Workplace Training Is Easier Than You Think

It’s no secret that turnover can be very expensive, so instead of investing in turnover, why not invest in your employees to keep them happy and productive? Employees with career longevity bring in more sales, so there’s really more to turnover than just training—there are opportunity costs as well.

There are several types of training, including new employee training, sales training, continuing education and personal improvement/group dynamics. While your store’s needs and budget will determine the training you choose, every effort you make to increase your staff’s knowledge and confidence will reflect in overall improved performance. Remember, an investment in training is an investment in your future. Whatever you do, make it fun. Ask your employees to help you design a training program if you don’t already have one. Get feedback from them, and remember you don’t need to have all the answers.

New Employee Training

If you don’t already have an orientation and new employee-training program, it’s a great place to start. Put together a manual and keep it simple, outlining goals and expectations for the first week, the first month, etc. Cover the basics, such as how to operate the register, opening and closing, call list for emergencies, and product knowledge.

Spend some time with new employees to make sure they understand what’s expected and know where to turn for help. Whether you have a high school student starting his first job or a seasoned individual, the working environment is still new and different. While basics seem obvious to an employee after a few weeks, it probably wasn’t that obvious when he started. Help new employees start out with confidence by showing them that you care by taking the time to begin on the right foot.

If your organization is large enough, you may already have an orientation process. But if your business is smaller, it doesn’t need to be formal or fancy. The main thing is that you have a process and are always looking to improve it. Asking your employees for feedback is a great way to engage them and monitor the success of your program.

Sales Training, Promotions & Continuing Education

After a new employee is comfortable with the basics, initiate sales training. There are two critical components within sales training: product knowledge and asking for the sale. It’s not uncommon to be strong in one area and weak in the other. Employees geared toward science might be more comfortable with product knowledge while outgoing employees could be more comfortable with asking for the sale. Encourage your employees to build on their varied strengths by having them train each other.

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