In-house training can save money

Feb 22 2010 by Chris Hetherington , The Journal

AS the country begins to emerge from recession, businesses should now be exploring ways to capitalise on the opportunities that will arise when the upturn arrives.

Training and skills development is an effective way of unlocking the potential within your organisation and motivating staff. People development can deliver real, tangible benefits for businesses seeking a cost effective way of improving their performance.

However, while there may have been small signs of economic recovery, it remains absolutely crucial that leaders make a shrewd assessment of every outgoing cost.

Many businesses choose to train employees in-house, which, as well as often being cheaper than external courses, can offer a number of advantages. In-house training is tailored to your specific business' needs and can be scheduled for a time that suits your business. All of this means it can be more time effective, as employees do not spend additional time or money travelling.

You need to ensure you have the appropriate expertise and resources in-house to effectively implement your training programme. If you are using internal trainers, you should also consider sending them on a course to ensure their methods and materials are up to date and effective.

If you are seeking basic training courses for your staff, it is always worth checking the Business Link events programme, which quite often includes a number of specific workshops and seminars that will give your team a basic understanding on a wide range of topics. You can find out more by visiting www.eventsnortheast.co.uk

Generally, there are tailor-made courses covering a wide range of topics and you should be able to find one that meets your needs. They can be targeted, confidential and cost a fraction of the price of sending each employee on an external scheme.

Typically you can choose whether you want to use an internal or external trainer to run the course.

Business Link has a team of expert advisers who can offer advice to individuals and companies looking for ways to deliver cost-effective training.

:: For further information visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/northeast  or call 0845 600 9 006.

Chris Hetherington of Business Link