Focusing on Training and Development during COVID-19
Business executives have long since recognized the importance of training in regard to talent. Training is a part of talent management and falls under the auspices of the very critical function and role of human resources within an organization. The aim of training then is to ensure employee performance and goals are in alignment with the organization’s vision.
I can recall a time in organizations when people, including me, despised having to go to training. It was long, boring and I personally saw no benefit. That was the employee of yesterday. In 2020, employees know and understand the advantage training presents. They are seeking personal and professional development because they become far more valuable – an asset even – to their organization. They seek opportunities – from within the organization or on their own – to build and improve themselves; they perform smarter and better and they have high retention rates.
But how should organizations and employees move forward considering that COVID-19 is devasting the country, workplace and families in ways unimagined? Afterall, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) conservatively estimates nearly 700,000 deaths in the United States to date, and at least half a million people have been laid off from their jobs within the past month alone.
For sure, there are many challenges but organizations should do all it can to maintain the business, communicate openly and honestly as well as support employees in ways that bring value to the business and themselves. That is, ensure the continuity of training and convert to online classes, virtual conferences and/or podcasts using Zoom, Blackboard, WebEX, Sakai or similar learning management systems.
Organizations can also consider supporting employees further by making available organizational learning materials, e-books, and opportunities for online group study with fellow co-workers. Employees can look into free courses, and especially those related to soft skills, which is my next topic, where I will share their importance. Beyond the technical skills, which will get one in the door, it’s the soft skills that will keep you there.
To learn more about IACET and the accreditation process, visit us at iacet.org.
About the Author
Dr. Kelley is the Director of Accreditation and Training at IACET. With nearly two decades experience as a learner-focused educator with an orientation toward knowledge acquisition and application, Dr. Kelley has worked with many students throughout the world to facilitate meaningful learning experiences through critical thinking and reflection in order to inform theory and practice, and stimulate a rich marketplace of ideas.