In today’s modern business world, failure to adapt to change usually results in failure, or at the very least, struggles in growth or productivity. This is especially true when it comes to employees and their development. If you’re saying, “Employee development? What’s that?” you’re already in trouble. For others, continued education and training for employees may be implemented, but vastly under-achieving or off target from the original goals. Now more than ever is the time to re-examine your learning and training programs, and here’s why:

• Finding and Keeping Talent is No Longer Solely up to HR

Finding, keeping and building lasting relationships with employees has shifted into a strategic business priority that requires planning, execution and the resources to do so. This means new processes and programs need to be put in place to develop and retain the talent you do attract.

• Leaders are in Short Supply

The lack of qualified leaders changing jobs or being able to be brought in from the outside means current employees are needed to fill leadership positions. This requires training in areas like project management, managing employees, supporting change and more.

• Skills Gaps are a Danger

Generally speaking, many industries are experiencing skill gaps. With return on investment being in demand now more than ever, employees are being asked to do more. Sometimes, this includes responsibilities they don’t currently have the skills or knowledge for.

• Younger Employees Learn Differently

As workforce trends change, businesses need to realize that younger employees learn differently. They have been raised on technology more than any other generation before them, and need the freedom to learn at their own pace. Getting up to speed There are a few things to do if you are committed to revamping or implementing a learning and development strategy in your company:

• Align with business objectives- what are your priorities? Do you need a stronger core of managers operating each area of your business, or do you need more qualified employees to produce certain products or provide certain services? These are the things your learning strategy needs to incorporate company-wide, not in silos.

• Select the right solution and provider- the ideal training or learning provider will offer the right programs and tools with innovative capabilities. However, the biggest difference is finding a provider that understands the importance behind measuring the effectiveness of learning activities.

• What do specific employees need to learn best?- You must think of your employees individually since everyone learns in slightly different ways. It could mean a different way of presenting material or simply how an individual likes to be communicated with.

The reality is that businesses that don’t provide development opportunities for their employees will experience higher turnover. Also, relying on outside hires to fill skills gaps or move your company forward is simply not a sound business strategy. Skywalk Group provides numerous training courses in both in-class and e-learning formats. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our training options and how they can benefit your employees and business.