I previously mentioned the importance of patience when it comes to employee relations, because sometimes people take longer to adapt to changes in our fast-paced industry than we'd like, or they have difficulty mastering the fine points of new products and services we are eager to get to market.
In addition to being patient, there are things business owners and managers can do to help new contractors or employees become productive members of the team and to help them stay abreast of new developments going forward. One of them is to design training programs that take into consideration people's unique learning styles, realizing that a one-size-fits-all training program is as ineffective as a one-size-fits-all product and service bundle for prospective merchant customers.
When it comes to training, keep in mind that researchers have identified the following common learning styles :
That's quite a range of learning styles to consider. Complicating matters, researchers have pointed out that individuals don't necessarily fit neatly into these categories. Plus a person's learning style can change depending on subject matter and environment. The solution, then, is to offer a range of instructional methods so staff members have multiple ways to absorb and put into practice what is required for them to succeed.
Thus, to create an optimal training program, accommodate a range of learning styles. Provide visual learners with charts, diagrams and infographics that show how payment processing works. Offer auditory learners opportunities to participate in group discussions or listen to presentations about new fintech developments. Create hands-on activities or simulations for kinesthetic learners to practice using your suite of products.
Offer training materials and resources in various formats to accommodate different learning preferences. Provide written manuals and online tutorials for reading/writing learners. Conduct webinars or video conferences for visual learners. Incorporate interactive demonstrations and role-playing exercises for kinesthetic learners.
For social learners, encourage people to work together on projects, share knowledge and exchange ideas. Implement peer learning programs where employees can teach and learn from each other in a supportive environment. Offer different types of support, as well, including offering mentors who can provide personalized guidance based on individual learning styles.
Also, as a business leader, be flexible and open-minded in your approach to providing feedback. And, above all, encourage a culture of learning and experimentation where employees feel empowered to explore new ideas and approaches. Do this, and you can create an inclusive, fertile environment that empowers your team to function at their best and contribute to your company's success. 
The Green Sheet Inc. is now a proud affiliate of Bankcard Life, a premier community that provides industry-leading training and resources for payment professionals. Click here for more information.
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