Inspiring employees to learn and develop new skills is essential if you are to retain talent and maintain levels of performance in a changing work environment. You can start by talking to your employees about what they like doing and discuss any areas they would like greater support in their current role. Looking at development as a positive activity will encourage employees to take part – seeing it as corrective or to address a weakness will not. Discussing potential career plans and opportunities is essential in encouraging employees to embrace development opportunities.
Development can be gained through a range of activities including:
- coaching
- shadowing
- deputising
- project work
- secondments
- reading and research
- traditional as well as online courses and qualifications
Not every intervention suits every learning style or every personal situation so it is important to be open to finding the appropriate activity. This will encourage employees to develop the skills they need now and for the future.