Training is a significant component in human resource development. It is important for both employees and the organization since the purpose of training is to improve the performance of the whole eco-system. So it makes perfect sense to maximize the outcome of training. The expectation is to leverage training and cover the performance gap between the existing and what it should be. In essence, training & development is a process that enriches all and acts as a catalyst to help the organization achieve its objectives.

Even as millions get invested on training and development, there are several challenges that come in the way of effective training. Employees and also part of the leadership consider training as a boring activity that does not have much impact. For many it is one more tedious experience sitting through endless lectures that mostly happen during personal time like weekends. For many, there is also the fear of getting measured among others during the training. Some employees even lack the commitment towards training without any material incentive post training.

The question is how do we overcome these challenges? Many times we fail to recognize that in reality training is a powerful tool that can deliver immense benefits if handled right. Take a look at some of the important points that need to be considered for reaping those benefits:

• Planning for the individual and group, based on training need assessment (TNA)
• Standardization and benchmarking of the training process, including creating right training content
• Advantages gained over time for creating a company-wide culture of training readiness
• Due importance of following pre-training procedures e.g. convincing an employee about a training for developing a specific skill. This way the employee doesn’t feel forced
• Address psychological issues like employee mindsets on training stereotypes
• Ensure new skills learnt during training are reinforced in the workplace
• Measure the impact of training by comparing the performance before and after
• Personal involvement of senior leadership in the training process. This is crucial since it can make training work and also bring in results quickly

The silver lining is that employees of many companies take training as integral part of their development and growth story. For them, each training event is a stepping stone in the journey for excellence. Their leaders have shown the way by their own example. The culture now permeates to the lowest employee.

About the Author

Bidyut K. Acharya is a Consultant and Corporate Trainer heading Management Development Services. Kolkata. India. He can be reached at bka@management-dev.com