In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with David Wentworth about the disconnect between employers and their frontline workforce. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
David and Jonathan discussed the disconnect between employers and their frontline workforce, with a focus on the importance of understanding the workplace technology industry and the role of learning and development platforms. They also explored the challenges faced by larger organizations in adapting to changing employee needs and strategies, and the need for more personalized and flexible learning experiences. Lastly, they emphasized the importance of employee satisfaction and development in reducing turnover and increasing productivity, and the potential benefits of investing more in frontline employees.
Addressing Disconnect in Workplace Technology
David and Jonathan discussed the disconnect between employers and their frontline workforce. Jonathan expressed his belief that organizational leaders have the best of intentions but often struggle to bridge the gap with their frontline workers. David, as a platform evangelist at Schoox emphasized the importance of understanding the workplace technology industry with a focus on learning and development. They agreed to explore ways to eliminate the disconnect using technology. The conversation was set to continue with David painting a picture of why the disconnect exists and how it can be connected to learning and development platforms.
Challenges in Adapting to Changing Needs
David and Jonathan discussed the challenges faced by larger organizations in adapting to changing employee needs and strategies. They noted that these organizations often have decision-makers who lack the day-to-day experience of their learners, making it difficult to create effective learning strategies. They also highlighted the issue of processes becoming calcified and not adapting to the changing world around them. Jonathan emphasized the importance of providing a great learning opportunity for frontline employees to improve customer relations and experiences. David and Jonathan agreed that while the intention of these organizations is usually to do right by their people, the systems and processes in place often hinder this goal. They concluded by noting the shift from traditional classroom-based learning to more technologically driven platforms like Schoox.
Addressing Training and Technology Gaps
David and Jonathan discussed the challenges faced by frontline employers and their employees in terms of training and technology adoption. David highlighted that 91% of employees want training on a mobile device, but only 14% of companies prioritize mobile learning. He also noted that employees feel they lack opportunities to practice and internalize the skills they learn. David suggested that this could lead to a disconnect between the training provided and the needs of the employees. Jonathan agreed, noting the need for more real-world, experiential learning and hands-on practice. David also mentioned that employers often struggle with productivity, new hire retention, and performance, which can be linked to their training and development methods. The conversation ended with Jonathan asking how their platform could be utilized to address these gaps and how to approach management that is resistant to technology.
Supplementing Classroom Training With Tech
David explains that classroom training is still valuable, but it needs to be supplemented with other learning methods like technology and reinforcement activities. He suggests using technology to deliver bite-sized, engaging content and revisit topics as needed. David shares examples of clients using mobile learning, gamification, QR codes, and videos to train employees efficiently and improve performance. The key is meeting learners where they are and providing flexibility through various delivery methods.
Personalized Learning for Diverse Audiences
David and Jonathan discussed the importance of providing personalized and flexible learning experiences to meet the diverse needs of different audiences within an organization. They highlighted the inefficiencies of traditional classroom training and the benefits of on-demand, personalized learning, which can lead to increased motivation, productivity, and positive impact on performance. They also touched on the issue of high turnover rates in retail and restaurant environments and how effective training could help reduce this. David suggested that organizations could learn from kindergarten teachers in terms of getting everyone level set without losing those in between.
Employee Satisfaction and Development
David discussed the importance of employee satisfaction and development in reducing turnover and increasing productivity. He highlighted the benefits of personalized training, development of new skills, and creating an environment of growth within an organization. David also mentioned his active presence on LinkedIn and his podcast, "They Learn, You Win". He encouraged companies to invest more in their frontline employees, as the payoffs are significant. Jonathan thanked David for his insights and promised to share the recording with the audience.
Listen to the webinar here:
