It’s no secret that technology has taken over the way we live our lives. From the moment you wake up to the time you go to bed, there’s a good chance that some technology is involved. And while many people might think that this increased reliance on technology is a bad thing, there are quite a few benefits that come along with it – especially in business.
One of the significant advantages of technology is that it can help to improve training for new hires. After all, if you can use technology to make the process more efficient, you can get your new employees up-to-speed faster and with less hassle. Here are a few creative ways to use technology in training new hires.
1. Online training courses
A common way to use technology in training is to utilize online courses. This can be beneficial if you have new employees in different parts of the country or world. Rather than trying to get everyone together in one place for training, you can simply provide them with access to an online course.
You can also use online courses to supplement in-person training. For example, if you’re covering a lot of information in a short time, you can give your employees access to an online course they can complete at their own pace. This way, they can review the material later if they need to without feeling rushed.
2. VR training
If you want to take training to the next level, you can use VR technology. VR headsets can transport employees into lifelike simulations where they can learn and practice new skills. This is an excellent option for jobs that require a high degree of manual dexterity or those that are potentially dangerous. For example, force-feedback gloves can provide haptic feedback, which can help employees feel more engaged in the VR training process.
Additionally, VR can create simulations of complex customer service scenarios. This can help new hires practice their responses and learn how to handle challenging situations. Some companies are even using VR to train their sales teams. They can immerse themselves in a virtual showroom and practice their pitches.
3. Gamification
Gamification is a popular trend in many industries, and training is no exception. Incorporating game-like elements into the training process can make it more fun and engaging for employees. For example, you can create a leaderboard to track employee progress or give out rewards for completing specific tasks.
You can also use gamification to create simulations of real-world scenarios. This can help employees learn and retain information more effectively. Many companies use gamification to train their employees on new software or processes. Turning the training into a game can make it more enjoyable and prevent employees from getting bored.
4. Microlearning
Microlearning is a type of learning that focuses on small, bite-sized pieces of information. This can be beneficial for new hires who need to learn a lot of information in a short amount of time. Because microlearning is designed to be quick and easy, it can help employees retain information more effectively.
One way to use microlearning in training is to create short videos. These videos can cover specific topics or steps in a process. You can also use microlearning to create quizzes or other assessments that test employees on their knowledge. This can help you identify any areas where they need more training. Ask your employees which type of microlearning they prefer, and then create content that meets their needs.
5. Mobile apps
Not every training solution needs to be high-tech. Sometimes, a simple mobile app can be just as effective. Mobile apps can deliver content, track employee progress, and provide access to resources.
For example, you can create an app that contains all the training materials for your new hires. This can include videos, articles, presentations, and more. Employees can access the content whenever needed, and you can be sure they’re getting the most up-to-date information.
Because the app is on their mobile device, they can also take it anywhere and refer to it later. This is especially useful for employees who need to review the material after they’ve already started working. Some apps even allow employees to take quizzes or complete other assessments. This can help you track employee progress and identify areas where they need more training.
Technology can be a valuable tool for training new hires. It can help employees learn more effectively and retain information more efficiently. Technology can make the training process more enjoyable and engaging when used correctly. Ultimately, this can lead to better-trained employees who are more productive and less likely to make mistakes. If you’re looking for ways to improve your training program, consider incorporating some of these technology-based solutions.