Managers have the important role of developing individual employees into strong members of a team. Traditionally, many employees took part in standard individual training sessions that may have contributed very little to their actual roles and responsibilities. Today, many managers have turned to techniques like peer learning to engage employees and help them become more sufficient. Individuals want to learn in ways that are more customized to their interests and peer learning is a great strategy for building skills and workplace relationships.
What is Peer Learning?
Peer learning is when colleagues work together to share their expertise and knowledge to help others learn a new skill, concept, or process. It always involves some sort of collaboration between two or more peers. From shadowing someone at work to having lunch-and-learns with colleagues, the idea of peer learning is that all employees learn something new from the exchange.
Why Peer Learning is Beneficial in the Workplace
Promotes Teamwork
Peer learning encourages employees to work together to solve problems, share ideas, and collaborate to overcome challenges together. This fosters camaraderie and unity among employees.
Fosters Open Communication
Peer learning creates a dynamic where everyone is encouraged to share their ideas and opinions. This encourages employees to speak up without fear of judgment or rejection. It also helps foster an environment of mutual respect where everyone is seen as an equal contributor.
It is Cost Effective
Peer learning is an excellent way to teach and train employees without spending a fortune outsourcing training programs, instructors, and workshops. By utilizing the skills you already have in your organization, you are teaching crucial skills while also optimizing your costs.
It Builds Engagement in the Workplace
Peer to peer learning leads to better performance, better retention, and better employee engagement. When employees work together, they are more likely to be satisfied and successful in their jobs.
If you are interested in learning more, contact us today at 1-800-501-1245 to request information about training courses from the Management Training Institute as well as other corporate training programs offered through our parent company Bold New Directions.