The importance of creating a strong induction training program cannot be underestimated. Many workplaces fail to recognize the value of a comprehensive induction and instead expect new employees to quickly become productive without any guidance. However, induction training offers numerous benefits, such as increased employee retention, improved morale, and higher productivity. It is crucial to invest time and effort into developing an effective induction program that sets employees up for success from the start.
A well-designed induction plan can ultimately save both time and money that would otherwise be spent on covering absences and recruiting replacements. The induction process serves as the initial interaction between you and your new employee, making it crucial to invest in getting it right. Ideally, an induction should incorporate the following:
a) Providing a comprehensive introduction to key personnel (rather than just a simple greeting, allow sufficient time for acquainting with their specific job roles).
b) Conducting a tour of the premises, highlighting essential locations such as fire exits, restrooms, meeting rooms, boardrooms, and helpful offices like IT support and administration staff.
Remember to guide them to the location of office stationery and photocopiers/faxes. Additionally, provide health and safety training as required, which may cover topics like manual handling and the whereabouts of the health and safety notice board. Moreover, instruct them on how to accomplish daily tasks and the whereabouts of essential folders/files. The fourth task is pivotal, yet it is frequently disregarded.
The induction training should be conducted over several days, depending on the availability of the staff responsible for it. Ideally, each task should be explained, allowing the trainee some time to practice. Afterward, the trainer should return to assess progress, clarify any misunderstandings, and proceed to the next task. Here are guidelines for induction trainers:
- Provide your contact details to the trainee so they can reach you through any preferred method (phone, email, in person).
- Supply training materials, including a quick reference guide and preferably a comprehensive manual that explains the task in detail.
- Regularly follow up with the trainee to monitor their progress. Lack of communication does not necessarily mean they are doing well; some individuals may simply avoid asking questions.
- Request sufficient time from your manager to carry out your training role effectively. Highlight the need for providing training materials and being available to answer questions on short notice.
- If you enjoy conducting induction training and wish to make it a bigger part of your role, consider attending a “train the trainer” course.
Once the employee has completed their induction training, ask them for feedback on the process and how they feel it went. This feedback will help improve the procedure for future staff members. To obtain a copy of our feedback form free of charge, please email us at [email protected].
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?How-To-Create-An-Effective-Induction-Training-Program&id=488620
