Mar 19, 2015 | Blog

Multigenerational Training that Sticks

Develop Your Workforce

Right now, four distinct generations are working side by side. According to the AARP report, today’s new workplace resembles a generational “melting pot.” Traditionalists’ days in the workplace are numbered, however, and Baby Boomers will remain in leadership positions for the next 10 to 20 years.

But when those who are postponing retirement right now—largely for financial reasons—exit the workforce, organizations will count on Gen Xers and Millennials to step forward and lead. Will they be prepared when that time comes?

One common thread tying all four generations together is their expectations of their employers. Their biggest expectation is opportunities for advancement and chances to learn and grow in their jobs. Research will confirm that one of the best ways of keeping employees—and keeping them engaged—is to offer them training and career development. For learning professionals, especially those responsible for human capital, the bigger challenge is developing learning strategies that meet the diverse learning styles and technology preferences of today’s multigenerational workforce.

Blended learning + discovery learning = learning that sticks

Blended learning encompasses:

  • Variety of instructional methods (lecture, discussion, guided practice, reading, games, case study, simulation)
  • Uses different delivery platforms (live classroom and/or computer or digital-based)
  • Accommodates synchronous or asynchronous forms of learning
  • Integrates different levels of guidance (individual, instructor or expert led, group/social learning)

Discovery learning:

These are situations where the learner can explore new ideas, exercise new thinking, demonstrate new behaviors, and solve new problems relevant to their positions and the work they do.

By combining these two, HR Professionals are able to look beyond traditional training to find flexible, differentiated, innovative, and experiential development that resonates with all ages.

Businesses that want to dominate must learn the rules of engagement and what each generation wants and needs to be successful. Provide innovative training that diverse learners demand—involving, interactive, competitive learning that educates and keeps learners engaged and excited about their work and their part in the company’s success.

 

For more on how to begin to close the training gap and prepare these up-and-comers, read our EGUIDE: Spanning the Generational Training Gap.