Training and development are critical to an organisation's success. However, a significant expectation gap exists between what employees desire and what their organisations provide. Within the HR function, training, learning, and development continue to be key drivers in seeking new opportunities.  

This article is the first in a series about HR training and development. Dive in and learn what the data says about what your people want and the importance of prioritising training. 

Understanding the Expectation Gap

Key insights from a recent Michael Page survey reveals:

1.Lack of adequate training for increased responsibilities:

Three in five (59%) employees report not receiving additional training before taking on new responsibilities. This highlights a significant shortfall in professional development efforts within many organisations.

2.The importance of continuous learning:

86% of workers recognise the importance of continuously learning new skills to advance in their careers. Ongoing development is crucial for both personal and professional growth, emphasising the need for organisations to foster a culture of continuous learning.

3.Need for additional resources and support:

78% of workers call for management to provide extra resources rather than overburdening existing staff. There is a clear demand for adequate support and investment in employee growth and well-being, highlighting the importance of resources for effective learning and development.

4.Barrier to career development:

16% of HR respondents feel that a lack of on-the-job training opportunities hinders their career development. If you want to retain and advance HR professionals within your organisation, it’s essential to address this call for development.   

Need support filling a skills gap in your HR team urgently? Explore our approach to sourcing and placing HR talent: 

HR recruitment at Michael Page

Embracing technology for enhanced training

The role of AI and automation in shaping the future of work

As AI and automation continue to reshape the workplace, organisations need to factor in skills development to prepare their workforce to leverage emerging technologies. Our Talent Trends 2024 report: The Expectation Gap, highlights the importance of integrating technology into training programmes to drive long-term success.

There’s a strong appetite for knowledge and the need for training that focuses on emerging technologies such as AI. 92% of employees are willing to learn more about AI to adapt to new roles (80%) and improve efficiency (77%), for example. 

Explore Talent Trends data

Practical applications of AI in HR

AI and automation are transforming HR processes, enhancing efficiency, and reducing bias. Automated tools are now used for:

Video interviewing: Streamlining the interview process by conducting interviews remotely.

CV screening: Analysing skills and key areas of interest quickly and efficiently.

Candidate identification: Flagging potential candidates on job boards for recruitment teams to contact.

Shortlisting candidates: Using job specifications to identify the best candidates from multiple sources like LinkedIn and CV databases.

Bias reduction: Creating inclusive job descriptions and assessing candidates based on skills and experience, rather than subjective criteria. 

For more insights on how AI is revolutionising recruitment, read our article on how AI and automation are transforming HR. 

Navigating the legalities and best practices of AI in HR

Understanding the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into your HR function is crucial. From legal considerations to best practices, organisations must stay informed to implement AI effectively. Our webinar on AI in HR provides valuable insights into this evolving landscape. 

Investing in the future

Bridging the training and development gap is not just about meeting immediate needs; it's about investing in the future of your organisation. By prioritising training and embracing new technologies, you can create a more skilled, engaged, and productive workforce. Stay tuned for the next articles in this series, where we will explore scaling training effectively and cultivating a culture of learning within your organisation.

For more insights on how to enhance your training and development strategies, explore our development and retention resources at Michael Page and take the first step towards a more empowered and capable workforce. 

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