Training is always an interesting subject. At some companies there is virtually none and others, it is taken very seriously with the use of external companies.
In the hotel world, how often should sales managers be trained or should they already have enough skills and experience to be able to sell effectively?
Normally, I think most people would agree that some sort of training or skills update from time to time is beneficial for employees and then the company.
So, if that is the case, how is it done? Do you use top billing internal resources or do you go external for a more established course/trainer?
In my experience, internal resources are not utilised enough. There is often a great deal of talent, sometimes untapped, that is not even considered. Sure, they may not be bona fide trainers as such, but the skills and experiences they bring are often invaluable. Moreover, people are really motivated to be asked and help support their colleagues.
This does not have to be senior managers as often their current expertise is too far removed from the team they are coaching. Perhaps the internal resources would need support but the results are often great for all sides.
In addition, perhaps external providers are used in too much of a generic way. Does everyone really need to know how to present in front of 40 people? Are you briefing your outsourced company correctly? Don’t buy off the shelf even if it seems cheaper. It will invariably not give you the results you need. Good training companies will be happy to provide you with a bespoke option and it should not be too costly.
However, in saying all that is practical mentoring perhaps the best way to see real tangible results?
