I’m sure you’ve heard people say “This is the way we’ve always done it.” Although a set way of doing
certain things is important, in leadership, we should always challenge traditional thinking in leadership
training. We often hear, “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:15).
The value of leadership training is undeniable and it equips employees with the knowledge and skills to
drive success and growth. But does training before or after mistakes have been made impact its
effectiveness?
Training and leadership are essential in preventing failures that may cause profound consequences on
human safety and wellness, which is why employers and managers must recognize the importance of
training, especially when hiring and retaining employees. Many organizations sideline proactive training
due to associated costs and time constraints, leading to detrimental reactive measures after the fact.
For veteran reintegration and retention in the workplace, the difference between proactive and reactive
training has substantial implications. Access to specialized training programs such as mental health, skill
transferability, and social integration is also critical to retaining veterans. Proactive training provides a
competitive advantage, increased employee engagement, and improved financial performance.
Organizations need to recognize the importance for subject matter experts (SME’s) beyond regulatory
compliance. SME’s possess specialized knowledge and experience and can design comprehensive
training modules tailored to different subgroups’ unique needs. They can assist in developing
comprehensive onboarding programs, design mentorship programs, consult on flexible work
arrangements, provide mental health resources, and help create supportive and inclusive working
environments.
Investing in SME’s requires additional resources upfront but the long-term benefits outweigh the costs.
Organizations will experience improved retention rates, increased productivity, and a competitive
advantage in attracting top talent. Veterans will appreciate companies that demonstrate a genuine
commitment to their well-being and professional growth.
We must embrace a new training paradigm prioritizing proactive measures, subject matter expertise,
and ongoing learning and development. Doing so can elevate organizations, empower employees and
ensure long-term success.
Reach out to me to make your business Veteran READY!