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The Value of Workplace Education Programs

by Lauren Gazda
Edizen Project Manager

Spurred by the market shifts of increased globalization, technology advances, and industry deregulation, the demand for highly skilled employees is greater than ever. However, both public and private sector organizations are experiencing a strong disconnect between the actual versus desired competencies of their employees.

In order to bridge the gap, organizations are implementing Workplace Education Programs (WEP). These training programs are designed with the bottom line in mind: increase workplace productivity, improve employee skills, and enhance financial revenues.

WEPs are specifically designed to teach basic skills and provide technical and job-specific training. Yet when implemented effectively, they can offer significant added benefits including increasing job satisfaction and employee loyalty as well as helping to prepare individuals for organizational change.

A recent study demonstrated the win-win scenario for employees and employers alike. It found that 98% of employees agreed that they had received at least one benefit and learned one skill from a WEP initiative. At the same time, supervisors agreed that WEPs encourage a more skillful, competent labor force.

In terms of job satisfaction and loyalty, employees appreciate their employers’ willingness to invest in them. They also feel more empowered when they are recognized as a valuable asset to their organization. Ultimately, greater skills and training enable employees to be more productive, and employees who receive training are more marketable for promotions and are generally provided with more responsibility.

For employers, WEPs allow organizations to meet the fundamental needs of their employees by providing basic skills training, such as workplace literacy. According to a recent International Literacy Survey, more than 40% of American workers have inadequate literacy skills. This statistic is staggering considering the impact literacy has on productivity.

Workplace literacy is viewed as a skill-based proficiency continuum, rather than a concept. As individuals improve their literacy skills, they become better at interacting with others. Interpersonal skills are not only valued in the workplace environment, but also in individuals’ personal lives. Those individuals who receive literacy training become more confident and are more likely to join social organizations, including PTA’s and community groups.

Workplace Education Programs are a key component to improving today’s workforce. They offer employers better financial gains and improve workplace efficiency. When employees are better educated with basic skills, they feel more confident and satisfied with their job performance.

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