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Providing staff with the opportunity to attend training sessions is an integral part of business growth as it encourages development, leading to innovation and increased efficiency. Those who are offered the chance to broaden their knowledge and build on their existing skillset feel valued by their organisation, improving levels of satisfaction at work.

Benefits of training

Employers that offer a structured training programme create a platform for business growth, to develop staff, aiding retention and creating a positive culture. For employees, it shows their organisation is invested in their career progression. When training recommences – and where that training takes place – has come under the microscope once more.

Warwick Conferences carried out a survey of HR, L&D and finance directors and found that 62% of respondents would prefer to host training externally. Those responsible for programmes (L&D Directors) were overwhelmingly in favour of hosting externally (78%). The global pandemic has created a dilemma for those looking to get the most out of their team: host training online or in person.

COVID-19 has highlighted the benefits of face-to-face meetings and coming together to interact with other professionals for training sessions is arguably more important than ever at a time when so many are working remotely. Activities like this increase creative thinking, collaboration and engagement. All of these benefits improve employee wellbeing as it helps them to feel better connected with others and gain energy from one another.

The importance of face-to-face interactions

Hosting training sessions face-to-face has an even greater impact on employee wellbeing, due to the unique advantages of physically attending an event.

Bringing employees together in the same space creates an energy that simply cannot be replicated on screen. Interpreting body language and being able to read the room more accurately means delegates can get a better feel for the atmosphere and gain more from the session.

Engaging teams in activities where debates can take place in person increases the value of the training itself, as members are able to get more involved and develop closer professional relationships. This connection with others adds variety and helps to make training more memorable. It also supports employees’ mental wellbeing as increased social interaction boosts morale.

Personalising events

Meeting up with colleagues in person has lots of benefits, however it’s essential to take into consideration each team member’s individual needs and circumstances when planning training sessions. Some individuals may be craving social interaction and will emotionally benefit from meeting in person, while others may prefer the option of joining online if travel, childcare or health concerns are an issue.

Providing employees with options allows them to choose the one that is most suitable for them. For example, while some colleagues may be keen to interact with each other in person, others may be happy to attend virtually. With Government guidelines regularly changing, having hybrid and virtual packages to turn to provides reassurance that no matter what is announced the training can definitely go ahead.

Final thoughts

Given the clear importance and benefits of employees attending face-to-face or even hybrid/virtual training sessions, it is essential that organisations continue to provide these opportunities. Don’t let the pandemic negatively impact employee development and wellbeing.

Warwick Conferences has an experienced team on hand to work with organisers to bring professionals together to boost engagement and collaboration through training sessions. Get in touch with our team to find out what would be best for your employees.