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Isolated Workers Are Thirsty for Training

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In the past decade of underwriting our research of talent and hiring, one trend emerged and has been consistently strengthened since the Great Recession of 2008: training and professional development are critically important to employees and job seekers. Organizations regarded as learning organizations are among the most sought after employment destinations. In our newest research conducted just last week of the self-isolating, working-from-home workforce, training is once again top of mind. Employees are adjusting to their new workplace reality and the desire for opportunities that sharpen skills, help improve productivity, gain self-sufficiency, stay inspired, and keep connected while distanced is high. 

We asked, these training resources came out on top

 When asked what resources would be helpful to employees while they adapt to working remotely, respondents cited webinars, certification courses, and virtual meet-ups for a variety of topics, including: 

  • Work-from-home effectiveness skills training

  • Remote tech & software use primers

  • Video conference tips

  • Technology troubleshooting

  • Productivity, focus & discipline guidance

  • Remote problem solving & collaboration

  • Managing & mentoring remotely

  • Remote client management

  • Industry trend updates

  • Inspiration & morale talks by outside speakers

  • Morale boosting virtual gatherings with distributed teams

  • Best practices panels on working and managing remotely

 Our years of research have shown that employers who offer formalized and funded programs for talent training and developing enjoy higher levels of employee satisfaction and loyalty, and these programs also contribute to overall workplace happiness. 

Training is more important now than ever before

 Pandemic-caused changes around remote work are an opportunity for companies to improve their reputation as destination employers (companies that top candidates actively seek out as a stop on their career journey). In research we conducted last year about the future of work, almost 100% of respondents said that they prefer to work with a company that is a proven learning organization. But when asked about their current employer, most employees gave their companies a C when it comes to a proactive learning culture. Putting resources behind employee training and development could be particularly impactful during the pandemic disruption. Our past studies strongly suggest that employees at verified learning organizations feel better cared for by their employer and have a positive view about their company culture.  In a time of uncertainty and forced separation, distance learning can bridge the psychological and physical distance employees are feeling, leading to a more motivated and inspired workforce. For more insights on managing during the COVID-19 pandemic, click here.