Training is a mainstay of the corporate world. We send people to class or provide distance-learning resources to help them improve their knowledge and skills.
That’s important, but training can do more. The military and top companies for leadership development take advantage of training to create more benefits for participants and for the organization. Here are four ways training can be more than simply training.
Training can be the carrier of culture. There’s a reason companies like GE and Pepsico involve their executives as instructors in training programs.
Sure, they know the subject matter, but more importantly they understand the company culture. Program participants get to ask questions about puzzling situations and get answers drenched in “the way we do things around here.”
Training can be the place where relationships begin. People, with their knowledge and relationships are the wellspring of competitive advantage.
People from different parts of the company meet for the first time at a training program. People from different organizations meet at association or professional training. They learn about each other. And they begin a relationship that may benefit everyone in the future.
Training can be a reward. Especially in organizations with strong leadership development programs, participants see attendance at coveted training programs as a reward for superior performance.
Training can be a burnout prevention device. The term “sabbatical” comes from the same root as “Sabbath” and means “to cease.” Historically, sabbaticals are a feature of the academic life. Corporate sabbatical programs, with significant paid time off, are rare.
Training coupled with time off from regular duties can function as a mini-sabbatical. Participants bring back new ideas, but also a refreshed spirit, when then return to the job.
You’re investing in training anyway, why not investigate ways you can multiply your benefits?
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