On-the-job training

Form of workplace training
On the job training (widely known as OJT) is an important topic of human resource management. It helps develop the career of the individual and the prosperous growth of the organization. On the job training is a form of training provided at the workplace. During the training, employees are familiarized with the working environment they will become part of. Employees also get a hands on experience using machinery, equipment, tools, materials, etc. Part of on the job training is to face the challenges that occur during the performance of the job. An experienced employee or a manager are executing the role of the mentor who through written, or verbal instructions and demonstrations are passing on his/her knowledge and company specific skills to the new employee. Executing the training on at the job location, rather than the classroom, creates a stress free environment for the employees. On the job training is the most popular method of training not only in the United States but in most of the developed countries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, etc. Its effectiveness is based on the use of existing workplace tools, machines, documents and equipment, and the knowledge of specialists who are working in this field. On the job training is easy to arrange and manage and it simplifies the process of adapting to the new workplace. On the job training is highly used for practical tasks. It is inexpensive, and it doesn't require special equipment that is normally used for a specific job. Upon satisfaction of completion of the training, the employer is expected to retain participants as regular employees.

There are both advantages and disadvantages to on the job training. Before deciding which type of training is most beneficial, companies need to weigh out if there are more disadvantages than advantages of the training method. If that's the case, they need to opt out from the on the job training and look for better options.

On the job training is beneficial for both employers and employees. For the employers, it is beneficial because it narrows down and prepares the skilled employees who are right for the company. By the end of the training process, the company's values, strategy, and goals are introduced and resulting in an employee's loyalty to the business. Employees trained in the job are an important asset for the company because they can cover more areas than just the tasks in their job description. On the job training creates a culture which extends past the bare minimum required by the job and allows continuing education as part of the working process. As a result, an uninterrupted production process increases the company's gains when opting out from the need of an initial investment for an off site training. On the job training is cost effective. For employees, on the job training is beneficial because it allows them to learn a new skill or qualification within their field of work in a timely matter. During on the job training, they are engaged in the real production process instead of the simulated learning process. The new teammate is being introduced to the team and the company's values during the first step of the on the job training. On the job training leads to more opportunities to grow within the organization.

On the job training can be a disadvantage for the company when the new employee doesn't have the required skills. This will result in more time needed for the training to be completed and will cost the company more since it takes the trainer and materials out of production for the duration of the training time. On the job training can often cause distraction of the regular working day which can affect productivity. If employees are not introduced to the safety features and safety precautions are not taught prior to entering the job field, there could be injuries since on the job training is most often used for practical tasks and working with machinery. Such an issue can cause a company a lawsuit and loss of assets. Finally, oftentimes on the job training is rushed and that can cause a negative effect on productivity.