The Benefits of Working with a Training Agent by Cindy Stradling CSP, CPC

Good employee training and development is a key to running a successful business. When employees are properly trained on key job functions and developed for more responsibility and knowledge as they grow, the organization thrives. In addition, employees thrive when they are continuously allowed to expand their horizons, making them less likely to leave you for another opportunity. Many leaders try to tackle all the training needs themselves within their own staff, but there are several benefits to using an external training agent for some of your training needs. Working with and experienced agent can help you identify needs and provide trainers that can deliver sustainable results.  There are many benefits to outsourcing training initiatives:

1. External trainers have credibility. When you are training employees on a skill that isn’t one of the job’s primary tasks, such as negotiation skills or people skills, bringing in an outside trainer can have many benefits. These people have instant credibility as experts in their field. Even if you have a few full time trainers on staff, it can be beneficial to bring in an outside trainer for some programs.
2. External trainers are creative.  Full time trainers spend their time learning new ways to develop the skills they train on. They are likely to have tricks up their sleeve that you wouldn’t think of. They are also masters at keeping the audience engaged. Their training often includes activities that bring home the important ideas in a fun and unique way.
3. External trainers can be cost effective. On the surface, using an outside trainer can seem expensive. But, when you factor in the cost of your time as well as the number of people you may be able to train quickly using a trainer, it can be well worth the up front expense.
4. External trainers free up your time. Your time is valuable and it is certain that other duties will fall by the wayside if you and your staff spend a lot of time training. Using an external trainer can help you keep business “as usual” going on, which drives sales and revenue generation for your business.
   

A good trainer can be one of your business’ most valuable assets. There are many different areas of training in which you can find agents with specialized credentials to help you make the most of your employees’ talent. Take the time to develop a good relationship with a trainer or trainers who can help you keep employee development moving forward without your business activities taking a back seat.