How to Implement Employee Training When Employees Work Different Shifts
Employers have an obligation to provide workers with the necessary tools and information to perform their job duties. This includes training and development, which can range from new-hire orientation to leadership training for supervisors and managers. Companies that employ workers around the clock may need to organize training, seminars and workshops for employees outside business hours to accommodate workers assigned to various shifts.
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Consult your information technology staff for suggestions about computer-based, online training. Large organizations may determine this is an efficient and cost-effective method to offer training for employees who have computer skills and Internet access. Additional steps may be necessary to determine how many of your employees own computers and have Internet access. If your organization is implementing regular training for a large workforce, it may be worth the investment to survey employees' computer knowledge and availability.
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Calculate the number of employees or percentage of your workforce assigned traditional day shifts and compare it to employees working the swing or graveyard shifts. If a minimal number of employees are scheduled for swing and graveyard, consider the possibility of alternate schedules for mandatory attendance during training. Reward employees who trade shifts with extra time off or another form of recognition that shows your appreciation.
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Draft a communication with employees or meet with department supervisors and managers to discuss training schedules. In addition, consider polling employees to solicit feedback on preferences for alternate work schedules or attendance during non-work hours. If you provide mandatory training during non-work hours, consult federal and local employment regulations about overtime wages. The U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division enforces overtime regulations; however, individual states have additional regulations with which employers must comply.
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Check ther ability of your human resources and training specialists to work independently, as well as their availability to adjust their schedules to provide training during alternate shifts. Companies providing round-the-clock training sessions convey an important message -- that the employer understands employees have commitments and obligations outside the workplace that prevent them from changing their work schedules.
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