Since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote-based work has become the norm for many organizations. In fact, statistics show that 36.2 million Americans will be working from home by 2025. Now that companies are shifting to remote work, many businesses need to establish effective virtual training programs. But how can managers quickly adapt to online learning for remote training and development? To maximize productivity and outcomes, managers must utilize these remote training methods for best practices.
1. Choose an Appropriate Delivery Model
When using the term remote training, people typically think of online meetings. While this is an effective model, it isn’t the only method available. Consider the following training models and implement the ones that work best for your employees.
Synchronous Learning
Synchronous learning is where all learners participate in a training activity simultaneously. This activity involves a virtual online training classroom at a fixed time. Acknowledge that you must plan your teaching sessions carefully, so ensure you are announcing ahead of time. This remote training method is most suitable for trainees in a similar time zone. That way, they can all participate together.
Asynchronous Learning
Asynchronous training involves learners accessing the materials and resources at their own pace. It’s often referred to as a “self-paced” model — where learners don’t have to access training sessions in real-time.
Blended Learning
Blended learning combines both synchronous and asynchronous models for more flexibility. Remote managers can achieve this combination of remote training methods, including:
- Virtual training
- Live webinars
- Pre-recorded sessions
- Q&A discussion boards
A blended learning environment may be the best approach if you require more complex online training.
2. Adopt the Necessary Tools
With a myriad of tools available, you have to choose the right ones to suit your team’s needs. It’s vital to embrace the proper technology to increase the effectiveness of your remote training methods. Most employees choose features that enable chat, remote access to other’s devices, file sharing, and screen sharing. Ensure you take time to evaluate thoroughly and determine which collaboration tools are best.
For instance, Zoom is an excellent tool for video conferencing. At the same time, you might find Slack to be an effective communication tool. Give your remote team an overview of how best to utilize products — such as software and hardware updates.
Then, you might consider training your employees to use these products effectively. For instance, companies need to be aware of cyber threats to remote employees. The amount of cyberattacks has increased by 30% since 2020. And it’s common for cybercriminals to access a company’s network through remote employees’ devices.
3. Measure Effectiveness of Remote Training
Tracking the effectiveness of remote training is crucial for any business. It helps employers understand if their employees are absorbing the information they receive. This part is where you need to determine which courses and models are most successful and need replacing or improving.
Several methods for measuring effective remote training include:
- 1:1 meetings
- Questionnaires and surveys
- Post-training assessments and quizzes
- Examinations
4. Incorporate Gamification
Gamification is a technique that applies game design principles and strategies to a non-gaming context platform. For instance, employers can utilize a leaderboard system with quizzes in the training exercises. Employees can strive for points, badges, and awards.
This atmosphere introduces healthy competition between employees while simultaneously rewarding them for their effort.
Gamification is an effective technique that increases productivity, engagement, and motivation when applied to remote training methods.
5. Create a Supportive Environment
During virtual training, ensure you have a support process in place. Many remote workers can experience burnout at some point. So, you’ll need to assess whether employees are feeling overwhelmed by assigning a mentor and providing regular check-ins.
Another support method is to provide company FAQs on the website. Ensuring the remote team feels a sense of belonging is necessary to aid employee engagement and morale.
Plan and Deliver Effective Remote Training
Delivering effective remote training involves planning. Remember to organize and establish everything in advance. Then, use these tips to maximize results and encourage your team to ask questions or provide feedback during the process. Ultimately, there may be some trial and error on your part, but you’re sure to find what works best for your staff and your company.
