8 Tips For Smooth Staff Training in Hospitality
In the dynamic landscape of hospitality, staff training is not just a nice to have, but a necessity.
It's an investment in the future of your organisation and your people.
86% of HR managers believe training aids in retention (1) so we’re providing you with 8 tips to ensure your staff training experience runs smoothly:
1. Set Clear Objectives: Begin with a clear understanding of what you want to achieve through training your staff. Define specific learning objectives and goals with each staff member, this is to understand their career goals and help you pick the best training path or course. Remember, setting the objects is just the start, make sure to allow the team member the time and help to hit those goals! Consider using the S.M.A.R.T method.
2. Consider tailored Apprenticeship Programs: Each team member is unique, and so should their training. One highly effective training method is undertaking an apprenticeship. These hands-on training programs not only equip your staff with the skills they need but also foster a culture of continuous learning. Umbrella Training can create apprenticeship programs that cater to the individual strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations of your staff and business within the scope of the apprenticeship standards.
3. Experienced Mentors: Furthering on from point 2, it is crucial to choose experienced mentors to train your staff. Umbrella Training's passionate and hospitality-focused mentors provide not only guidance but also share industry insights and up-to-date knowledge so that your staff can stay on top of trends that they can use at work.
4. A continuous Feedback Loop: Establish a robust feedback system. Whether you choose to train your staff through apprenticeships or a short course, we advise you to hold regular check-ins with your team and follow their progress. This communication can be used to address concerns and celebrate successes which makes your team feel valued and lets them know you're interested in their future.
5. Practical Application: Learning by doing is often the most effective method. Make sure any training you invest in incorporates practical, hands-on experiences – apprenticeships are a brilliant way to do this. Real-world scenarios enhance skill development and reinforce theoretical knowledge. We all know how sitting at a desk or computer all day makes the time go slower!
6. Technology Integration: Embrace technology to enhance the learning experience. When choosing your learning provider look for businesses that are actively seeking new ways to teach. Virtual simulations, e-learning modules, and interactive platforms can supplement traditional training methods, making the process more engaging and accessible. Check out our work with Metaverse!
7. Inclusive Learning Environment: Foster an inclusive culture within the workplace. Encourage collaboration, diversity, and open-mindedness. A supportive environment makes staff and apprentices feel comfortable taking risks and learning from their experiences.
8. Flexibility: Recognise that learning doesn't follow a strict schedule. Allow flexibility in any learning program to accommodate the varying learning paces of individuals. Most apprenticeships have a minimum 12 months of learning. Make sure you allow time for an apprentice to study and have their Off-the-job hours and classroom learning sessions. This flexibility can lead to a more adaptive and resilient workforce in the long run.
A well-structured apprenticeship program is a powerful tool for nurturing talent within your hotel, restaurant, bar, resort, café, you name it! By following these tips, you can create a training environment that not only imparts valuable skills but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring the success and sustainability of your business in the long run.
If you’re inspired to invest in your people with an apprenticeship, or you’d like to learn more, give us a call at 0333 577 2557 or email us at info@umbrellatraining.co.uk.
