HR Training & Development Methods

by Tara Duggan

Employees must have the right skills, knowledge and experience to function productively. That's where a human resources department comes in, providing development opportunities to the workforce. They use a variety of formats and methods to suit various learning styles. This strategy allows the HR department to encourage employees to get 70 percent of their career development through on-the-job experience, 20 percent through business relationships and 10 percent through formal education. Training professionals use a variety of tools and technology to develop training solutions. They assess, design, develop, deliver and evaluate courses to meet these needs.


Traditional classroom training allows instructors to interact with participants. Instructors offer lectures, followed by drill-and-practice exercises, to achieve the course’s learning objectives. This method works best for developing professional skills, such as communication, negotiation, influencing and decision-making. Role-playing exercises help participants practice new techniques. A classroom setting also permits participants to learn from each other. Many people prefer instructor-led training, because they get away from their office and the at-work distractions.


When employees work at different locations, conducting a face-to-face training session tends to be costly. Using web-based conferencing software to conduct training sessions can save a small business quite a bit of money. Employees do not incur travel costs or spend money on hotels. Web-based conferencing systems usually allow the instructor to show a presentation, ask survey questions and draw explanatory diagrams. When participants use webcams, they can see other participants. This enhances the learning experience.


Self-paced alternatives provide development opportunities at all times. Simulations, demonstrations and graphics depict complex subjects. This method offers consistent instruction to a potentially large number of people at a relatively low cost. Exercises, such as multiple-choice, matching, true or false and fill-in-the-blank questions, allow participants to demonstrate skills and knowledge. Additionally, virtual training can be recorded. Then, it can be accessed online, as well. Web-based training can also be translated into multiple languages. This allows the HR department to support a diverse workforce.


Coaching and mentoring occur on the job. This allows experienced personnel to provide guidance to less-experienced workers when they need it. The method allows an individual to tailor coaching sessions to his personal needs. These might include preparation for a new role, remediation or awareness of procedural changes. A coach typically helps an employee assess his skills. Then, they create an action plan together. They establish goals. After a few months, they get together and assess progress.

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