Rule 1: Provide regular training for your staff

Training and developing a workforce allows a business to get more out of its employees, and in the aftermath of COVID-19 this will be even more important. Not only will businesses have to champion efficiency and productivity as part of their recovery, but their workforces will need to be prepared for the challenges this new normal will bring.

However, as with any expense, it’s important to understand if a specific training course is right for your staff or your business. Training for training’s sake is not the aim and the right programme can help empower a business on a wider level. For instance, if better financial knowledge was extended beyond the management team in a small business, employees would have a better understanding of cost-effective productivity and how their own output impacts this. Fortunately, there are now more ways of accessing training online, making this a lot easier from a logistical angle.

Some business owners have told us they worry about investing in training for employees, only to see them leave once they’ve received it. However, we see this as an outdated concept. Besides, high-quality training and development can actually lead to stronger employee retention by boosting morale and inspiring motivation in a way that salaries don’t.