rotation
Do you want your employees to be versatile? Job rotation is a fantastic way to achieve that. By regularly shifting employees between related roles, they gain exposure to different tasks and departments. This method keeps work exciting, helps build relationships across teams, and reduces monotony.
For example, a marketing assistant rotates through the social media, content creation, and analytics teams to understand the entire marketing process.
Benefits
- Encourages creativity & adaptability
- Builds a well-rounded workforce
- Increases employee engagement
2. Mentoring
Is your team ready for one-on-one guidance? Mentoring pairs a less experienced employee with a senior colleague. Thus, helping them learn and grow in their role. This method promotes long-term relationships and provides ongoing support.
For instance, a junior HR executive may learn performance management techniques directly from a seasoned HR manager.
Benefits
- Provides personalized guidance
- Promotes a supportive learning environment
- Increases employee retention by building trust
3. Job Instruction
Need a structured approach? Job instruction is the go-to method when you want to ensure tasks are done precisely. The trainer provides clear instructions and expectations, and the employee follows them step-by-step.
This method works especially well for roles requiring specific skills or compliance with regulations. For example, in a manufacturing setting, employees might be trained in a proper way to operate machinery.
Benefits
- Reduces mistakes & increases safety
- Allows immediate feedback & correction
- Helps employees learn faster & more effectively
4. Committee Assignments
Looking to build teamwork? Committee assignments require employees to collaborate on solving real organizational problems. This promotes team spirit while also increasing problem-solving skills.
An example could be forming a committee to improve employee engagement by launching a new wellness program.
Benefits
- Builds team collaboration
- Increases critical thinking & creativity
- Strengthens problem-solving skills
5. Internship Training
Hiring interns? Internships are one of the best forms of on the job training for students & fresh graduates. They learn by applying theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, which helps them prepare for full-time roles.
For example, a computer science intern might work on small coding projects alongside experienced developers.
Benefits
- Provides practical experience to freshers
- Bridges gap between theory & practice
- Helps identify future employees
6. Job Shadowing
Ever thought of letting your employees ‘shadow’ others? Well, what do you understand by this? Worry not! As it’s something positive. Job shadowing allows an employee to observe a colleague’s work closely. This is especially helpful for new employees to understand the roles quickly.
Imagine a new sales executive observing an experienced managerial colleague to learn how to handle customer calls and close deals.
Benefits
- Offers real-time learning by observing
- Helps employees understand job expectations
- Allows experienced employees to share knowledge
7. Self-Instructional Training
Do your employees like learning at their own pace? Self-instructional training offers flexibility by allowing employees to guide their own learning using available resources.
For example, an employee might take online courses or read training manuals to master new software.
Benefits
- Allows flexibility in learning schedules
- Encourages independence & self-motivation
- Customizes learning to individual needs
8. Apprenticeship
Need long-term skill development? Apprenticeships blend on the job training with classroom learning, often lasting 1 to 4 years. They’re ideal for roles requiring advanced skills or certifications.
For instance, a technical apprentice might split their time between practical training and theoretical courses.
Benefits
- Brings a mastery at complex skills
- Provides a blend of practical & theoretical learning
- Creates a pipeline of skilled professionals
Why On The Job Training Works?
On the job training delivers several advantages. It’s cost-effective, as it doesn’t require additional resources like classrooms. Your employees can learn while working, which further accelerates the learning process.
According to Forbes, companies that focus on learning and development see 24% higher profit margins than those who don’t. Additionally, job training helps retain employees by giving them the skills and confidence to excel in their respective roles.
Way to go...
On the job training is a win-win for both employees and organizations. It offers practical experience while making sure that your team can handle real work challenges. From job rotation and mentoring to internships and apprenticeships, these methods help build a skilled, motivated workforce.
So, do incorporate on the job training into your HR strategy from now onwards, and watch your team’s productivity soar! Have you tried these methods in your organization yet? If not? Start transforming your workforce today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is On The Job Training (OJT), and why is it important?
On the job training (OJT) is a method where employees learn new skills by performing tasks directly within their work environment. It’s important because it offers real-time learning, allowing employees to develop essential skills while contributing to the organization, making it practical and cost effective for both employees and employers.
Why should companies choose on the job training over other methods?
Companies should consider on the job training because it doesn’t require extra resources like classrooms, saving costs and time. Employees learn alongside experienced colleagues, which helps them quickly adapt to the role and apply their skills immediately in real scenarios, enhancing overall productivity.
What are the best methods of on the job training?
Effective methods include job rotation, mentoring, job instruction, and internships. Each method offers unique benefits: job rotation promotes versatility, mentoring builds long term skills, job instruction ensures accuracy, and internships help fresh graduates gain practical experience. These methods align with various training needs to help organizations build a skilled workforce.
How does on the job training benefit HR teams?
On the job training eases the HR workload by minimizing the need for formal training programs, allowing HR to focus on strategic projects. It also improves employee retention, as employees feel more confident and prepared in their roles, which ultimately strengthens the organization’s talent base.
What are the advantages of on the job training for employees?
For employees, on the job training provides practical experience, allowing them to develop relevant skills faster while building confidence in real-time situations. It also supports continuous learning and growth within the organization, leading to greater job satisfaction and career advancement.
