The Importance of Training (AQA GCSE Business): Revision Note

Both new and existing staff need to be trained and developed appropriately

• Training is the teaching of new skills and knowledge

• Development is the improvement of existing skills

A well-trained workforce is beneficial to a business for several reasons

Some training is required to meet legal requirements

• Food safety regulations require workers to be trained in the safe handling of ingredients

• Businesses must ensure that some workers have first-aid training

• Employees working with hazardous chemicals must receive appropriate training

The form of training provided to employees depends on a range of factors

The cost of training can be significant, especially if businesses make use of external training providers or enrol staff on courses to achieve formal qualifications such as degrees

• Businesses that are in a weak financial position often scale back training programmes, preferring cheaper on the job approaches

The training needs of workers will usually determine the type of training required

• Business-specific knowledge and skills may be best delivered in-house, as external course providers are unlikely to be able to meet trainees' needs fully

• Professional qualifications are often delivered by colleges or universities

Employees' existing skills and experience will determine how much and at what level of training they should be involved

• Experienced employees with effective communication skills are often well-placed to deliver training to others

• In some cases, there may be concern that poor working practices may be passed on to other employees