Training and Development (T&D)

Training and Development (T&D) Training and development (often abbreviated as T&D) focuses on changing or improving the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of individuals. Training typically involves providing employees the knowledge and skills needed to do a particular

task or job, though attitude change may also be attempted (e.g., in sexual harass- ment training). Developmental activities, in contrast, have a longer-term focus on preparing for future work responsibilities while also increasing the capacities of employees to perform their current jobs.

T&D activities begin when a new employee enters the organization, usually in the form of employee orientation and skills training. Employee orientation is the process by which new employees learn important organizational values and norms, establish working relationships, and learn how to function within their jobs. The HRD staff and the hiring supervisor generally share the responsibility for designing the orientation process, conducting general orientation sessions, and beginning the initial skills training. Skills and technical training programs then narrow in scope to teach the new employee a particular skill or area of knowledge.

Once new employees have become proficient in their jobs, HRD activities should focus more on developmental activities—specifically, coaching and counseling. In the coaching process, individuals are encouraged to accept responsibility for their actions, to address any work-related problems, and to achieve and sustain superior levels of performance. Coaching involves treating employees as partners in achieving both personal and organizational goals. Counseling techniques are used to help employees deal with personal problems that may interfere with the achievement of these goals. Counseling programs may address such issues as substance abuse, stress management, smoking cessation, or fitness, nutrition, and weight control.