What is On-the-job Training? : Importance, Types, and Methods

Studies show that 70% of workplace learning happens through on-the-job training, while only 20% comes from interactions with peers and 10% from formal education. This makes on-the-job training one of the most effective ways to develop skills and improve performance. Companies using structured on-the-job training report up to 30% faster skill development and higher employee retention rates.

So, what is on-the-job training?

This blog will cover everything you need to know about on-the-job training—why it’s important, the types of training available, and the best methods to implement it effectively.

What is On-the-Job Training?

On-the-job training is a way of teaching employees how to do their work by letting them learn while they are actually doing it. Instead of sitting in a classroom, employees gain skills directly in their workplace. They learn the tasks they need for their job under the guidance of a supervisor or an experienced team member.

This type of training focuses on real tasks and helps employees understand how their role fits into the bigger picture of the company. It’s practical, quick, and helps people get comfortable with their job faster.

How On-the-Job Training Works

1. Introduction:

Employees are told about their role and the tasks they need to perform.

2. Guidance:
A supervisor or senior employee shows them how to do the job step by step.

3. Practice:
Employees try the tasks themselves, with their mentor correcting or guiding them if needed.

4. Working Independently:
Over time, employees become confident and start doing their tasks on their own.

Key Features of On-the-Job Training

• Learn While Working: Employees learn by doing their actual job. They don’t need separate classes or training sessions.
• Guided by Experts: An experienced colleague or supervisor is there to teach and guide.
• Hands-On Experience: Employees practice real tasks, not just theory or exercises.
• Immediate Learning: Whatever they learn is used right away in their work.

Why is On-the-Job Training Important?

On-the-job training is important because it helps employees and companies in many ways.

1. Quick Learning

Employees learn faster because they do the job instead of just listening or reading about it.

2. Practical Experience

The training focuses on real-world tasks so employees understand how to handle situations they will face every day.

3. Builds Confidence

When employees see they can perform their tasks successfully, they feel more confident in their work.

4. Increases Productivity

Employees don’t have to wait to finish training before starting work. They learn and contribute at the same time.

5. Personalized

Supervisors can adjust the training to fit the needs of each employee, focusing on their specific role and skill level.

Challenges of On-the-Job Training

• Mistakes May Happen: Since employees are learning on the job, they might make errors, which could temporarily affect work.
• Time for Supervisors: The mentor or supervisor has to spend time training, which could slow down their work.

Not Always Structured: If not planned well, the training may miss important details or vary in quality.

Types of On-the-Job Training

Different roles and industries require different approaches to help employees learn effectively. Let’s explore the most common and effective types of on-the-job training.

1. Coaching and Mentoring

Coaching involves a manager or senior team member giving one-on-one guidance to help employees improve specific skills. Mentoring goes beyond tasks and focuses on overall career development.

Ideal Situations: When employees need personalized feedback or help with long-term growth.

Examples:

• A sales manager coaching an employee to close deals effectively.
• A mentor guiding a new hire on how to navigate workplace challenges.

2. Job Shadowing

In job shadowing, employees observe an experienced colleague to learn how a specific job is done.

Ideal Situations: When employees are new to a role or exploring different roles in the company.

Examples:

• A junior doctor shadowing a senior surgeon during surgeries.
• A trainee shadowing a customer service representative to learn how to handle calls.

3. Rotational Training

Employees move through different departments or roles to learn various skills and gain a broader understanding of the organization.

Ideal Situations: For fresh hires, management trainees, or employees being prepared for leadership roles.

Examples:

• A graduate trainee rotating through marketing, sales, and operations departments.
• A bank employee working in loans, customer service, and back-office operations.

4. Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are formal training programs in which employees learn a skilled trade by working under an expert for a longer period.

Ideal Situations: When training employees in technical or skilled professions.

Examples:

• Electricians or plumbers learning under licensed professionals.
• Chefs training in a kitchen under an experienced head chef.

5. Internships

Internships allow students or freshers to work in a company for a short period to gain real-world experience.

Ideal Situations: For students exploring career options or graduates looking for practical exposure.

Examples:

• A college student interning with a marketing firm to learn social media management.
• An engineering student working in a manufacturing plant to understand production processes.

6. Buddy Systems

A buddy system pairs a new employee with an experienced team member who helps them settle into their role and the workplace culture.

Ideal Situations: For new hires who need guidance during their initial days.

Examples:

• A new customer support agent paired with a senior colleague to learn the software and processes.
• A new IT team member paired with a buddy to understand project workflows.

7. Stretch Assignments

Stretch assignments involve giving employees challenging tasks outside their usual role to help them develop new skills.

Ideal Situations: For experienced employees looking to grow or prepare for leadership roles.

Examples:

• A marketing executive leading a cross-department project.
• An operations manager tasked with implementing a new software system.

Learn how corporate training aligns with on-the-job learning to build long-term career growth: What Is Corporate Training?.

Methods of On-the-Job Training

There are many ways to train employees while they work. Some focus on hands-on practice, while others use technology or teamwork to make learning easier and more engaging.

1. Hands-On Experience

Employees learn by doing the actual tasks in their job. They gain real-world experience under the guidance of a mentor or supervisor.

Key Benefits:

• Builds confidence through practical learning.
• Helps employees adapt quickly to their role.

Tools Required:

• Workplace tools, equipment, or systems used in daily tasks.

2. Simulation-Based Training

Employees practice tasks in a controlled, virtual environment that mimics real-world situations.

Key Benefits:

• Safe space to learn without real-world risks.
• Ideal for jobs involving complex machinery or critical decisions.

Tools Required:

• Simulators, VR (Virtual Reality), or software platforms.

3. Demonstration and Practice

A supervisor or trainer demonstrates a task step-by-step, and the employee practices it under their guidance.

Key Benefits:

• Easy to follow and understand.
• Helps employees learn by watching and doing.

Tools Required:

• Visual aids, equipment, or tools needed for the task.

4. Project-Based Learning

Employees work on specific projects that help them apply and develop their skills.

Key Benefits:

• Encourages problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Helps employees take ownership of their learning.

Tools Required:

• Project planning tools like Trello or Asana.

5. Peer-to-Peer Learning

Employees learn from their colleagues by sharing knowledge and tips related to their tasks.

Key Benefits:

• Builds teamwork and collaboration.
• Makes learning less formal and more approachable.

Tools Required:

• Collaboration platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams.

6. Observational Learning

Employees observe how experienced colleagues perform tasks to understand best practices.

Key Benefits:

• Quick and straightforward for new hires.
• Allows employees to see real work in action.

Tools Required:

• Access to workstations or areas where tasks are being performed.
• Recording tools (optional) like video cameras or screen capture software for reviewing specific processes.
• Collaboration platforms to facilitate communication and feedback after observation.

7. Job Aids and Tutorials

Employees use written guides, videos, or other resources to learn tasks step-by-step at their own pace.

Key Benefits:

• Ideal for independent learners.
• Provides reference material for later use.

Tools Required:

• Training manuals, video tutorials, or online help systems.

8. Gamified Training

Training is made fun and engaging using games, quizzes, or challenges to teach skills and knowledge.

Key Benefits:

• Keeps employees motivated and interested.
• Encourages healthy competition and rewards learning.

Tools Required:

• Gamification platforms or learning management systems (LMS).

Discover how you can learn while you earn through practical training methods.

How On-the-Job Training Differs from Off-the-Job Training

Which is Better?

Both have their advantages. 

• On-the-job training is perfect for quick, practical learning tied to immediate tasks. 
• Off-the-job training is great for building broader skills or preparing employees for future roles. 

Many companies use a mix of both to get the best results!

How to Make On-the-Job Training Effective

Want to make on-the-job training work better for your employees and your company? To make on-the-job training successful, it needs to be well-planned and focused. 

1. Start by deciding what skills or knowledge employees need to learn. 
2. Give them clear steps to follow, so they don’t feel lost. Experienced mentors or supervisors should guide them and let them practice real tasks.
3. It’s also important to give regular feedback. Let employees know what they’re doing right and how they can improve. 
4. Using tools like videos or apps can make training more interesting. 
5. Finally, check their progress to make sure the training is helping them grow and perform better.

Industries That Rely on On-the-Job Training

Some industries depend on on-the-job training because practical skills are a must for their work. Here’s a quick look:

• Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, and technicians learn by working with patients and using medical tools.
• Manufacturing: Workers operate machines and learn safety rules while on the job.
• Retail and E-commerce: Staff practice customer service and using systems like cash registers.
• Hospitality: Employees improve by handling guests, events, and housekeeping tasks in real-time.
• IT and Software Development: Developers work on real projects to learn coding and troubleshooting.
• Construction and Real Estate: Workers and agents learn through actual site work and property management.

Some industries depend on on-the-job training because practical skills are a must for their work. Here’s a quick look:

• Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, and technicians learn by working with patients and using medical tools.
• Manufacturing: Workers operate machines and learn safety rules while on the job.
• Retail and E-commerce: Staff practice customer service and using systems like cash registers.
• Hospitality: Employees improve by handling guests, events, and housekeeping tasks in real-time.
• IT and Software Development: Developers work on real projects to learn coding and troubleshooting.
• Construction and Real Estate: Workers and agents learn through actual site work and property management.

How Knowing Additional Skills Can Help

Employers want people who bring more to the table—people who can adapt, learn, and take on new challenges. That’s why learning extra skills, or “upskilling,” is so important.

Imagine you’re applying for your dream job, but so are hundreds of others. What makes you stand out? Upskilling does. It helps you:

• Stay Competitive: Learn the latest industry trends and tools.
• Grow Your Career: Qualify for better roles and responsibilities.
• Earn More: Employers pay more for specialized skills.
• Feel Confident: Take on new challenges without hesitation.

For example, if you work in marketing, learning about SEO or social media tools can give you a huge edge. If you’re in IT, knowing data science or AI could open up new career opportunities.

• How Online Platforms Make Learning Easy

Gone are the days when you needed to attend physical classes to learn something new. Online platforms have made it super convenient. You can:

• Learn at your own pace, anytime and anywhere.
• Choose from a variety of courses tailored to your needs.
• Gain practical knowledge by working on real-world projects.
• Earn certifications that employers respect.

Platforms like upGrad are perfect for this—we offer many courses to help you grow in your career.

• Why Choose upGrad?

upGrad offers programs designed to help you gain skills that companies look for. Our courses focus on practical learning and industry-relevant certifications.

Data Science

• Executive Diploma in Data Science & AI
• Business Analytics Certification
• Professional Certificate Program in  AI and Data Science

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Advanced Certificate Program in Generative AI 
• Executive Program in Generative AI for Leaders

Digital Marketing

• Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing and Communication from MICA
• Master of Design in User Experience Design

With upGrad, you can start learning today and take your career to the next level. Ready to make your move?

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Source:
https://trainingindustry.com/wiki/content-development/the-702010-model-for-learning-and-development/