On-site vs off-site training

Guest post by Scarlet Baker, Marketing Manager at Popup Chicago.

As a business, how do you train your employees? What method works best for you? In today’s world, employees and prospective employees are essential to every business and organization. There are two different methods when it comes to training your employees. In this article, we will explore both on-site and off-site training.

On-site Training

On-site training is education provided for employees at their place of business or in other in-person, physical spaces for learning. Like with anything, there are several advantages of onsite training.

Encourages team building and camaraderie

Virtual training sessions and workshops may be easier for some people and it may seem like a better option for a company. However, it cannot replace the benefits you can get from face-to-face, on-site training. An in-person training opportunity gives people a chance to have better, more fluid discussions and conversations. Team building and camaraderie are more likely to happen when you’re meeting in person. During an on-site training day, you can have coffee and lunch breaks. This gives people an opportunity to socialize. On-site training can be very valuable.

Compels employees to be “in the zone”

During an online training session, it’s easier for people to multitask and be distracted while on the computer. The good news about on-site training is it eliminates the opportunity and temptation to multitask during the training. Employees training on-site and in real-time do not have the option to disengage and finish the training at a later date. They cannot turn off their camera or mute themselves. On-site training requires employees to be engaged, focused, and actively participate in the training.

Facilitates internal networking and relationship building

On-site training is a team-building opportunity and a chance to bring everyone together in one space. It is an internal networking event. Team members can more easily approach management, colleagues, and counterparts from other teams. When participating in an online training session, people are less inclined to approach one another. Beginning a conversation with someone is much easier in person. On-site training can open up new opportunities within the organization.

Provides a more “hands-on” training experience

Active participation is a very important part of on-site training. It gives employees a chance to get out of their chairs, move around, and get involved in practical tasks. Exercises such as role-playing, quizzes, problem-solving exercises, and games are more engaging in on-site training. This is particularly helpful for technical industries. Employees can have a “hands-on” experience and benefit from close-up physical demonstrations. It also gives them an opportunity to do a return demonstration themselves to solidify learning. Trainers can also use their body language and gestures to capture the attention of the employees.

Gauging and understanding are easier for trainers

On-site training gives employees a better opportunity to clarify any questions or confusion they may have. It is more difficult to get the trainer’s attention in an online training situation. Body language can be helpful when teaching something new. Also, during team building exercises the trainer can walk around the room, engage and observe whether or not the employees are grasping the content. With an active audience, Q&A sessions will be more dynamic. The audience can also feed off the energy in the room. In contrast, during an online Q&A, the trainers may never see the faces of the employees because they are using the hand raise signals on their computer.

Ensures data security

On-site training sessions allow for any sensitive or confidential organization data to be shared with very little risk. It is better when data is shared within the company and on a secure corporate network. Major data risks can be eliminated. This will protect both the organization and its employees. During a virtual training session employees are using their own network or possibly a network in a more public place. This can increase their risk of exposure to being cyber-attacked.

Off-site Training

Off-site training is an education method in which employees learn about their job, advancements, and their field away from their place of business. Unlike on-site training, off-site training can happen near the workplace or further away like a convention center. Just like on-site training, off-site training has many advantages.

Decreased employee turnover

Off-site employee training gives you a chance to learn more about and develop new skills in your field. Also, through the training, you can become more advanced in the skills pertaining to your job. Because of this, employers may find less of a need to replace their less knowledgeable staff since they are teaching them everything they need to know to do their job well.

Fewer distractions

You will have fewer distractions when you’re training away from the workplace. With fewer distractions and interruptions, employees can focus more on what they are learning. This will be more beneficial for them in the long run.

Feeling valued

Employers should want their employees to be successful. Providing training demonstrates to their employees that they care and value them. As an employee, this can increase your job satisfaction. It will also motivate you to be your best and loyal to the company you are working for.

Opportunity to learn from others

Training allows you to learn from others’ experiences. This can give you helpful tips you may not have previously considered as a part of your job. Also, off-site training gives you the opportunity to talk with others and experts in your field that you may not otherwise interact with. Getting expert advice and learning from them will make you feel more equipped to do your job.

Feeling confident

The more you know the more confident you’ll be in your job. You will feel more prepared. Job training will also increase motivation and productivity. Good off-site job training will prepare you to help and teach others how to do the job well.

Finally, as a company, you’ll need to decide the best method to use to train your employees. Always weigh the pros and cons of on-site and off-site training. Building a solid team will help your business run smoothly. Enjoy watching your business expand and be at its best.