The Role of an Effective Trainer in a Continuous Learning Strategy

Continuous learning is the best strategy when it comes to ensuring that employees are as competent and effective as they can be. A continuous learning strategy means that a trainer sees learning as longer term process. Earlier training sessions are complimented and enhanced by continued skill building exercises. It also aids in superior performance when there are support aids in the workplace. With this strategy, there is less emphasis on the initial training sessions.  It is still a very important phase in the learning period, but when a business focuses on the long term process of learning, employees are better equipped to support and service customers. With that said what is the role of a trainer in this new paradigm shift? How can training be effective when focusing on the long term? Learning and development has changed over the years with trial and error. Training used to be a one-time event, where people would have initial training and then work in their position with little guidance from that point forward, but more recent studies have shown that employees benefit more from continued learning. In addition to the change in frequency of training, there has also been a change in the method of the training. Different tactics can be used to maximize learning so that employees can be better trained for their jobs. Technology for one has greatly affected the training process in the workplace. One major reason to alter the way that people do training is that there are several different learning styles. People learn at different paces, so different training methods need to be used to suit an individual. The continuous learning strategy certainly helps people retain information better. Refresher training can help people brush up on their skills or remind them of things that they are lagging in or might have forgotten to use in their customer service approach. The modern day trainer needs to be open-minded to using different approaches depending on the employees that they are training. Long term training allows for this. It is also beneficial when it comes to addressing areas of improvement. An employee can grow much easier if they are guided through the whole way, not just at the beginning. Performance is the main objective of training in the first place. When employees are empowered to improve themselves over time, they feel less stressed and are more likely to stay with a company that is willing to invest time and resources into them. One great example of a training tool that makes use of the long term training strategy is WalkMe. It is a performance support software that employees can use and refer to long after the initial training process. It can be applied to the company’s relevant training needs to best support their employees that need more training and support. By using technology, methods, and resources that are directly relevant to a company’s training needs, training can be maximized when it is directed toward the long term.