HR directors 'should consider using online training'

Human resources (HR) professionals who are struggling to balance responsibilities should use online training videos to help them organise departments more efficiently.

This is according to author and internet entrepreneur Grady Winston, who published a post on Business 2 Community that outlined the positives of using e-learning in a business.

He stated that "even in companies with more than one person handling the duties, it may be difficult to keep up with the workload of a busy personnel department".

Previously, workers in an organisation were trained in large groups or individually during a working day, which took up an hour or more of a specialist's time.

However, by introducing digital learning sessions, HR directors are able to get on with their own tasks, while employees can access the online material at their own convenience or in the privacy of their own homes.

The post revealed a number of personnel departments are already using these methods to train their staff and to ensure their workforce is actually paying attention to the videos, most classes are followed by a quiz based around the e-learning.

Furthermore, many managers can track what videos are being watched by which employees and what content they have left to view.

Mr Winston continued: "With the right tools in place, you will be able to use your time for the many other personnel-related duties, such as interviewing and hiring."

One training provider to offer such tools in the UK is Virtual College, which has a host of e-learning modules in topics such as Equality and Diversity in the Workplace and How to Recognise and Reward Your Team.

Among the other suggestions provided by the expert were the introduction of employee handbook software, which functions to outline the policies, procedures and benefits of an organisation, as well as what workers can expect from their company.

In addition, HR professionals may benefit from storing staff information in one location and using tracking tools to help them maintain schedules and keep on top of absence levels.