Turmoil of pandemic is an opportunity to embrace learning

Learning and development for staff is something that may have taken a backseat for a lot of employers during the turmoil of the pandemic.

However, the difficult times we are facing are an opportunity to embrace learning and development within the workplace.

The nature of the impact of Covid-19 will depend on the type of business–some employers are having to make difficult decisions about their workforces while others are having to rapidly recruit.

However, what many have in common is a need to change and adapt. In these circumstances, learning and development will likely be important to this.

A tailored development strategy should assist in a number of ways.

First, it should improve job satisfaction by ensuring employees have the right skills and tools to carry out their roles, which may have changed, effectively.

Secondly, it should also motivate and assist staff to reach their potential.

Finally, it should increase efficiencies in processes and ability to adapt to new technologies and ways of working.

Employers may also need to talk to their staff about doing different types of work or responsibilities as a result of a reduction in the workforce or a change in direction for the business.

A structured training plan should assist employees to feel supported and in doing so will help the employer ensure staff can get up to speed as soon as possible.

A learning and development plan can also support new employees to settle quickly into their role.

Regular re views of learning and training needs throughout employment is also an opportunity to identify skills gaps early on so that they can be addressed as well as spotting potential development and promotion opportunities.

Employers can promote a development mind set within their businesses by meeting employees regularly to discuss their strengths , areas of improvement and career aspirations.

Employees should also be engaged in identifying improvements and opportunities so they share the responsibility for success.

Flexible learning opportunities should also be provided to ensure all employees have the opportunity to develop, while using technology can be used to share knowledge and experience.

Cross-skilling and upskilling staff can also minimise vulnerabilities arising from absences and to imp rove understanding of roles across the business.

■ Amy Jones.