Blog: Why employers should embrace on-the-job training and team upskilling
Employers who embrace on-the-job training and team upskilling understand the importance of investing in their workforce.
Forward-thinking employers recognise the value of on-the-job training and team upskilling. They view it as an investment into their greatest asset, their people. Many of the most successful companies thrive because their strategies empower employees while driving long-term growth.
Yet, according to 2024 research from the New Economic Foundation (NEF), UK employers are spending a fifth less on employee training than a decade ago. This decline is in stark contrast to the proven benefits of upskilling which can enhance team performance and company success.
If you are considering introducing on-the-job training for your workforce, here is what you need to know.
Bridge skills gaps
Cornwall’s biggest industries are constantly innovating and changing. The county is becoming a key player in sectors such as data, space, clean energy and engineering. As these sectors evolve, bridging the skills gap through on-the-job training is crucial to meeting the growing demands of these fields.
Employees value opportunities to learn, progress and contribute meaningfully to their workplace. By offering training, you empower your team with the skills they need to advance their careers. This doesn’t just benefit individuals, it also boosts team morale, productivity and job satisfaction as a whole.
Employee retention
Did you know that 94% of employees said they would stay longer at a company if it invested in their learning and development? This statistic, uncovered in LinkedIn’s 2024 Workplace Learning Report, highlights the link between on-the-job training and employee loyalty.
Without opportunities for progression, job satisfaction declines and recruiting new talent becomes a costly challenge. Your existing employees have valuable experience and insights and can recognise areas for growth or expansion. In terms of both finances and resources, it pays to invest in a team that is already familiar with your company’s culture.
Upskilling also leverages the links between your team members. On-the-job training opportunities naturally foster more collaboration and teamwork. Training initiatives not only improve the bond between employer and employee but also strengthen relationships across the team, creating a more cohesive, productive unit.
By prioritising training, you demonstrate a commitment to your employees’ growth and happiness. When people can see a clear path to advancement within your organisation, they are more likely to make long-term plans with you.
Productivity levels
On-the-job training equips your team with an ever-growing practical skillset that they can immediately apply to their day-to-day. This fosters an environment where confidence and productivity thrive, supported by a steady stream of fresh knowledge and ideas. In fact, training leads to a 37% increase in productivity in an organisation according to IBM.
Upskilling your employees can prepare them to take on new challenges which can foster innovation and streamline your company’s existing processes. Organisations that prioritise employee’s learning opportunities can enjoy a more engaged, confident and adaptable workforce as a result.
Stay ahead of the curve
In today’s fast-paced business landscape, companies that fail to innovate risk falling behind. Embedding on-the-job training and upskilling into your company’s fabric ensures you remain competitive, with a confident and forward-thinking team ready to embrace change.
While investing in training doesn’t guarantee growth, it paves the way for it. A skilled and adaptable workforce allows your business to seize new opportunities, set yourself apart from the competition and become a leader in your sector.
If you are looking to future-proof your business, prioritising your employees’ development is essential. Empower your team with the tools they need to succeed and they can help drive your company’s success—for everyone’s benefit.
Cornwall Opportunities
Introducing on-the-job training doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your business strategy. Small, strategic steps can yield significant rewards and there are plenty of different training types to suit any sector, team size and strategy. Your employees are your most valuable resources and their growth can unlock your company’s full potential.