SHARING OUR KNOWLEDGE:
Training & Development

In our latest Australian Workplace Series, 41% of Australian employees receive no training and development, while 34% receive few relevant training and development opportunities. Just 25% of employees we surveyed said their employer offers excellent training and development opportunities.

Based on the results of this survey, conducted on www.hays.com.au, we then interviewed over 100 currently employed candidates, and found that 32% would rather receive ongoing training and development over a pay rise. 36% said they do not receive enough training and 46% believe that without ongoing training and development their performance declines over time.

84% of employees feel more committed to an employer who invests in their training and development. 86% said training and development is an investment in their professional future with their employer, and 70% said lack of training and development would convince them to look for a new job.

When it comes to the payment of training, 73% of respondents said their employer should pay for ongoing training and development. 25% said they would definitely contribute to the cost and 46% said they would probably contribute, but it would depend on the extent of the contribution.

Of the training and development tools available, 35% of employers offer resource tools online or workbooks, 29% offer workshops on an ad hoc basis and 27% offer external formal training.

Just 14% of employees said ongoing training and development was not important to them.

"Training and development is an investment in a company's staff, yet this survey clearly shows that learning and development is not a priority in many Australian workplaces," said Jacky Carter, Director of Hays.

"The benefits of training and development are immense. Training and development strengthens the skills, knowledge and expertise of staff and carefully structured and supported programs enable employers to benefit from a more energetic, harmonious and productive workforce.

"The most common training option is a tailored induction program provided to new employees, which provides a full understanding of internal procedures and processes. Yet it seems even induction training is not as common as it once was.

"As we enter a candidate-tight market, it is even more imperative that employers invest in the training and development of their staff to aid in retention," Jacky said.

The online survey received 1,280 responses and asked, 'Does your employer offer excellent training opportunities, few relevant training opportunities or no training at all'. The results were:

  • Excellent training opportunities - 25%
  • Few relevant training opportunities - 34%
  • No training at all - 41%