According to a recent survey from professional training search engine findcourses.com, the mass-shift to remote work and remote training has not dampened learners’ desire for professional training. Instead, how learners need work and training to be delivered has changed.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop and unfold around the world, employees across industries and sectors are discovering new ways to make the most of their new work environments: home offices.

More specifically, what are learners looking for from training providers, and how can they ameliorate their remote working experience? Findcourses.com’s ongoing learner survey has taken initial stock of the U.S. market. Learning isn’t going anywhere, and providers need to act quickly to reach the newly transformed training market.

In analyzing the results, the survey reveals some key statistics that training providers and employers alike should be aware of. Perhaps most significantly, the survey demonstrates that course type preferences are changing. The responses show that 61 percent of training buyers are more likely to book online training for their employees and 43 percent of individual learners who usually prefer in-person training are now more likely to choose an online course.

Increase Buyer Confidence With Digital Offerings
Training providers who don’t already have online offerings should begin making the switch to digital to increase buyer confidence. In the survey, 71 percent of respondents would feel comfortable booking a professional training course, if it included an online option. Taking advantage of online tools like Zoom or Google Hangouts is a straightforward way to engage employees in remote training.

Whether you’re scrambling to make the switch to virtual, or have had a digitization plan in place since pre-COVID-19, take the time to research and utilize resources for business during the crisis. To keep your professional training business viable, and hosting offerings that buyers are looking for.

Emphasize Learning to Help Employees Acclimatize
We know that training providers have a huge opportunity when it comes to offering online learning, but what will employers and employees gain from e-learning in relation to remote work?

From an employee point-of-view, in an ILX Group Survey, 51 percent of HR professionals reported that e-learning increases employee morale, satisfaction, and longevity. In times of crisis, when employees are more likely to be experiencing personal and professional challenges, implementing an e-learning program will help calm frazzled nerves and demonstrate to your employees that you are continually dedicated to their professional development.

From an operational standpoint, resources from trainingindustry.com reveal two key aspects of e-learning that illustrate its centrality to your business’ success in these uncertain times.

For every $1 invested in e-learning, organizations earn $30 back in productivity; and
72 percent of organizations report that e-learning has improved their business’ competitive edge.

Amongst some tips and tricks for newly remote leaders, John Bruce, CEO of the leadership development company Performex recommends that leaders should “[…] be sure to communicate progress and accomplishments for the team so they gain a sense of achievement and winning.” By implementing an e-learning training program for remote employees, they’ll be able to stay motivated in their roles, and help your business push through the crisis.

Given that 60 percent of survey respondents are more likely to take an online training course in light of COVID-19 — training providers and employers alike should take stock of possibilities for training. For the good of their business’ and employees across industries around the world.