July 22, 2024
Technological advances, shifting economic landscapes, and changing consumer behaviours are constantly reshaping how businesses operate and how employees engage with the company. For HR managers and small business owners, this means one thing – upskilling and reskilling the workforce is no longer optional but essential if you want to boost employee engagement and create an efficient workforce.
In this blog post, we'll explore why these concepts are so vital to your employee engagement strategy, how they impact employees, and practical strategies to implement them effectively.
Understanding Upskilling and Reskilling
What is Upskilling?
Upskilling refers to the process of teaching employees new skills or improving their current skills to keep them up-to-date with industry standards. This is particularly important in roles where technology and processes are continually evolving. For instance, a marketing manager learning about the latest digital marketing tools is upskilling.
Not only can upskilling help with employee engagement by helping employees feel valued, it can help with organizational success by retaining top talent and staying ahead of competitors.
What is Reskilling?
Reskilling, on the other hand, involves training employees to take on entirely new roles within the organisation. This often happens when certain job functions become obsolete due to technological advancements. An example could be a factory worker learning coding skills to transition into a software development role.
Although providing the same benefits as upskilling employees, reskilling also offers personal development opportunities to employees, whilst allowing organisations' to stay up to date with evolving technology and bridging the digital skills gap.
Why the Difference Matters
Understanding the distinction between upskilling and reskilling is crucial for HR managers and small business owners. Upskilling employees keeps your current talent pool sharp and efficient, whereas reskilling prepares your workforce for roles that may not even exist yet. Both strategies are integral for maintaining a competitive edge in today's market.
Both of which are important to drive and improve employee engagement throughout your organisation.
The Impact of Upskilling and Reskilling on the Workforce
According to a report by the World Economic Forum, by 2025, 50% of all employees will need reskilling due to adopting new technologies. Furthermore, companies that invest in upskilling their workforce see a 25% increase in productivity. These statistics underscore the importance of engaged employees to drive continuous learning for business success
Employees who feel that their company invests in their professional development are more likely to be engaged and satisfied with their jobs. This leads to higher retention rates and a more motivated workforce. It's a win-win situation for both employers and employees.
Strategies for Successful Upskilling and Reskilling
Identify Skill Gaps
The first step in any successful employee upskilling or reskilling programme is identifying the skills gap within your organisation. Conduct regular assessments and gather employee feedback to understand where improvements are needed.
In order to understand the needs of the employees, implementing regular employee engagement surveys will allow company's to identify the main pain points from their employees, whilst allowing employees to anonymously share their thoughts and feelings. By asking employees first-hand about training opportunities will drive employee engagement as workforces will feel as though their voice is heard.
Tailor Programmes and Monitor Progress
Once you've identified the skills gap, tailor your training initiatives to address these specific needs. Offer a mix of online courses, workshops, and hands-on training to cater to different learning styles.
Monitor the progress of your training programmes regularly to ensure they're meeting your objectives. Use metrics such as productivity levels, employee feedback, and completion rates to gauge employee effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. It's also important to understand if the training is helping to increase job satisfaction through regular feedback sessions.
The Role of Technology in Facilitating Learning
E-Learning Platforms
E-learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning have revolutionised how employees can access training. These platforms offer many courses employees can take at their own pace, making learning more flexible and accessible.
Giving employees access to e-learning platforms is a great employee benefit for engagement and retention.
AI and Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning can further personalise the learning experience. These technologies can analyse an employee's current skill set and recommend courses that align with their career goals, ensuring that the training is relevant and impactful.
Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality (VR) is another exciting tool that can be used for training, particularly in fields that require hands-on experience. For example, a mechanic can use VR to practice repairing an engine without the need for physical resources.
Employee Recognition Platforms
Using an employee recognition platform such as Terryberry's Be Engaged Platform is a great way to monitor progress and offer incentives and rewards for your employees as they achieve their upskilling and reskilling goals.
There are multiple ways you can use employee engagement tools to help with upskilling. Recognition tools to help encourage and celebrate people's achievements or a benefits hub that can host access to your e-learning management system.
Creating a Culture of Lifelong Learning in the Workplace
Organisational Support
Upskilling and reskilling programmes need the organisation’s full support to be successful and are an important element to employee engagement strategies. This means allocating the necessary resources to these initiatives, including time and money. Leaders should also actively participate in continuous learning to set an example for their teams.
Employees need to understand the benefits of continuous learning for their careers. Communicate how these programs can lead to career advancement, higher salaries, and job security. Encourage a growth mindset and celebrate learning achievements within the organisation.
Integrating Learning into Daily Activities
Make learning a part of your company's daily activities. This can be as simple as having regular "lunch and learn" sessions or setting aside specific times for training. The goal is to make continuous learning a natural part of the work culture, which can help with employee engagement.
How do I implement this in my business?
The future of work is undeniably tied to the concepts of upskilling and reskilling. For HR managers and business owners, investing in these programs is not just a growth strategy but a necessity for setting your business apart in an increasingly competitive market. You can build a more resilient, adaptable and happier workforce by understanding the importance of continuous learning and implementing effective strategies.
Challenges in Implementing Upskilling and Reskilling Programmes
Financial Constraints
One of the most significant challenges in implementing these programmes is the financial investment required. External training courses can be costly, and small businesses may need help finding the budget for comprehensive upskilling or reskilling initiatives.
However, there are a number of ways you can do this cost effectively in-house by creating your own tailored or mentorship programme that can help with employee training.
Time Management
Another hurdle is the time commitment needed from both employees and employers. Finding the balance between regular job duties and training can be challenging. However, viewing this as an investment rather than a cost is essential.
If company's want to succeed they'll realise that investing in personal development opportunities for employees will create a happier workplace culture.
Employee Engagement
Getting employees to buy into the idea of continuous learning can also be challenging. Some may resist change or feel overwhelmed by the prospect of learning new skills. Effective communication and creating a supportive learning environment are crucial to overcoming this barrier, as is offering regular recognition and rewards.
Ensuring that employees feel recognised and rewarded may feel like a lot of admin but utilising an automated awards platform can make streamline the process when looking at how to celebrate employees who are going through training.
Ready to take the next step? Start building a future-ready workforce today. Explore more about TerryBerry's recognition solutions here.