Last week I looked at the recruitment stage of the employee development process. The next step is to train the employee in the products, services, systems and culture of the organisation.

This can be conducted by both external and internal sources. An initial induction program is a useful start to give the employee a basic grounding in their new role. This should consist of a formal program consisting of both theory and practical training.
Next, assign a mentor to provide ongoing advice and tips. This should be someone who is a high performer and represents the standards the company wishes to instill in all staff.
Finally, ongoing training both formal and informal should be given throughout an employee's career. Formal training every three to four months and informal as and when needed.
No matter who provides the training, they must be consistent and always convey the corporate culture that management has set.

Next week: Pay-for-Performance