Four Ways Voice Technology Can Transform Workplace Learning

Workplace learning methods are constantly changing to meet the needs of employees and clients operating in the digital world.

From video webinars to access or online resources such as e-books, white papers and guides to download, these ways are now complementing the more ‘formal’ training towards online qualifications that have, and continue to be, offered to people. And, these forms allow for a modern-day organisation to use such a variety of ways to train its staff, as well as keep them engaged and help towards boosting employee retention rates.

Research shows that people accessing technology in order to learn, there are no signs of it slowing down. Employees continuously looking for the best ways to upskill and progress their careers, can use a range of devices to keep their experience relevant within an ever-evolving digital landscape.

But how can voice technology specifically play its part for internal training? And how can organisations capitalise on its potential to empower staff? Sean Gilligan, CEO and founder of eLearning training provider, uncovers four ways audio methods can transform workplace learning.

Multi-tasking

A person’s job isn’t the same as it might’ve been this time last year. There are so many duties they have to think about now in order to complete tasks – whether compiling reports, scheduling social media posts, liaising with clients and staff, and holding meetings, to name a few. Employees might, therefore, be looking into alternative ways to learn on the job, yet still, be productive. This is where listening to audio, such as voice messages, podcasts or flash briefings, can aid staff to continue their learning because they can access the educational tools whilst working, during breaks or after office hours. Voice offers the chance for employees to take in information in another way.

Simplicity

It’s a quick and easy way to send messages and information to colleagues and clients in an instant because the details are there for people to use, and learn from. It could be a small note to let people know about developments on an in-house system they’ve been working on so they know the latest, or a reminder to alert about what they need in order to complete their training. Having this form of communication can save time too because it might be used in place of a face-to-face meeting, or mean someone doesn’t have to go to a venue for an evening class after work. It’s a simple way of connecting employees to accessing ongoing resources too.

Personable

A great way to interact and keep employees engaged, voice notes allow for a personality to come through with the intended tone, which can’t often be managed via an email or text because it lands exactly how it’s sent. Audio can also be a perfect opportunity for mentors or business leaders to tailor their messaging too. They could use it to offer quick-fire tips and advice to people they’re working with which could, in turn, help to motivate and encourage them to keep progressing their training. From an organisational point of view, having a personable piece of kit, that allows prospects and customers to get a real feel for the business, can help set it apart from competitors.

Accessibility

With the capabilities of connecting people from absolutely anywhere, this method of teaching can slot nicely into a modern-day ‘always on’ culture. It means staff can access the information at a time that suits them, and work their learning patterns around their day-to-day duties. Such voice technology can also be accompanied by text-based services to provide inclusive options for staff and clients, as well as be used across various devices from desktop to mobile.

For businesses to consider other methods of learning, in this case through audio options, it’s important to research into what the learning needs are – is it to engage staff in webinars? Or for ongoing messages covering work updates? To work towards qualifications? All three and more? Companies should look into their educational tools and see what the best fit is for their employees because it can often take time to introduce a new way of working into a team. However, voice technology has the capabilities for organisations to offer employees a completely new way of training – and delivering that level of engagement can help towards business growth.