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Training is not a Luxury, it's a Necessity

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The Frustration is Real

An HR/Learning and Capability person for a reasonably large client company said to me yesterday…“I’m sorry some people have pulled out of the course, and some people will be late”


They looked at me so frustrated having planned this course for weeks in advance and then added…“It’s a mindset, and a constant battle, people consider training to be a luxury and not a necessity”.

I thought it’s true! Training is not a Luxury it’s a Necessity 

Investment rather than Cost

Training is often undervalued, under-prioritized and one of the first expenses to be cut when times get tough. Despite the cost of training the return on investment for employees and business is known to be immense.


The cost of training must be perceived as an investment, and the prioritizing of training must be driven by management into all sectors of an organization.


Training is vital for sustainable business growth and success. Organizations go through lengthy processes to recruit qualified and suitable employees, but often the emphasis on skill stops there, with some business leaders disregarding the importance of developing their employees and nurturing their potential. 


Over the past couple of years, the world of work has seen significant disruption and change, with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Employees have been expected to change and adapt to new digital technology at an accelerated rate, with little or no training.


Businesses spend huge amounts of money on technology and very little by comparison on training staff how to use the technology. What is the point in spending a vast amount of money on technology and software, if staff can’t use it effectively?


Staff morale takes a hammering and employee confidence, and loyalty is replaced with frustration, thoughts of leaving the organization.

The Benefits are Immense

Your most important business investment is the investment you make in your employees.

 

Training is essential to all good businesses and organizations.

 

It provides a host of benefits. It enhances employee performance, boosts employee skills, knowledge, prepares employees for higher responsibilities, builds confidence, productivity, and loyalty, reduces employee turnover, improves the overall culture, shows employees they are valued, build better workers and more productive members of the organization results in quality service, customer satisfaction, improved morale, management succession, business development, growth, profitability and so on.

 

Therefore, training is not a luxury it is a business necessity, and employees need to be encouraged to prioritize their learning and skill development for the sake of the business.

Training: A Necessity, Not a Luxury - Investing in Growth and Success

In a world of constant change, training isn't a luxury reserved for a select few—it's a fundamental necessity. This blog explores the critical role training plays in personal and professional development, emphasizing why it's an essential investment rather than an optional indulgence.

  1. Adaptation to Change: The pace of change in today's world is unprecedented. Training equips individuals with the skills needed to adapt to evolving technologies, industries, and job requirements. It's not just about keeping up; it's about staying ahead.

  2. Professional Growth and Advancement: Training is the gateway to professional growth. Whether acquiring new skills or refining existing ones, continuous learning positions individuals for career advancement. In a competitive job market, those who invest in their development are more likely to excel.

  3. Increased Productivity and Efficiency: Well-trained individuals are more productive and efficient. Training enhances proficiency, reduces errors, and streamlines processes. The result is a more competent workforce capable of achieving better results in less time.

  4. Boost to Confidence and Morale: Training instills confidence. When individuals feel equipped to handle challenges and contribute meaningfully, it positively impacts morale. This boost in confidence not only benefits individuals but also creates a more empowered and motivated team.

  5. Future-Proofing Careers: As industries evolve, certain skills become obsolete while new ones emerge. Training is the key to future-proofing careers. It ensures that individuals remain relevant and valuable in the face of industry changes, safeguarding against professional stagnation.

  6. Innovation and Problem-Solving: Training fosters innovation and problem-solving. Exposure to new ideas and approaches stimulates creativity, enabling individuals to tackle challenges with fresh perspectives. This culture of innovation is vital for both personal and organizational success.

 

In a world where knowledge is power, training is the passport to success. It's not a luxury for the privileged few but a necessity for anyone aspiring to grow, adapt, and thrive. From enhancing productivity to fostering innovation, training is an investment that pays dividends in personal and professional fulfilment. So, let's shift the narrative—from viewing training as a luxury to recognizing it as an indispensable foundation for building a brighter and more successful future.

 

Cathi Barker

Microsoft Master Instructor

Microsoft Innovative Educator

Educator in the private and public sector for nearly 40 years

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