Strategic Human Resource Management

Section Four

Training Methods

Training covers a broad area of human resource activities.
Because of its breadth and importance, medium- and larger-
sized companies typically have specialized training staffs.
Although training is an area of specialization, general managers
should be acquainted with several general training methods
and instructional approaches. The methods discussed in this
section include orientation training, socialization of new
employees, on-the-job training (OJT), apprenticeships,
coaching, mentoring, computer-based training, computer-
assisted instruction, and experiential training. Job rotation also
will be considered as a component in management
development programs.^58 Apprenticeships and management
development will be covered later in greater depth. Many
specifics of both on-the-job training and management
development were covered earlier as part of a discussion of an
investment perspective toward human resources.

Larger organizations generally have some type of
orientation program for new employees. This training is
important because it provides the first real work contact with
the company and the first opportunity for new employees to
develop an understanding of the company’s culture. Because of
its importance, some companies are very careful about the
content and approach of their orientation programs so as to