So many of today’s businesses are looking to marketing as a means of growing their business that they’ve actually lost sight of something much more fundamental that is preventing the growth they are after. Too many companies seem to have forgotten that their number one resource is the people who make the company what it is, the employees. This is why more businesses should be funding continuing education as a means to build on that resource. Here are three ways that providing ongoing education for your employees can help your business grow.
1. Knowledge Improves Productivity on the Job
From a pure business perspective, it makes good sense to offer continuing education courses for your employees because of the overall improvements you will see in day to day operations. By offering employees the opportunity to advance their careers they are also learning newer and better ways of doing things instead of being stuck in the same old rut day after day.
One example would be in learning new techniques in waste reduction with Lean Six Sigma training online. This particular course not only gives your employees the opportunity to advance from White Belt to Black Belt certification for personal advancement but is also reflected in the work they do and the money they save for your company. It’s a win – win situation where both the company and the individual advances from increased knowledge put to use in practical applications.
2. Empowers Employees
An empowered employee is proven to perform better on the job. There is something to be said for the psychology of empowerment and by providing a means to grow you are enabling your staff to feel good about themselves on a personal level as they continue growing in knowledge and experience. Looking for staff retention? Empowering your employees to be all that they can be is the best way to keep staff loyal and on the job.
3. Attracts Top Talent
If you are looking to attract the top talent in your industry, then you can be sure offering opportunities in education is a solid draw. Offer funding for continuing or advanced education as part of your benefits program and see how quickly talented young individuals begin submitting resumes. Top performers are always looking to advance on a personal as well as on a business level so by providing a means to further their careers you are offering them the chance to climb as high as their ambition will take them. That’s a surefire attraction for talented young professionals.
Although companies have offered to finance or partially subsidize continuing education for employees, many aren’t quite sure exactly how important this is. If you have yet to work out a budget to fund educational opportunities for your employees, now is the time to do so. All the leading corporations are doing so and if you want to stay competitive, it’s time to join their ranks. Looking to grow your business beyond all expectations? Give your employees the opportunity to help you expand. Fund their continuing education and watch the returns. It’s amazing what a little investment in education can do!
