The need to develop a workforce that can adapt to various market developments is crucial for business leaders in the modern day.
Developing agility requires complex and dynamic learning environments which traditional learning solutions do not accommodate easily. Fortunately, alongside the evolution of technology, virtual learning methods are now readily available to allow employees to improve their skills in areas extended to their typical roles.
Virtual learning can be implemented to cater to established employees as well as benefiting graduate training programmes to help integrate new hires into a business with ease.
What is an agile workforce?
An agile workforce will work collaboratively to improve business operations long term. Compared to a typical workforce, agile employees will be able to adapt and overcome significant changes and developments in a particular sector with ease.
The concept of an agile workforce is becoming increasingly popular in improving productivity in the modern workplace. According to research conducted by Capita Resourcing last year, 86% of UK businesses believe that they need to develop a fully agile workforce within two years in order to remain competitive.
Business leaders can make use of their experiential learning programmes and maintain an agile workforce by motivating employees regularly, giving them the responsibility to make decisions that are typically expected of leaders, and by promoting role rotation.
What is virtual learning and how can it be utilised to improve agility?
Put simply, virtual learning allows employees to access online platforms to develop their skills in various aspects related to their roles and the wider business.
There are several benefits that virtual learning poses for businesses when it comes to workplace training. Firstly, it allows individuals of all levels and authority to develop their skills at a pace that is best suited to them. Compared to traditional workplace training methods which require individuals to learn the same information at the same time, virtual learning ensures that nobody is left behind.
As well as allowing individuals to learn and develop at their own pace, virtual learning methods are easily accessible for all. In particular, for employees who typically work away from an office environment, being able to access online materials whenever and wherever is hugely beneficial.
When it comes to developing an agile workforce, virtual learning can be utilised through a number of mediums including video, webinars and virtual conferences to build the skills of employees not only in their roles but in other aspects related to the business including compliance and leadership.
Virtual learning in graduate training programmes
For new hires entering the workplace for the first time, the prospect of a typical graduate training programme can be overwhelming. If business leaders invest in virtual learning methods; young employees will be able to learn about their new roles and the business in a less daunting way.
Graduate training programmes are also an opportunity for business leaders to draw on the expertise of established employees to help guide new hires in the right direction. Encouraging employees of all levels to work together to collectively improve is crucial in developing an agile workforce that can support and assist one another.
For employees of all ages, embracing the digital age and utilising virtual learning methods in all forms of workplace training is a surefire method for developing an agile workforce. At a time where collaboration is key, the flexibility that virtual learning provides is guaranteed to improve staff productivity.