Why is practical training critical to the property management industry? Let’s look at the benefits and evidence of practical training, as well as the reasons why training needs to be role-specific, and how online learning can offer a more efficient method of training.
To gain the maximum benefit from training, for both participants and business owners, all training should be task- and role-specific and should ultimately measure competency. This ensures that the essential knowledge has been acquired for the property manager to competently perform tasks required of them within the guidelines of the job description.
Online learning training modules are structured to help participants achieve the learning outcomes and assessment criteria. Each module contains the learning necessary to ensure participants successfully complete and gain maximum competency. Modules include a test designed to confirm that a participant has acquired the knowledge and understanding necessary to demonstrate their competency to successfully perform their role. This type of assessment will determine that they have completed the training to the desired standard. The business owner is back in control of training and knows exactly at any given time if the participant has actually completed the training, is competent, and has the knowledge and ability to perform their role.
Another benefit of e-learning is the flexibility. This style training is extremely flexible as the learning is completed in the workplace eliminating the need for the participant to be sent off-site. Off-site training not only incurs travel and accommodation costs but also accounts for many hours of unnecessary loss of productivity. In daily operations, often questions need to be asked and issues need to be addressed with a level of urgency and priority. Traditional training requires the property manager to be out of the office for significant periods of time. Their absence unnecessarily affects productivity. However, e-learning in the workplace allows flexibility so that if something requires immediate attention, the property manager can easily pause their training, take care of the issue at hand then return to focus on the training at the point they left off. The normal flow of business is not interrupted and productivity is not affected.
Practical learning teaches the property manager the practical side of property management rather than just theory. This training also teaches them processes, policies and systems. Typically, outside learning teaches them ideas that usually breakdown the processes currently being used within the agency.
After completing each module the participant understands both the practical application of their relevant task as well as how they will implement and establish procedures in day-to-day business operations. They will understand implementation in accordance with the systems, procedures, and policies of the agency.
Business owners are starting to understand the value that their property managers bring to the business. Hiring a property manager is an investment in the business. Therefore, it is wise to cultivate the skills of a property manager to work smart as a dedicated and loyal team member. One of the best ways of doing this is to offer continual and relevant training. Not only does this help a property manager with personal growth but also the practical aspects of their learning can be directly and immediately applied to their work greatly benefiting the business with increased productivity, accuracy and efficiency. Not to mention happier teams who feel like they are in control and confident.
Property managers who are provided with quality training have a tendency to be more loyal to the agency that offers support. They perceive the business is interested in their personal growth and progress. As a result, they are more likely to want to utilize their newly acquired knowledge and skills which in turn benefit the business. Training is an investment but it is an investment into a valuable resource that will ultimately help grow the business profitability in the form of long-term, dedicated, loyal and skilled teams.
In summary, with all the advantages of e-learning in the workplace, it is no wonder so many industries are turning to this method of training to benefit their staff. Property managers who undertake e-learning training are a valuable business asset. They can use their increased knowledge and skill set to benefit the business and increase productivity, accuracy and efficiency. E-learning specifically helps the business financially, both directly and indirectly. The property manager learns valuable knowledge, skills and system implementation. They also learn more quickly, retain knowledge more effectively and can still be available throughout the day for operational issues and tasks.
It’s time for the property management industry to step into the twenty-first century when it comes to training. Practical training makes sense in every way, benefiting business owners, teams and clients.
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