When it comes to upskilling and reskilling your workforce, the multitude of benefits heavily outweigh any negatives. But it is important to remember that upskilling and reskilling is a business investment. Keeping the business’s goals front and center throughout the process will better help you highlight what changes are needed in order to achieve those goals.
The workforce is increasingly digital, and it is crucial to adapt and grow with these changes. The World Economic Forum predicts that over 50% of all employees globally will need upskilling or reskilling by 2025 in order to fill any skill gaps. Providing learning and mentorship opportunities for employees can help streamline internal growth and boost retention. Above all, upskilling and reskilling your workforce ultimately benefits the employees and business alike.
Step #1 – Think back to your company’s goals and what skills are needed to reach them.
Upskilling and reskilling your workforce should leave a positive impact on your company. If you want measurable outcomes and better overall performance, then it is imperative to take the initiative to identify what skills are needed to fill the gaps to achieve that.
Investing time and effort into reskilling and upskilling shows commitment to both business goals and values as well as to the future and growth of your employees. Along with pinpointing your business goals, think of role-specific and personalized skills to implement into the process that can encourage employee development and contribute to the goals of the business. Further, constantly track the process of your program and get feedback from those involved. The upskilling and reskilling process should be monitored to correct any hazards and ensure efficiency for the sake of both the employees and the business.
Step #2 – Create an empowering and joyful learning environment to share knowledge and promote continuous growth.
Whether in-person or remote, everyone learns differently. When it comes to building upon or learning new skills, your employees should be curious and eager to expand their skillsets! Keeping up with relevant and timely trends is one of the most important aspects of development and growth. Micro-learning, specifically, is a must-have when it comes to upskilling and reskilling your workforce, as it allows for a self-paced and flexible learning experience. Whether it be through seminars/webinars, workshops, or online courses, provide your employees with some flexibility and positivity in their continued professional development to keep them engaged and curious.
Step #3 – Offer mentorships, sponsorships, and partnerships to provide unique insight for those involved.
Eliciting the help of others can be extremely valuable when upskilling and reskilling your workforce. Partnering entry-level employees with mid- to high-level employees, for example, can be an informal and hands-on route that fosters appreciation amongst coworkers. Sponsorships and partnerships can help cater and customize skills needed for each individual while also building a sense of loyalty and gratitude. Ultimately, mentorships, sponsorships, and partnerships encourage career growth and retention with the help of collaboration, recognition and awareness.
At the end of the day, upskilling and reskilling your workforce is essential to stay ahead of the competition. The process is no walk-in-the-park, but avoiding this opportunity risks your company’s reputation, goals, and overall relevance. To learn more about upskilling and reskilling or to see if our courses are right for you, contact us today.
