Training is the process of instructing an individual about how to carry out tasks directly related to his or her current job. The purpose of training staff is to develop existing skills or gain new ones. This contrasts with development which involves helping individual employees to achieve their full potential, regardless of whether this is related to their existing position or role. There are two main methods of training: on-the-job and off-the-job training. On-the-job training is where employees receive instruction in their workplace whilst carrying out their job. Off-the-job training is where employees receive instruction away from the workplace, for instance at a training centre, college or university. Training brings benefits to both employees and the business. It increases the levels of skills, so improving productivity, quality and reduces the risk of injuries in the workplace. It makes employees more flexible, enabling them to respond quickly to changes in technology and demand. It also motivates employees by improving their career prospects.
For Redrow, induction training has been paramount in ensuring staff turnover rates are lower than the industry average. New recruits at all levels receive a formal induction. Induction provides initial training specific to the employee’s role as well as giving an insight into the company as a whole. This helps recruits to quickly settle into their roles.
Whilst training gives businesses the benefits of greater efficiency, improved customer service and more motivated staff it does come at a price. These include the direct costs of the training as well as potential loss of productivity during time spent away from the job. Redrow, unlike many of its competitors, feels that the benefits far outweigh the costs. For example, Redrow’s Management Development programme benefits both the company and the employee as it has