Audio and video podcasts are popular forms of entertainment, but they are also useful corporate communication tools. Many businesses are adopting podcasts to supplement employee newsletters and for internal training resources. Businesses with multiple offices find it particularly useful to use podcasts for training because the same information can be easily disseminated to all employees simultaneously. They can also be accessed at all times, an especially useful feature if offices exist in multiple timezones. (Eliminating or reducing conference call costs.)
The primary advantage of using podcasts versus other types of downloadable audio or video is that the content is automatically fed to subscribers. This means that they don't have to remember to check for it, and it all exists in a central location.
Using Podcasts to Train Employees
Creating and distributing podcasts is easier than ever. In fact, most businesses already have all the hardware and software they need to successfully implement a podcast. Some of the tools you need include:
- A microphone headset
- Audio and/or recording software
- A computer
- A server for storing audio and/or video files
- A system for automatically feeding podcasts to subscribers, such as a simple blog
Of course, the most important part of any training podcast is the content. If you plan to use podcasts for training, it's useful to separate each topic so listeners can easily find the answers to their questions. One of the advantages of using podcasts is that employees can stop and start the training session as needed. If they find a particular segment confusing they can simply go back and watch or listen again.
You can even track how many people listen to each podcast to determine which training topics are most popular. This allows managers to identify the areas where employees struggle, and in which training areas they are most comfortable.
Some of the benefits of using podcasts to train employees include:
- Audio and video content are more dynamic and engaging than print media
- Employees can listen to new and old podcasts at their leisure
- Podcasts can be accessed any time, anywhere
- Offices in different locations all have the same information
- Automatic feeds make it easy to get new content
- Podcasts allow employers to go deeper into individual training topics
- Employees who travel frequently can listen to podcasts on the road
- Workers in different time zones don't have to adjust schedules for training calls
- Businesses save money on training phone calls
MelroseMAC can provide all the hardware and software you need to implement podcasts or any other type of electronic training system. We also provide training services to help you learn how to use the technology you already have. Contact us today to learn more about how MelroseMAC can help you improve employee training.
What training tools do you currently use at your business?
