Now that many companies have transitioned to a hybrid workplace, there are numerous formats to provide training to employees. Options include (1) in-person learning, (2) live, remote learning, (3) recorded sessions/ videos, and (4) e-learning with videos and activities. There are benefits and shortcomings of each method, and we wanted to take a moment to look at each and provide some guidance as you finish preparing for Q4.
- In Person-Training
There are many benefits of in-person learning and it is no surprise that it was the pre-pandemic standard for complex training sessions. Firstly, there are no distractions such as someone knocking at the door, chores, family members, and pets. It is very hard to focus when other tasks and people are fighting for your attention. In-person learning also provides the perfect environment for questions and open discussions. Many individuals feel much more comfortable engaging in human-like conversations when the atmosphere itself is human-like. Finally, in-person learning allows for connections to be built between managers, employees, and instructors. Although we have all become experts in forging connections with others in a virtual format, there is no format that will replace the quality and ease of connecting face-to-face.
- Live, Remote Learning
If in-person training is not an option, our next favorite method is live, remote learning. For example, t having an instructor on zoom with your team, going through the training session in real time. We like this format because it provides the same opportunity to ask questions and have open conversations, which is beneficial as oftentimes, questions lead to other important information being unveiled or the birth of interesting conversations. Additionally, it is harder to be distracted in your home when you are speaking with a real group of people and know your attention is valued and noticed. These sessions also allow for interactive workshops and team-breakout rooms, which reinforce what is being learned.
- Recorded Sessions and Videos
It is now commonplace for meetings to be recorded, and if someone was unable to attend, they would be merely sent the recording. Recorded videos are time-saving and cost-effective, as the training sessions do not have to be given multiple times, to small groups of people. The downside of recorded videos is that they do not offer space for open communication. Questions must be asked either through phone calls, online messaging channels, email, or text. Individuals may forget their questions, or be deterred from asking as they do not have the same connection to their instructor as they would during a live session. Additionally, it is very easy to fall into passively watching training videos and not internalizing the information that is given. This can be dangerous when the information relates to a complicated business process or safety.
- E-Learning
With today’s technology, e-learning has taken root in many of our businesses. Now you can hire a company to record, annotate, animate, and make interactive company training. Although this format is more effective than purely watching a video, similar issues to recorded sessions arise. Oftentimes, one only has to click through a presentation and answer straightforward questions to have it marked that they have “completed” a training course. Many programs are designed where one can answer the “check your learning” questions as many times as needed to get it correct, de-motivating trainees from actually listening and learning.
In critical life saving training such as active shooter training, (1) in-person or (2) live, remote learning is the most effective format. The information presented in our active shooter training can save an individual’s life during the case of an active shooting, and it is important that each of your employees fully understands what to do in such a situation. At Evans Brothers Consulting, we will work closely with your employees, establishing relationships and educating them about the proper steps to take if they are to encounter an active shooter.
Take the initiative today and contact info@evansbrothersconsulting.com or call 617-545-1500 to set up a short, no-cost, preliminary discussion.
No one knows Boston like the Evans Brothers!