Cegos Group recently conducted extensive interviews with over 120 clients across the globe to find out what challenges they face when training their people.
It appears organisations face several challenges, from budget constraints to dealing with disruptive technologies, such as AI.
Based on this comprehensive research, we identified significant trends among companies aiming to ensure training and development meet these challenges.
Here are 7 of the most common approaches that emerged during in-depth conversations with our clients.
Sommaire
- 1. The growing importance of soft and technical skills
- 2. A need to develop strategies that fully engage learners
- 3. Personalised training and the use of micro learning
- 4. Creating an impact with technology and digital platforms
- 5. The necessity of adapting to challenges
- 6. Maintaining a balance between internal vs. external training
- 7. The changing face of blended learning
- Conclusion
1. The growing importance of soft and technical skills
As organisations grapple with the pace of change, there is an increased emphasis on developing soft skills (leadership, communication, emotional intelligence) and even more, hard skills (technical expertise, health & safety) to keep up with the need to transform their businesses. Coaching, mentoring programs, and job rotations provide comprehensive development opportunities.
2. A need to develop strategies that fully engage learners
Ensuring learners engage with training content, with a willingness to invest time in training amidst other work priorities, is crucial. Leadership should commit to supporting development and promoting a culture of continuous learning, which is necessary to sustain training initiatives.
3. Personalised training and the use of micro learning
Training is increasingly personalised to fit individual and job-specific needs, focusing on immediate and relevant responses. Micro-training programs and tailored learning solutions are designed to quickly address specific skills and knowledge gaps.
4. Creating an impact with technology and digital platforms
Digital learning platforms and other e-learning solutions support asynchronous and self-driven learning cultures. Artificial intelligence and automation tools are often used to enhance productivity and streamline training processes.
5. The necessity of adapting to challenges
Organisations face challenges such as limited budgets, decentralised structures, and the need to maintain engagement in remote settings. Continuous adaptation and flexibility in training methods are essential to meet the evolving needs of the workforce and business environment.
6. Maintaining a balance between internal vs. external training
Some organisations rely heavily on internal training for highly technical skills, leveraging the knowledge and skills of internal experts. External partners are often used for specific seminars, leadership training and topics requiring specialised knowledge. A combination of internal and external coaches is used to train employees at various levels, from middle managers to executives.
7. The changing face of blended learning
Organisations use a mix of internal and external providers, combining virtual and face-to-face learning solutions to cater to different needs and preferences. Hybrid training models are now particularly popular for those trying to accommodate remote and geographically dispersed teams.
Conclusion
Most organisations prefer flexible and mixed training models that combine virtual and face-to-face learning. These are usually tailored to specific needs, and leverage both internal and external resources.
Low uptake and engagement with self-directed learning remains a challenge. However, such an approach is necessary for greater flexibility and scalability.
The key is to think first about what specific skills you want to target. Several factors – from budget constraints and employee location to training practicalities (e.g., technical training that requires specialised equipment) – need to be considered. After that, you can decide which approach has the best chance of delivering results.
Incorporating these approches not only enhances training effectiveness but also empowers organisations to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world. By embracing innovation in learning, businesses can unlock their full potential and achieve sustainable growth.
If you would like to know more about how Cegos can help you deliver a variety of training options, contact us today.
