When you have brought a newly hired employee on board, it is important to remember that training and induction are not the same thing. A good induction helps individuals understand the company and its culture. It defines the expectations for the person and the role that they will be filling. Most businesses do an acceptable job in this area.
Training, on the other hand, prepares them to do the job at hand. While the focus is understandably placed upon the product offerings, it is just as important that the same emphasis be placed upon the techniques that will create the greatest opportunity for the new employee’s success.
All too often I have seen more emphasis placed upon the induction than the training. We all like to brag about our legacy and accomplishments. While understandable, this is a short-sighted approach.
If you want the best for not only this new employee, but your total staff as a whole, be willing to invest in the proper training. Develop a training curriculum and timetable that is adhered to. Remember that both habits and attitudes are formed quickly. It is imperative that each be positive. Expect your new trainees to take instruction seriously and insist that they deliver results consistent with what has been taught.
There is an investment of both time and money required to hire and train correctly. However, the cost of not doing so is even greater over time, as both employee turnover and missed opportunities take their toll. How much can your firm afford to squander?
Tom Jennings
