Background
In 2000, YES Employment Services (Thunder Bay)’s Board of Directors authorized a review of our staff training and development needs. Our organization had grown significantly within the previous 3 years requiring us to recruit many new staff and integrate these with long-term employees. Subsequent analysis indicated that our agency would benefit from a comprehensive staff training and development program. Once implemented, it would help ensure high service standards and encourage retention of staff. In addition, our training plan could be financially sustainable.
After needs analysis, our Executive Assistant began the process of developing YES training modules/sessions specific to service delivery needs integrating staff, management and client input.
There was consensus regarding the benefits of committing to continuous training specific to our provision of employment services. Our client base was rapidly expanding as was the diversity of counselling issues we were dealing with.
Seven areas encompassing current counselling practice and theory were identified and training was planned, developed and is currently being offered on a regular basis.
At present, training modules are displayed on a specially designed chart mounted in our main staff area. Staff completions are individually tracked on the chart. In addition, each successful participant receives a certificate detailing training received. Training is designed in such a manner that a staff member can complete all modules within a 3 year period. In order to recognize the increase in skill and knowledge gained, YES ensures that training is linked to our wage increment scale. Internal feedback regarding staff development and training needs is also part of annual staff evaluations.