More than Half of Employees Say They Need Better Training

Appealing to different learning styles improves morale and performance.

Addressing several learning styles during employee training is crucial for employers for several reasons. It enhances the effectiveness of the training program. Individuals have diverse ways of processing information, such as visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing styles. By tailoring training methods to accommodate these preferences, employers can ensure that employees grasp and retain information more efficiently. This leads to better job performance, increased productivity, and reduced errors.

Research from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in 2022 found that 55 percent of workers said they needed additional training to perform their jobs more effectively. Nearly half of surveyed employees said that training offered by an employer is a deciding factor when choosing their place of work. A third of works also said they want more control over their training programs like being able to choose methods and formats that match their learning style. Ultimately, the effectiveness of training depends on how it’s delivered.

It’s important to note as well that employees are attracted to continuous training that helps that perform better and better their skillset.

There are a few different learning styles you can implement to help create an effective training program. Everyone has their own style of learning, so try your best to use as many methods as you’re able to in order to create a well-rounded program that will benefit the majority of your employees.

Visual learning

Visual learners grasp information best through visual aids and demonstrations. To appeal to them, you can incorporate images, diagrams, charts, and videos into training materials to illustrate concepts vividly. Presentation software like PowerPoint can be helpful as well for creating visually appealing materials. Hands-on demonstrations, where employees observe and replicate tasks visually, help reinforce their learning.

Auditory learning

Auditory learners do best with spoken information and discussions. To help them, you could conduct interactive training sessions that include lectures, group discussions, and verbal explanations. Encourage them to ask questions and share their thoughts during training sessions. Constructive feedback and one-on-one verbal guidance are important tools for helping auditory learners do well.

Kinesthetic learning

Kinesthetic learners learn best through hands-on experiences and physical activities. To appeal to them, you can offer practical exercises and other hands on training like actively guiding them through important processes. These activities should replicate daily tasks, allowing employees to actively participate and apply the skills they’re learning. Interactive workshops and on-the-job training opportunities are ideal for kinesthetic learners. Feedback on their practical application of skills is valuable in helping them improve their skills and understanding.

Learning through reading and writing

Reading/writing learners do best when presented written materials and opportunities for note-taking. These kinds of learners will appreciate comprehensive training manuals, written procedure guides, and any other documents they’re able to go back and reference.

You can encourage employees to take notes during training sessions, as the act of writing helps these employees reinforce their understanding. Make sure that all written information you provide are well-organized and available for review since these learners will benefit from being able to back and reference that material. Creating a library of resources and establishing a system for organizing written information can further support their learning style.