In the technology space, if there is anything that is constant, it is change. New programming languages, frameworks and productivity tools pop up all the time. In this scenario, a company cannot keep up if it does not adopt the latest trends in training. In this article, we will discuss five on-the-job training methods.
Related: How to write a job description to find the best employees
On-the-job training methods for tech companies
Over the decades, training methods have evolved. If you are an IT, web design or web development company, you need to adopt the training methods that work in today’s world.
- Computer-based learning.
- Internships.
- Group assignments.
- Job rotation.
- Instruction-based training.
After you scan the five training methods below, keep reading to learn why training is worth the investment.
1. Computer-based learning
Photo: Austin Distel on Unsplash
The first on our list of on-the-job training methods for IT and development firms is obvious: computer instruction.
Tech consulting firm Capgemini gives online access to its training program to soon-to-be-employees. Future employees complete the training on their own time before formally reporting for their first day of work. By the time they join the company, they have already received a part of their training and are ready to learn practical applications.
Many IT firms in India have tie-ups with platforms like Coursera, edX and Pluralsight.
Some companies have started delivering part of their fresher training in this form so that no time is wasted in building a foundation for on-the-job training.
2. Internships
This is the most popular on-the-job training method: learning while doing.
Practical skills like coding and graphic design can be theoretically taught only up to a certain point. With this method, the intern learns the intricacies of the job while doing complex tasks.
Usually, companies assign experienced mentors to each intern so they can work under close supervision. This way, newbies get a guide to ensure consistent learning.
3. Group assignments
Photo: Perry Grone on Unsplash
This is one of the best on-the-job training methods. It is the old-school method of group learning. Each group performs tasks as a team.
Hackathons and programming boot camps are two examples of group-based learning methods. They’re not only great team-building exercises but occasionally produce original apps and improved processes.
4. Job rotation
With this method, new employees are tasked with learning different skills one by one. Their roles and responsibilities are rotated with other trainees at regular intervals.
This strategy helps instil empathy towards colleagues working in other divisions. It also gives them a broad overview of the workings of the business.
5. Instruction-based training
In this method, the employee is given a trainer who guides the trainee with set instructions and methods to do the job. The trainee is asked to perform the job as per the instructions. Whenever needed, the supervisor helps him correct the process.
Advantages of these types of employee training
Academic education is often limited to theoretical learning. On-the-job training gives new employees the chance to apply those theories to real projects.
There are other advantages such as:
- Employees start contributing to the organization on day one
- Motivation is improved by virtue of the fact that their employer is investing in them
What’s more, on-the-job training is an effective way to identify weaknesses early on and give proper guidance to improve them.
Why employees need training
Employees are expected to accept assigned projects and deliver work that meets a certain level of quality. Not all employees arrive with the same skill set.
To bring them on the same page
If you have hired new employees, you have a lot to do. You not only need to train them for the actual job that they will be accountable for, but also in regard to your company culture, ethics and values.
This is a short-duration training called induction, where the new employees are introduced to the company, its policies and values. Companies with Human Resource (HR) departments typically hand this process off to them.
To upgrade skills
We have already discussed how change is an inevitable part of life for technology companies. To keep staff performing at an optimum level, employees should be upskilled regularly.
Related: Importance of human resource management in tech startups
Wrapping it up
In this article we discussed five on-the-job training methods. We also discussed the advantages of such types of employee training.
Education is a long-term investment — not just in the employee, but the organization as well. Choose your employees wisely, then invest in their learning. You won’t be disappointed.
