Every penny counts - how to invest your training budget well?
Don't limit spending - invest wisely
Contrary to appearances, it is not the biggest budgets that yield the best results, but those spent in a thoughtful and planned manner. Wise planning and a strategic approach to developing our team's competencies is fundamental. Instead of being guided by lower prices when looking for training, it is worth investing in those that have a real impact on the effectiveness of our employees - and which will allow the company to build a competitive advantage in the long term.
Business needs rather than fads
Approach trends with care and caution. First and foremost, let's focus on analysing the real needs of our organisation. Look for answers to the questions:
- Which of our team's competences are key to the implementation of the organisation's strategy?
- Which teams face the greatest challenges and what are those challenges?
- What digital tools and solutions does our team need and do they know how to use them efficiently?
The answers to these questions will help us to map the competences of our employees and tailor training solutions.
Measure, test, draw conclusions
Today's development approach should be based on data. Let's monitor the effectiveness of training. Let's test new development solutions. Let's not be afraid to experiment. Observing the results and drawing conclusions will allow us to make optimal use of the training budget.
Personalise rather than mass
Gone are the days of organising one course for all employees. Consider blended learning, microlearning or development paths tailored to the individual needs of team members. Such a model increases the involvement of participants and, as a result, allows us to use the budget more effectively.
Look for experienced training partners
When engaging with a training company, it is worth paying attention not only to the programme and price, but also to whether they understand the business context in which our company operates.
'At BPP, we focus on a smart approach to the development of our clients - our training programmes are designed to respond to the real and current challenges of managers and professionals, and not just to meet formal requirements' emphasises Kamila Izdebska, Head of BPP in Poland.
Certifications recognised around the world
Courses for professional qualifications, after which employee can acquires an internationally recognised certificate or diploma, are of particular value. Obtaining a certification such as ACCA, CGMA or CFA® is an opportunity for our employees to certify their qualifications on an international level, but also to take care of their personal brand, boost motivation for further development and, ultimately, promotion. Companies that enable their employees to gain international qualifications give them a clear signal that they are investing in their development in a thoughtful and long-term manner. In addition, such an approach fits perfectly with the company's Employer Branding strategy.
Finally, remember that every single zloty in the training budget matters - above all in the strategic dimension. Prudently planned investments in employee development can bring a very high return to the company - all it takes is the right choice of training, not forgetting to measure its effectiveness and inviting experienced training partners.
Artykuł opublikowany również na portalu focusonbusiness.eu.