Many HR professionals struggle finding the right training programs for their employees.
Without good training, employees can feel bored, unmotivated, and stagnant in their career, which can affect the overall growth of the company.
In this guide, we share the top 21 types of training programs for employees, along with the benefits of each so that you can know which one you should start implementing right away.
Plus, we’ll also share some examples of how employee training programs are implemented in some of the top companies in the world to help you get more ideas.
So let’s get started!
Top 21 Types Of Employee Training Programs
1. Onboarding And Orientation Training
Onboarding and orientation training is designed to welcome new employees and help them adjust to their new work environment.
This type of training typically covers company policies, procedures, and culture. It also introduces new hires to their colleagues and provides an overview of their job responsibilities.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Duration | Typically 1-2 weeks, with ongoing check-ins |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or hybrid |
| Training Content | Company history, values, policies, benefits, organization chart, job duties |
| Tools | Employee handbook, LMS, onboarding software |
Training Benefits:
- Helps new employees feel welcomed and valued.
- Reduces anxiety and stress associated with starting a new job.
- Increases employee retention by setting clear expectations.
- Improves productivity by providing necessary information and resources.
2. Compliance Training
Compliance training ensures that employees understand and adhere to legal and regulatory requirements specific to their industry or job function.
This type of training covers topics such as workplace safety, data privacy, anti-harassment, and diversity.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Duration | Typically 1-2 weeks, with ongoing check-ins |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or hybrid |
| Training Content | Company history, values, policies, benefits, organization chart, job duties |
| Tools | Employee handbook, LMS, onboarding software |
Training Benefits:
- Protects the company from legal liabilities and penalties.
- Promotes a safe and respectful work environment.
- Enhances employee awareness of their rights and responsibilities.
- Demonstrates the company’s commitment to ethical and compliant practices.
3. Technical Skills Training
Technical skills training focuses on developing the specific skills and knowledge required to perform a particular job or use specific tools and software.
This type of training is essential for roles that require specialized expertise, such as IT, engineering, or finance.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | As needed, based on skill gaps and industry changes |
| Duration | Varies, from a few hours to several weeks |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or on-the-job |
| Training Content | Job-specific tools, software, processes, industry trends |
| Tools | Simulations, case studies, assessments, job aids |
Training Benefits:
- Improves job performance and productivity.
- Keeps employees up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies.
- Enhances problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills.
- Increases employee confidence and job satisfaction.
4. Soft Skills Training
Soft skills training helps employees develop interpersonal and communication skills, such as active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution.
These skills are essential for building positive relationships with colleagues, customers, and stakeholders.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Ongoing, with regular refreshers |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 hours per session |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or a blend |
| Training Content | Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership |
| Tools | Role-plays, case studies, 360-degree feedback, assessments |
Training Benefits:
- Enhances teamwork and collaboration.
- Improves customer service and client relations.
- Increases emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
- Promotes a positive and supportive work environment.
5. Product And Service Training
Product and service training educates employees about the company’s offerings, including features, benefits, and target customers.
This type of training is particularly important for sales, marketing, and customer service teams.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial Training and Ongoing updates |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 week for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or a blended |
| Training Content | Product or Service features, benefits, uses |
| Tools | Product demos, case studies, knowledge base |
Training Benefits:
- Increases product knowledge and expertise.
- Enhances sales performance and customer satisfaction.
- Helps employees effectively communicate the value of products or services.
- Promotes brand consistency and messaging.
Note: If you’re particularly looking for corporate training programs, then check out our detailed guide on different types of online corporate training programs.
6. Sales Training
Sales training focuses on developing the skills and techniques necessary to effectively sell products or services.
This type of training covers topics such as prospecting, objection handling, closing techniques, and customer relationship management.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing coaching |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 weeks for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Prospecting, objection handling, closing techniques, CRM |
| Tools | Sales playbooks, case studies, role-plays, CRM software |
Training Benefits:
- Increases revenue and profitability.
- Improves sales performance and productivity.
- Enhances customer engagement and loyalty.
- Boosts employee confidence and motivation.
7. Customer Service Training
Customer service training teaches employees how to effectively communicate with customers, handle complaints, and provide exceptional service.
This type of training is crucial for roles that involve direct customer interaction, such as call center agents or retail associates.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing refreshers |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 weeks for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Communication skills, complaint handling, product knowledge |
| Tools | Call scripts, case studies, role-plays, knowledge base |
Training Benefits:
- Improves customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Reduces customer complaints and churn.
- Enhances brand reputation and word-of-mouth referrals.
- Increases employee empathy and problem-solving skills.
8. Diversity And Inclusion Training
Diversity and inclusion training promotes a workplace culture that values and respects differences in race, ethnicity, gender, age, and other characteristics.
This type of training helps employees understand and appreciate the benefits of a diverse workforce.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing initiatives |
| Duration | Varies, typically 4-8 hours for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Bias awareness, cultural competency, inclusive communication |
| Tools | Case studies, group discussions, self-assessments, action planning |
Training Benefits:
- Creates a more inclusive and welcoming work environment.
- Reduces bias and discrimination.
- Enhances creativity and innovation through diverse perspectives.
- Attracts and retains top talent from diverse backgrounds.
9. Leadership And Management Training
Leadership and management training develops the skills and competencies necessary to effectively lead and manage teams.
This type of training covers topics such as communication, delegation, coaching, and performance management.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing development |
| Duration | Varies, typically 2-4 weeks for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Communication, delegation, coaching, performance management |
| Tools | Case studies, simulations, 360-degree feedback, individual development plans |
Training Benefits:
- Improves leadership effectiveness and decision-making.
- Enhances team performance and productivity.
- Increases employee engagement and motivation.
- Prepares employees for future leadership roles.
10. Communication Skills Training
Communication skills training helps employees effectively convey information, ideas, and feedback through various channels, such as verbal, written, and nonverbal communication.
This type of training is essential for roles that require frequent interaction with colleagues, customers, or stakeholders.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing practice |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 days for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Active listening, assertiveness, presenting, writing |
| Tools | Role-plays, case studies, writing samples, video recordings |
Training Benefits:
- Enhances clarity and understanding in the workplace.
- Reduces misunderstandings and conflicts.
- Improves collaboration and teamwork.
- Increases employee confidence and assertiveness.
11. Time Management And Productivity Training
Time management and productivity training teaches employees how to prioritize tasks, manage their time effectively, and minimize distractions.
This type of training is particularly useful for roles that require juggling multiple responsibilities and deadlines.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing support |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 days for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Goal-setting, prioritization, focus, workflow management |
| Tools | Productivity apps, time-tracking, task management software |
Training Benefits:
- Increases efficiency and productivity.
- Reduces stress and burnout.
- Improves work-life balance.
- Enhances project management and goal achievement.
12. Problem-Solving And Decision-Making Training
Problem-solving and decision-making training develops the critical thinking skills necessary to identify, analyze, and resolve complex issues.
This type of training is essential for roles that require creative solutions and sound decision making.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing practice |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 days for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Problem identification, root cause analysis, decision-making models |
| Tools | Case studies, brainstorming, decision matrices, simulations |
Training Benefits:
- Enhances analytical and strategic thinking abilities.
- Improves decision-making accuracy and speed.
- Increases adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges.
- Promotes a solution-oriented mindset.
13. Teamwork And Collaboration Training
Teamwork and collaboration training teaches employees how to work effectively with others, contribute to team goals, and resolve conflicts constructively.
This type of training is crucial for roles that involve cross-functional collaboration or project-based work.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing team-building |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 days for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Communication, trust, conflict resolution, diversity |
| Tools | Team-building activities, case studies, role-plays, assessments |
Training Benefits:
- Enhances team performance and productivity.
- Improves communication and trust among team members.
- Increases employee engagement and job satisfaction.
- Promotes a positive and supportive team culture.
14. Creativity And Innovation Training
Creativity and innovation training encourages employees to think outside the box, generate new ideas, and solve problems in unique ways.
This type of training is particularly valuable for roles that require innovation and continuous improvement.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing encouragement |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 days for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Brainstorming, lateral thinking, design thinking, innovation process |
| Tools | Ideation sessions, case studies, prototyping, innovation challenges |
Training Benefits:
- Stimulates creative thinking and problem-solving.
- Encourages experimentation and risk-taking.
- Increases competitiveness and market differentiation.
- Promotes a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
15. Emotional Intelligence Training
Emotional intelligence training helps employees develop self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills.
This type of training is essential for roles that require strong interpersonal relationships and leadership abilities.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing development |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 days for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, social skills |
| Tools | Assessments, case studies, role-plays, journaling |
Training Benefits:
- Improves communication and conflict resolution skills.
- Enhances leadership effectiveness and influence.
- Increases employee resilience and stress management.
- Promotes a positive and supportive work environment.
16. Health And Wellness Training
Health and wellness training educates employees about the importance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
This type of training may cover topics such as stress management, nutrition, exercise, and work-life balance.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Ongoing initiatives and challenges |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 hours per session |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Stress management, nutrition, exercise, mindfulness |
| Tools | Wellness apps, fitness trackers, workshops, challenges |
Training Benefits:
- Reduces healthcare costs and absenteeism.
- Improves employee productivity and engagement.
- Increases employee morale and job satisfaction.
- Demonstrates the company’s commitment to employee well-being.
17. Safety And Emergency Preparedness Training
Safety and emergency preparedness training teaches employees how to identify and respond to potential hazards, accidents, or emergencies in the workplace.
This type of training is crucial for industries with high safety risks, such as construction or manufacturing.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing refreshers |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 days for initial training |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Safety procedures, emergency response, first aid |
| Tools | Safety manuals, case studies, simulations |
Training Benefits:
- Protects employees from injuries and accidents.
- Reduces workers’ compensation claims and costs.
- Ensures compliance with safety regulations and standards.
- Promotes a culture of safety and responsibility.
18. Cross-Functional Training
Cross-functional training exposes employees to the roles and responsibilities of other departments or functions within the organization.
This type of training helps employees understand the bigger picture and how their work contributes to overall company goals.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Ongoing opportunities and initiatives |
| Duration | Varies, typically a few hours to a few weeks |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Job-specific skills, processes, challenges |
| Tools | Job shadowing, rotations, project collaborations, knowledge-sharing sessions |
Training Benefits:
- Enhances collaboration and communication across departments.
- Increases employee empathy and appreciation for other roles.
- Improves problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Prepares employees for potential career growth and advancement.
19. Mentorship And Coaching Programs
Mentorship and coaching programs pair experienced employees with newer or less experienced colleagues to provide guidance, support, and knowledge sharing.
These programs can be formal or informal and may focus on specific skills or career development.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Ongoing, typically 6-12 months per cycle |
| Duration | Varies, typically 1-2 hours per month |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Career development, skill-building, knowledge sharing |
| Tools | Mentoring meetings, goal-setting templates |
Training Benefits:
- Accelerates employee learning and development.
- Increases employee engagement and retention.
- Enhances leadership and coaching skills of mentors.
- Promotes a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing.
20. Career Development Training
Career development training helps employees identify their strengths, interests, and career goals, and provides guidance on how to achieve them.
This type of training includes workshops, assessments, or individual coaching sessions.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Ongoing, typically 1-2 times per year |
| Duration | Varies, typically a few hours to a few days |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Self-assessment, career planning, skill development |
| Tools | Career path templates, individual development plans, workshops, coaching |
Training Benefits:
- Increases employee motivation and job satisfaction.
- Improves talent retention and succession planning.
- Aligns employee goals with organizational objectives.
- Demonstrates the company’s investment in employee growth and development.
21. Industry-Specific Training
Industry-specific training focuses on the unique skills, knowledge, and regulations relevant to a particular industry or sector.
This type of training ensures that employees are equipped with the necessary expertise to succeed in their specific field.
| Components: | Overview: |
| Frequency | Initial training and ongoing updates |
| Duration | Varies, depending on the topic and depth |
| Training Format | In-person, online, or blended |
| Training Content | Industry trends, regulations, best practices, case studies |
| Tools | Industry publications, conferences, workshops, e-learning courses |
Training Benefits:
- Keeps employees up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.
- Enhances competitive advantage and market positioning.
- Ensures compliance with industry regulations and standards.
- Increases employee credibility and professionalism.
Need more help in implementing the right training programs for your employees? Connect with our industry leading HR experts at hrtech to get customized solutions for your unique challenges. Contact us now to learn more!
Examples Of Employee Training Programs
Cruise Automation – Internal Career Development
Cruise Automation knows that attracting and keeping top talent is essential to their success.
That’s why they’ve put a big focus on training and mentorship programs to help their employees grow and develop.
New hires are matched with experienced employees who can guide them and answer their questions.
Cruise Automation gives them tools to make these mentoring relationships really meaningful, like:
- Mentoring goals to keep things on track
- Guiding questions to spark important conversations
- To-do tasks to put learning into action
The goal is to have honest, impactful conversations about skills and career goals. And it’s working – these mentor-mentee matches have led to some big career moves for Cruise Automation employees.
Abbott Laboratories – Cultural Classes And Language Lessons
Abbott Laboratories knows that to succeed on a global scale, their employees need to understand and appreciate different cultures.
That’s why they offer some pretty unique training programs.
Cultural Navigator:
This online tool is like a cultural guidebook for over 100 countries. It covers things like:
- Business practices
- Management tools
- Social etiquette
- Cultural norms and customs
Employees can create a personal cultural profile and compare their business approach to others. The tool even offers suggestions for how to interact with people from different cultures.
Speak to the World:
Abbott also offers a language program called Speak to the World. Employees can learn or improve their skills in a new language, whether it’s for their job or just for fun.
This program is especially helpful for employees who are preparing for international assignments.
Abbott encourages their people to apply for roles in other countries, and over 150 employees are currently on short or long-term international assignments.
Infosys – Women’s Leadership Initiatives
Infosys is taking big strides when it comes to women’s leadership. In 2022, they partnered with Stanford Graduate School of Business for a year-long program focused on:
- Training women for leadership roles
- Strengthening the pipeline of female talent
- Creating a more inclusive culture
The program includes several initiatives:
- Accelerating Her Achievements
- Women in Executive Leadership
- Women in Technology Mentoring
And it’s working! Women’s leadership roles at Infosys grew from 23% to 28% in just one year.
With these types of leadership training programs for employees, they are helping women succeed and build a stronger, and more innovative company culture at the same time.
What is Employee Training?
Employee training is the process of teaching employees the skills, knowledge, and competencies they need to perform their jobs effectively.
It involves a wide range of activities designed to help employees learn and grow, from onboarding new hires to developing leadership skills in experienced team members.
Employee training is essential for businesses because it directly affects the success of the organization.
Well-trained employees are more productive, engaged, and loyal, which translates into better customer service, higher quality work, and increased profits.
Additionally, investing in employee training shows that the company values its workforce and is committed to their personal and professional development.
The 5 Steps To Developing An Effective Employee Training Program
1. Assess Training Needs
Start by identifying the skills, knowledge, and competencies that employees need to perform their jobs effectively.
Conduct surveys, interviews, and assessments to determine where gaps exist and what training is needed to fill those gaps.
2. Set Training Goals
Clearly define what you want to achieve with your training program. Set specific and measurable goals that align with your business objectives.
3. Choose The Right Training Methods
There are many different ways to deliver training, including classroom instruction, online courses, on-the-job training, mentoring, and more.
Consider factors such as the type of content, the learning preferences of your employees, and the resources available when selecting training methods.
4. Implement The Training Program
Once you have designed your training program, it’s time to put it into action. Communicate the program to employees, schedule training sessions, and provide any necessary resources or support.
5. Evaluate And Refine The Program:
Regularly assess the effectiveness of the training program by collecting feedback from employees and measuring key performance indicators (KPIs).
Use this data to identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments to enhance the program over time.
Tips And Best Practices To Make Employee Training Programs More Effective
Personalize Training Based On Employee Needs And Preferences
One-size-fits-all training programs are rarely effective. Instead, tailor training to the specific needs and learning preferences of your employees.
Consider factors such as job role, skill level, and learning style when designing training programs.
Use A Blended Learning Approach
Combining different training methods, such as online courses, classroom instruction, and hands-on practice, can make training more engaging and effective.
This allows employees to learn in a way that works best for them and reinforces key concepts through multiple channels.
Make Training Interactive And Engaging
Boring, lecture-style training sessions are unlikely to hold employees’ attention or lead to long-term retention.
Incorporate interactive elements, such as group discussions, role-playing, and problem-solving exercises, to keep employees engaged and motivated.
Provide Ongoing Support And Resources
Learning doesn’t stop when the training session ends. Provide employees with ongoing support and resources, such as reference materials, job aids, and access to mentors or coaches, to help them apply what they’ve learned on the job.
Encourage Feedback And Continuous Improvement:
Regularly seek feedback from employees on the effectiveness of training programs and use this information to make continuous improvements. Encourage employees to provide suggestions for future training topics and formats.
Frequenlty Asked Questions:
What Kind Of Training Is Good For Employees?
The type of training that is good for employees depends on their specific job roles, skill levels, and learning needs. However, some common types of training that are beneficial for most employees include:
- Onboarding and orientation training
- Compliance training
- Technical skills training
- Soft skills training
- Leadership and management training
How Should You Train Your Employees?
When training employees, it’s important to use a variety of methods to keep them engaged and motivated. Some effective training techniques include:
- Classroom instruction
- Online courses and e-learning modules
- On-the-job training and shadowing
- Mentoring and coaching
- Simulations and role-playing exercises
- Group discussions and collaborative projects
What Are The 5 Steps In A Good Employee Training Program?
The five steps in a good employee training program are:
- Assess training needs
- Set training goals and objectives
- Choose the right training methods
- Implement the training program
- Evaluate and refine the program
How Does Training Help Employees?
Training helps employees in several ways, including:
- Improving job performance and productivity
- Increasing engagement and satisfaction
- Enhancing skills and knowledge
- Providing opportunities for growth and development
- Building a positive work environment and strong company culture
What Is The Most Effective Employee Training Method?
The most effective employee training method varies depending on the content, audience, and learning objectives. However, some of the most effective training methods include:
- Blended learning approaches that combine different formats
- Interactive and hands-on training sessions
- Personalized training based on individual needs and preferences
- Ongoing support and resources to reinforce learning
- Continuous evaluation and improvement of training programs
Final Thoughts
Employee training programs are essential for the success of any organization.
So far, in this guide, we already covered different types of training programs for employees.
From onboarding and compliance training to leadership development and industry-specific courses, these programs cover all employee learning and upskilling needs.
To make the most of employee training, it’s important to follow a structured process that includes assessing needs, setting goals, choosing the right methods, implementing the program, and evaluating results.
In addition, incorporating best practices such as personalization, blended learning, interactivity, and ongoing support can significantly enhance the effectiveness of training initiatives.
Want to improve your HR team’s skill sets? Check out top HR training courses and certification programs at hrtech. Explore more now!
