Have you ever heard the phrase “upskilling”? A common concept in the working environment, upskilling is a (somewhat jargon-y) reference to training team members to master new skills and knowledge in the workplace. While it’s obvious that the employee him or herself has a lot to gain from that widened skillset, the practice carries big benefits for companies, as well. Here are a few examples.
Upskilling Creates Content, Capable Employees
Although there’s something to be said for feeling sure in one’s work, a bit of challenge is always a good thing. By encouraging team members to take on tasks they might not have attempted in the past, you’re keeping things fresh and new for them — and helping to keep complacency at bay. (After all, even the strongest team members can become bored when carrying out the same work day in and day out.) As an added benefit, when that newly tackled task is successfully over and done with, they’re likely to feel a sense of accomplishment. Be sure to recognize team members for substantial “wins,” be it through a regular internal newsletter, a shoutout over email, printed certificate — or whatever makes sense for the situation. Everyone enjoys a bit of recognition, and it’s likely to help them continue the trend.
Upskilling Helps a Company Run More Efficiently
It might go without saying that having more capable team members makes for a more capable company, but we’re going to say it anyway. When employees have even a general knowledge of some of the tasks that lie outside their traditional work, it helps everything run more smoothly. They’re more likely to have answers to client questions, for instance, which instills confidence in the client that they’re working with a knowledgeable bunch. There are tangible benefits, too. That added ability means folks on the team will be able to take care of minor tasks when others are in meetings, on sick leave or taking vacation. In other words, fewer delays — and a more streamlined day-to-day.
Upskilling Prepares Your Company for the Future
Upskilling provides a great opportunity to pave the way for coming company growth. If you have a general understanding of where you’d like the business to be in the next year or two, why not begin targeted training and discussions now? For instance, if your plan is to move more business to your website, maybe it’s time to start teaching team members how to make changes such as text updates, resource uploads and blog postings. If your aim is to begin providing service to folks in a yet-untapped industry, now is the time to get the appropriate team members educated regarding the right approach, specified industry knowledge and skillsets that will help make such efforts a success.
Interested in learning more? Our HR Insights Upskilling Sheet offers all sorts of other great information regarding benefits the practice offers — and ways you can incorporate upskilling into your work. Click to learn more, and feel free to contact us with any questions.