As a training expert, I know how important it is to train people to help them improve their skills and get more done. A coworker and I recently discussed where lengthy staff training should optimally occur. Our research showed that it would be better to train current employees somewhere other than their own workplaces.
Why it’s best to train employees somewhere else
There are a number of reasons why workers should be trained somewhere other than where they usually work. The first is that current staff won’t feel “special” after a full day of training at the regular office. They might need a change of scenery and a break from their usual routine to shake things up a bit and help them learn better. Second, the facilities where employees currently work are not all the same. This makes it harder to plan and carry out group projects or even the same projects across locations. A new place to meet, like a conference room, makes it easier for the trainers to stay organized and less likely that something will go wrong.
Getting smarter means giving up routines
Existing workplaces may be “sticky,” which means that long-standing habits can make it hard to switch to new ways of doing or thinking about things. When training takes place in a place that is different from their usual routine, employees are more likely to pick up and keep new habits.
In conclusion, remember to think smart about where to do your employee training and consider the factors addressed above. Having training outside of the usual workplace can be helpful because it gives people a chance to learn in a new setting and makes it easier to plan and carry out exercises. If we make smart choices, we can help our staff improve their skills and do their jobs better.