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Inspiration

Go beyond one-size-fits all training

previously mentioned the importance of patience That's quite a range of learning styles to consider. Com-
when it comes to employee relations, because some- plicating matters, researchers have pointed out that indi-
times people take longer to adapt to changes in our viduals don't necessarily fit neatly into these categories.
I fast-paced industry than we'd like, or they have Plus a person's learning style can change depending on
difficulty mastering the fine points of new products and subject matter and environment. The solution, then, is to
services we are eager to get to market. offer a range of instructional methods so staff members
have multiple ways to absorb and put into practice what is
In addition to being patient, there are things business required for them to succeed.
owners and managers can do to help new contractors or
employees become productive members of the team and Thus, to create an optimal training program, accommo-
to help them stay abreast of new developments going for- date a range of learning styles. Provide visual learners
ward. One of them is to design training programs that with charts, diagrams and infographics that show how
take into consideration people's unique learning styles, re- payment processing works. Offer auditory learners op-
alizing that a one-size-fits-all training program is as inef- portunities to participate in group discussions or listen
fective as a one-size-fits-all product and service bundle for to presentations about new fintech developments. Create
prospective merchant customers. hands-on activities or simulations for kinesthetic learners
to practice using your suite of products.
When it comes to training, keep in mind that researchers
have identified the following common learning styles : Offer training materials and resources in various formats
to accommodate different learning preferences. Provide
• Visual: Visual learners prefer to see information written manuals and online tutorials for reading/writing
presented in charts, diagrams, graphs, or other vi- learners. Conduct webinars or video conferences for vi-
sual formats. sual learners. Incorporate interactive demonstrations and
role-playing exercises for kinesthetic learners.
• Auditory: Auditory learners learn best through lis-
tening. They prefer spoken explanations, lectures,
discussions, and audio recordings. For social learners, encourage people to work together on
projects, share knowledge and exchange ideas. Implement
• Kinesthetic or tactile: Kinesthetic learners learn peer learning programs where employees can teach and
best through hands-on experiences and physical learn from each other in a supportive environment. Of-
activities. fer different types of support, as well, including offering
mentors who can provide personalized guidance based on
• Reading/writing: Reading/writing learners prefer individual learning styles.
to learn through written material.
Also, as a business leader, be flexible and open-minded in
• Logical/mathematical: Logical/mathematical your approach to providing feedback. And, above all, en-
learners excel in reasoning, logic and problem-solv- courage a culture of learning and experimentation where
ing. They prefer to understand concepts through employees feel empowered to explore new ideas and ap-
patterns, logic and mathematical equations. proaches. Do this, and you can create an inclusive, fertile
environment that empowers your team to function at their
• Social: Social learners thrive in group settings and best and contribute to your company's success.
learn best through interaction with others.
• Solitary: Solitary learners prefer to work indepen-
dently and learn best in quiet, focused environ-
ments.
Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
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