Types of Training | Business Studies for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

The Importance of Training to a Business

• Training is essential for enhancing the knowledge and skills of employees, enabling them to effectively carry out their job responsibilities.
• Businesses must ensure that both new hires and current staff receive appropriate training and development opportunities.
  • Training involves imparting new skills, such as learning a new process or getting acquainted with new equipment.
  • Development focuses on enhancing existing skills, like providing a refresher course on software already in use.

Reasons Why Companies Invest in Employee Training and Development

A well-trained workforce is crucial for various reasons:

• Well-trained employees tend to be more productive and efficient in their roles.
• Investing in training and development makes staff feel valued and appreciated.
• Training enhances flexibility and resilience among employees, enabling them to adapt to changes effectively.
• Reducing errors and waste in the production process through training leads to improved operational efficiency.
• Training also creates better opportunities for internal promotion within the organization.

Types of Training

• Businesses typically employ three main types of training for their employees.

Induction Training

New employees receive induction training when they commence employment at a company. 

• This training acquaints them with the organization, its values, policies, procedures, as well as their specific job duties and responsibilities. 
  • For instance, Marks & Spencer provides induction training to new hires, encompassing customer service protocols, product knowledge, store regulations, and safety measures.

The Advantages & Disadvantages of Induction Training

On-the-Job Training

On-the-job training occurs during employees' regular job responsibilities.

• It enables employees to acquire new skills and knowledge directly from colleagues while fulfilling their job duties.
• For instance, a sous chef at The Ivy Restaurant in York undergoes on-the-job training provided by the Head Chef to master new dish preparation, equipment usage, or cooking techniques.

The Advantages & Disadvantages of On-the-Job Training

Off-the-Job Training

Off-site training occurs away from the usual workplace environment.

• It can manifest in various formats such as workshops, seminars, conferences, or online courses.
• For instance, educators participate in exam board training sessions where they acquire knowledge on syllabus delivery and aiding students in exam preparation.

The Advantages & Disadvantages of Off-the-Job Training