Trained employees are more productive employees; there’s no doubt
about that. Whether you’re your only employee or whether you’ve
got a growing staff, put OJT (on the job training) at the top of
your To-Do list.
Every job, no matter what it is, is done better and faster when
those responsible for doing it are properly trained. In theory
this sounds good. But in reality, small growing companies rarely
have money in their operating budgets to cover training costs.
Job-related training whether for yourself or for your employees
is expensive in the short run. But in the long run, not offering
training often costs more. The good news is that job-related
training no longer means traveling to expensive seminars and
courses. A variety of affordable training tools is available
today. Much of this training is available without leaving your
desk.
Whether it’s learning to use the software tools you purchased to
run your business, or to stay abreast of ever-changing laws
covering everything from sexual harassment to homeland security,
you’ll find cost-effective training material suitable for your
situation.
E-learning tools, computer based training, software tutorials,
CD-ROMS, audio and video tapes, books and instructor-led training
courses are some common training tools.
E-learning involves any type of training material that is
delivered electronically. Whether delivered in a format readable
by a computer or delivered via the Internet, or via satellite, or
via interactive television, e-learning is a cost-effective way to
train.
Company Intranets are being used for employee training, complete
with testing and progress tracking. This method gives small
business owners complete control over the content being taught.
The training materials do need to be developed and maintained,
but this initial investment of time is worth the effort.
The Internet is an endless source of training material. A simple
search on your desired topic will produce an abundance of
training material. Research this material carefully and know
exactly what you are paying for.
You and your employees can even learn while commuting to and from
work. Imagine popping in a training course on audiotape or CD-ROM
and learning while stuck in traffic. Of course, your employees
might want to be paid for this time!
Local cable television stations are another valuable training
source. These days, everything from learning about software
products to preparing for the SAT is taught on local cable. The
local library is another local source for training materials.
Training materials are loaned, not purchased, making this a
worthwhile source to investigate. You’ll even find an assortment
of e-book titles at the library, too.
And for every new software package you purchase to help run your
business, find a suitable training guide and require all who will
be using it to learn how to properly use all of the software’s
features. That includes you, too. You’ll never get your money’s
worth out of the software you purchase if you do not learn how to
use it.
Much of the software on the market includes on-line help, on-line
demonstrations, tutorials or some other learning instrument.
Software makers also have web sites where users can go to learn
more about the product. As a software package grows in
popularity, so too will the number of book titles available for
that software.
And one method of instruction that has yet to go out of style is
instructor-led training. Whether enrolled in a real classroom
environment or a virtual classroom, all will benefit by learning
directly from an expert.
The reality is, only properly trained employees and business
owners can help your business grow. Classes begin now so don’t be
late!
About the Author
Copyright © 2005 Cavyl Stewart. Get more software tips, strategies and recommendations by signing up for my Exclusive 100% free, 100% original content ecourses. Visit: http://www.find-small-business-software.com/free-ecourses.php