Cross-Training - Not Your Average Workplace Exercise

by Elodie Doubell | May 16, 2023 | Human Resources

Cross-training is about learning how to do more than one specific job in order to become professionally well-rounded.

Cross-training enables a staff member (the “visiting staff member”) to learn how to execute specific tasks by working with another staff member (the “receiving staff member”) for a set period of time. During cross-training, the receiving staff member teaches the visiting staff member about specific tasks related to their functions. Depending on the nature of the work, the visiting staff member will have the opportunity to actually carry out some of these tasks under the guidance of the receiving staff member. 

For example, a customer service rep might be cross-trained with customer support to interchange responsibilities.

HR TIP: Cross-training allows the “visiting” staff member to be trained and perform specific functions related to a particular job while Job Shadowing allows the employee to gain knowledge and understating about the responsibilities and tasks in a particular job.

BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING IN CROSS-TRAINING:

The goal of cross-training in business is to increase the overall productivity of an organization by ensuring that employees can perform multiple tasks and fill in for other team members when they are sick or leave the organization at short notice. It’s a win-win!

When implementing cross-training you need to fully understand the purpose and role of each position as well as the skills required and needs of each employee. 

Let us know if you would like to try this in your business!