Maximizing the Effectiveness of On-the-Job Training

With over fifty years of experience across various industries, I have had the opportunity to engage in and supervise on-the-job training (OJT). This experience has left me with a deep understanding of what it takes to make OJT as effective as possible, and to keep trainees engaged and motivated throughout the process.

Hands-on Experience

During my time as a copywriter, I developed and deployed a specialized copywriting course at a Jesuit college and an advertising agency. I also informally trained new graduates at my creative agency, Purple Patch. These experiences have solidified my belief that OJT is an essential component of career development and can be highly effective with the right approach.

Managing Commissions Administration

In my capacity as an emergency commissions analyst, I have had to take over the role during times of need for different companies, setting up OJT for new analysts. Each company handles commissions differently, so I often have to adapt my training methods to fit the specific needs of the organization. This has included writing user manuals for systems like Epicor, White Hat Security, Paypal, Infoblox, and Fortinet. Lately, I have created an Xactly Learning Tracker at Zoom, which, although not widely seen, has been a significant source of pride for me.

Engagement and Motivation in Training

My heart always lies in making the training process effective, which means prioritizing the success of the person being trained. True engagement and motivation during training sessions come from a genuine care for the trainee and a focus on their growth. Here are some key ideas that help keep trainees engaged and motivated:

Evaluate and address the trainee’s interest and needs to ensure the training resonates with them. Create a structured plan with learning objectives, milestones, and assessments to measure progress. Secure active supervision and mentorship from experienced managers or supervisors. Provide practical, hands-on experience that directly correlates with the task at hand. Ensure that the training is relevant and applicable to the trainee's role within the organization.

Structure and Supervision

Effective OJT should never be left to chance. It requires a well-structured plan and the right level of supervision:

1. Structured Approach: Just like classroom or online training, OJT should be well-structured with clear learning objectives. It should also be tailored to the actual work environment rather than just a theoretical setting.

2. Milestones and Assessments: Incorporate regular milestones and assessments to measure success and ensure the trainee is on track.

3. Managerial Supervision: The manager or supervisor should be trained to use OJT effectively and provide consistent support, feedback, and guidance to the trainee.

By adhering to these principles, OJT can become a powerful tool for career development and can significantly enhance the training experience, leading to more effective and motivated trainees.