Recruitment Obstacles

What makes a worker feel empowered? Specialized training is one important element according to research by PwC. "Among respondents of their 2022 study, 49% said their job requires some level of specialist training."

Upskilling employees with specialized training definitely brings more benefits than drawbacks to companies. Amongst their benefits, the School of Motion identifies that upskilling:

  • Reduces turnover by helping employees continue their professional growth.
  • Improves company reputation and brings in more candidates.
  • Increases productivity by helping employees become more versatile.
  • Keeps employees engaged by exploring skills they're interested in.
  • Adds skills to employees' resumes, which improves future job prospects.

With all these advantages in mind, what techniques can be used to implement upskilling? According to the School of Motion, there are five ideas to start:


1. Buddy Systems

Setting up a system for shadowing or mentoring is a quick way to start. Employees sit with co-workers for a "day in the life" experience or specific skills training. This approach works for onboardings too. New team members can get comfortable while learning new skills.


2. Lunch and Learns

Group and educational lunches have been a source of employee learning for decades. Lunch and learns provide an opportunity for someone to present on a topic with a Q and A session afterwards. Lunch and learns get mixed feedback, but free food is always a safe bet.


3. Online Resources

There are various online classes and programs designed for the workforce. For example, LinkedIn and Google, as well as resources for non-workplace knowledge. In addition, Ivy League colleges offer free classes that require a few hours a week. These are great for small groups of coworkers to do together.


4. Professional Development Hours

Many companies have found success with upskilling by installing professional development hours or professional development plans (PDPs). Project management giant Atlassian made this concept part of their culture. They’ve developed multiple features by allowing their employees to work on projects that interest them at least once per year.


5. Community-Driven Learning

A less formal way to encourage upskilling is setting up a community of internal and external experts. This is done via Slack or Facebook groups, attending conferences or local networking events.


Does your company use any of these Specialized Training options? Tell us in the comments section below.  


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