Train in order to Retain

Training employees on their job responsibilities is integral to their success. Many businesses lack a formal training program for their new-hires, which is a disservice to both the employee and to the organization. Shadowing another employee for one day, scanning the handbook, and quickly getting sent out on their own  is not a sustainable training program. In fact, many people will experience frustration when they do not feel adequately prepared to do the job they were hired for.

If you do not train your employees on the specifics of their job, you cannot hold them accountable for that, especially if they have asked to learn. It is the organization’s responsibility to set their employees up for success. The first 90 days of employment is critical for this. Make sure that you outline what each of the new employee’s key responsibilities are, and then connect them with the subject matter experts that will be teaching them on those responsibilities. As they learn a new task, have the subject matter experts sign off on it. 

When you effectively train your employees for their job, you are more likely to retain them. People do not like to feel unprepared, and without providing training, you are putting the employee in a position to make mistakes, question themselves for their lack of understanding, and question their commitment to the company. However, when you give them the tools and resources that they need when they are hired and throughout their employment, they are likely to have a better experience and perform their job successfully.

Don’t underestimate the power of preparation. It benefits the organization as a whole and the individual employee, which makes everyone happier and more productive. If you want to retain the people you hire, make sure that you first train them effectively for their job.

-Meghan Slaughter