Training is crucial in the construction industry, so an instructor must be able to teach the material while also creating an environment conducive to learning.
ConstructioNext offers the following three ways instructors can effectively train new employees.
- Strike a balance. Instructors must find balance between showcasing their expertise and remaining neutral. They should set aside personal preferences or habits and follow the company’s and industry’s training guidelines to ensure real-world application and skills retention.
- Use your soft skills. Aside from being able to grasp and teach the subject matter, an instructor should demonstrate enthusiasm, patience, empathy and good communication skills so employees feel encouraged, valued and understood. A study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health identified qualities such as empathy and mental alertness as essential traits for trainers in high-risk environments.
- Consider your audience. Instructors cannot be effective if they do not understand who their trainees are. They must be ready to adapt to different cultural, linguistic and generational needs to maximize engagement and retention. For example, younger generations may prefer digital, interactive learning platforms while other employees may prefer traditional, in-person formats.
