Low-Cost Training for Employees

Take advantage of online and alternative training options that won’t break the bank

Training can seem like a luxury when you are trying to keep your business running, but employees who are learning and growing tend to stay with a job longer and help your bottom line with their enhanced skills. Training does not have to be expensive and with webinars, podcasts and DVDs, can often be done at an employee’s own pace. To increase the effectiveness of training: 1. Set a tone that stresses it is important.
2. Require an action plan afterwards.
3. Managers should follow up and ask about the training.

Train the boss

First you need to know what your needs are by making sure you are properly assessing the skill sets that should be bolstered.

Evaluate your needs

Assess your training needs from the basic skill building of front-line customer service providers to leadership training of your next generation of managers and then tailor the training by cost and sophistication.

Sometimes it’s free

Take advantage of free offerings from government agencies and from entities that contract with the government.
U.S. Small Business Administration offers free training in classrooms and online on everything from building your brand to marketing fundamentals and how to find startup funding. The online courses are 30-minutes long and self- paced.

Be practical

A lot of managers and line supervisors don’t need instruction in high concepts but practical training in how to handle situations they face every day.

Evaluate the pros and cons

The key to making sure you have spent your money and staff time well is evaluating the training that your employees go through.
online training to be sure you are getting what you want.

Keep it in-house

All the whiz bang high-tech training may not give the flesh and blood value of learning from someone on your staff.

• Be sure to read the fine print on online training costs.
• Meet with employees or set up a feedback loop on various types of training.
• Keep track of your choices for future reference.

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