Everything You Need to Know About On The Job Training

Some job listings emphasize the possibility of on the job training. But exactly does that mean? Almost all jobs involve some type of workplace training, so what makes this listing different? Before you apply for or accept a position with on the job training, there are a few things you should know.

What Is on the Job Training?

On the job training is a term that refers to any training you develop as you work. Although there are several forms of training, this is one type that's quite common. It's usually used with other methods, like classroom teaching, observation, and online courses. Each type of training has its own merits, but on the job training is particularly valuable.

As an employee, you should jump at the chance to have on the job training. There are many benefits to this type of training, which you can explore later.

How the Training Works

So, how does on the job training work? Unlike most other methods of training, this type is informal and happens at your place of work. Before you start as an official, full-time employee, you usually have a set training period.

While training, you learn how to use the tools in the workplace. You also learn about the materials, equipment, and daily duty requirements. All of the details you learn should be specific to your job. Typically, on the job training is only for the position you accept or are being promoted to.

This type of training is most often done by a manager, co-worker, or sponsor. After they feel you're fit for the job, the trainer will allow you to work independently or advance. Sometimes, employers refer to this term as an apprenticeship. But the employer may also just consider it a training period.

At other times, the training is an internship. While an employer may pay you for an apprenticeship, they probably won't pay you for an internship. There are some instances when an employer might opt to pay their interns. However, this isn't the norm.

How On the Job Training Benefits You

If you're hunting for work, you might wonder about the merits of on the job training. All of the following are reasons on the job training helps you as well as the employer:

You're Paid for Training

Perhaps the biggest benefit of on the job training is the pay. Because most companies pay their employees for on the job training, you can educate yourself while you earn a wage. The wage might increase as you gain skills. When it comes to the financial side of things, on the job training tends to be the most lucrative.

You Get Skills Quickly

If you take an online course or training program, it could take months for you to acquire skills. But on the job training is much faster. In only a short amount of time, you can learn how to perform your job and acquire new skills.

Positive Atmosphere

This isn't always the case, but most employers who offer on the job training truly care about their employees. After all, they're paying to train you. They're more likely to maintain a positive environment in the workplace.

Better Relationships

When you start a new job, it can be tough to connect with the other employees and supervisors. However, on the job training puts you face-to-face with your co-workers. It's much easier to connect with your peers and supervisors with this type of training.

You Learn the Company's Structure

If you don't receive on the job training, you might not know everything you want to know about a company. This includes the hierarchy and the promotion practices. As a result, you might not know what it takes to move forward in your career. On the job training allows you to learn and ask questions about how the company works.

Embrace Your Learning Style

For the most part, employees prefer to learn at work than they do in another environment. Learning how to do a job from a book isn't easy, and it might not work well with your preferred learning style.

When you receive on the job training, you can learn the way you want. If you don't understand something or struggle with a certain style of learning, your trainer can help you.

What Positions Offer On the Job Training?

On the job training isn't always available. If you want to become a doctor or a psychiatrist, you won't be able to do all of your training in the workplace. Here are a few examples of positions that often have on the job training:

Chef

If you're passionate about food, this is one career field that will almost guarantee you on the job training. You can start out with an apprenticeship and earn money as you learn how to be a chef. There are other ways to gain skills, but an apprenticeship is a common and effective method.

HVAC Technician

For individuals who enjoy working with their hands and are good with machinery, a career in the HVAC industry could be a good fit. The employees learn many of their skills on an internship as they follow around another skilled employee.

Construction Worker

As the construction field is growing, more people are interested in pursuing a career in the industry. And one way to go about this is to do an apprenticeship. You could also choose to earn a degree and perform some on the job training after you receive a traditional education.

Electrician

As technology advances, electricians are more important than ever. You can enter this field by either attending technical school or doing an apprenticeship.

Plumber

As a plumber, steamfitter, or pipefitter, you could take part in on the job training. Similar to the training requirements for an electrician, the requirements for being a plumber are either vocational school or an apprenticeship.

How to Get Started

If you want a job with on the job training, don't be afraid to start looking for work. Check job listings for positions that specifically mention on the job training.