How To Implement a Continuing Education Program

From Inc. Magazine (08/18/2010) by Lou Dubois:

"Despite budget limitations, small and mid-sized businesses need to focus on employee training and development. While 41 percent of employees polled by Louis Harris and Associates planned to leave companies with poor training during the next 12 months, only 12 percent of respondents planned to leave companies with excellent training opportunities. The study indicates that employees are happier and likely will stay where they are if they are well-trained, discrediting the popular belief that employees seek out better job opportunities once they have been trained.

To institute a continuing education program, firms should partner with corporate universities on customized programs that meet their specific industry and business needs. They also should consider partnering with local universities, as they could offer night and online classes so that employees can maintain a normal work schedule; but companies need to be understanding and offer support to workers furthering their education. Partnerships with local universities allow employees to pursue advance degrees, certificates, or continuing education units."

Read the complete article at Inc. Magazine