Dive Brief:
- Over half (58%) of retailers offer on-demand training to their employees, but half of that contingent admit they need improvement, according to a new white paper from retail management consulting firm BPR.
- "Lifecycle Learning Technology – The Convergence of Mobility, Rich Content, and Advanced Distribution for Next-Generation Training Platforms in Retail, Restaurants & Hospitality" details the efforts that employers are making to improve employee training.
- Scott Langdoc, vice president and practice lead at BRP, said in a statement that frontline employees are the best hope for future brand success in these industries.
Dive Insight:
It's been a struggle for many companies in the consumer markets of retail, hospitality and restaurants to recruit and retain enough workers. Increasing demand for labor combined with a shrinking pool of experienced help in these areas has made it tougher on employers.
Training needs a serious update, as evidenced by the above report. But, how can employers ensure that their workforce is getting adequate training when the typical worker puts in long hours, works odd shifts and deals with the demands of consumers?
On-demand learning, delivered using mobile technology and other modern platforms, may be the answer. Additionally, employers can look to traditional cross-training and mentoring to ensure that employees understand their roles and the company culture better, making for a more engaged and skilled workforce.
