What is On-Job Training?

On-job training refers to the technique of imparting industry-related training to employees. Skills acquired during training enable employees to perform their jobs effectively. In addition, these skills help workers familiarise themselves with the working environment of the organization. Employers impart standalone, structured, unstructured, or blended training to their operative staff. While imparting training, companies deploy several methods such as coaching, job rotation, transfers, promotions, internship and apprenticeship, etc. Skills acquired through training are beneficial for both employees and employers, as the former get paid for learning and the latter get an efficient workforce for a longer period of time. 

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What is On-Job Training?

On-job training (OJT) refers to a method of training employees where they learn the necessary skills, knowledge, and competencies while performing their actual job tasks. This type of training takes place within the work environment, allowing employees to gain practical experience and familiarity with their roles. OJT often involves a combination of hands-on instruction, guidance from experienced colleagues or supervisors, and opportunities to apply what has been learned in real work situations. It is an effective way to enhance job performance and can be tailored to specific job requirements and company needs.

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Types of On-Job Training

There are several types of OJT, each designed to address specific learning needs and objectives. 

Standalone Training

For certain jobs, getting hands-on experience and job shadowing are sufficient ways to learn the fundamentals. Companies adopt the stand-alone approach for straightforward tasks or when an applicant has prior work experience.

Blended Training

OJT is combined with various forms of training in blended learning. The new hire participates in online courses, classroom learning, industry training events, reading job-related literature, watching films, and shadowing in addition to getting hands-on experience. Blended learning includes a variety of training approaches and is therefore effective for jobs requiring complicated tasks or specific abilities. This kind of training is perfect for businesses where staff must master certain processes and procedures.

Structured Training

The company creates a thorough training schedule for the new hire in structured on-job training. This plan includes a checklist of activities, information about the task supervisors, and the intended learning outcomes. A contract may need to be signed by the employee in order for some OJT programs to be completed. Thus, structured OJT takes more work and time to establish but is frequently more successful in preparing new workers for their positions. Additionally, it increases both trainers’ and trainees’ accountability.

Unstructured Training

In unstructured OJT, you spend a set amount of time watching a senior execute their duties. You can observe a single person or a group of employees to pick up knowledge and skills that are necessary for the position. Unstructured OJT is perfect for jobs that don’t require complex duties or specialised skills. With this approach, you can easily tailor the learning to your role and your current knowledge and skills. Planning time is not necessary.

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On-Job Training Methods

There are several methods of training employees onsite. For example, apprenticeship, internship, delegation of work, mentorship, etc. These methods can be employed to impart technical skills to workers effectively and efficiently.

Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are formal training programs that combine on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. They are common in industries like skilled trades, where hands-on experience is crucial. Apprenticeships provide a structured learning path, ensuring that apprentices acquire the specific skills and knowledge required for their trade.

Internship

 Internships are short-term positions where individuals, often students, work within a company to gain practical experience in a specific field. They may or may not be paid. Internships offer exposure to real-world work environments, helping individuals apply theoretical knowledge and explore career options.

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Work Delegation

The term “on-job training method” refers to a methodical assignment of duties to a group of workers. A manager is in charge of overseeing the entire business. 

Mentorship

In mentorship, a more experienced employee (mentor) guides and instructs a less experienced employee (mentee) in performing their job tasks. The mentor provides continuous feedback, shares insights, and helps the mentee develop necessary skills.

Also Read: Why do You Need a Mentor? Importance and Reason

Promotions and Transfers

Promotions involve changing a job profile and rising in the organizational structure. Transfers, in contrast, deal with an employee’s capacity to apply newly acquired skills to their tasks at work.  

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Advantages on On-Job-Training

On-job training is beneficial for both the employee and the employer. Here’s how it benefits each:

Benefits for Employees

Employees can benefit from different types of on-job training in the following ways:

• Teambuilding: New hires can connect closely with their peers and supervisors right away thanks to OJT. As a result, they will be able to comprehend their coworkers more and develop teamwork skills. OJT may foster a sense of camaraderie and contagious enthusiasm in a company in this way.
• Free of-cost training: Furthermore, employers can pay trainees/staff for this training duration, which is an added benefit for the latter. 
• Skill development: Also, on-site instruction and learning are likely to be dynamic and interesting for new employees. Owing to this they are more motivated to acquire the abilities and skills necessary for the position.
• Increased job satisfaction: Moreover, OJT enables enhanced job performance and ameliorates job satisfaction. Owing to this, employees become more confident and competent in their work.

Also Read: Importance of Teamwork and Leadership in an Organisation

Benefits for Employer

In addition, on-the-job training has numerous benefits for companies as well. These advantages are as follows:

• Cost-effective: Because OJT enables employees to learn from their managers and coworkers, organizations do not need to spend money on pricey training sessions or conferences. Additionally, current employees can hone their skills and use the tasks they perform on a regular basis to help new hires contribute to the objectives of the organization.
• Collaborative learning: Also, OJT speeds up learning and reduces the likelihood that learners may need correction after their training is finished. By thoroughly learning the precise norms and requirements for their work, individuals can avoid forming assumptions about typical industry practices and procedures.
• Increased employee retention: Further, OJT gives workers the training they need to complete their jobs with competence. They may be more satisfied with their jobs as a result, which increases the likelihood that they will work for the organization for a long time.

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