S13 E11: Smells Like Money Podcast: Training is the Secret for Retaining

In this episode of the DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money podcast, host Suzan Chin-Taylor continues her conversation with Danielle Wernher of Upskilled Consulting. After discussing the importance of hiring great talent in the previous episode, the focus shifts to the critical role of training programs in retaining that talent. Danielle shares her expert advice on how to build and structure an effective training program that not only supports the growth of your team but can also open doors to financial benefits, such as programs designed for veterans.

Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Danielle Wernert

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Key Discussion Points:

Building a Structured Training Program: Danielle outlines the key components of a technician training program and stresses that it doesn’t have to mirror someone else’s system. The program should meet the unique needs of your business while focusing on areas like onboarding, continued development, and technical skills.
Veteran Education Program: Danielle highlights the benefits of the Veterans Program, which can help offset training costs for qualifying veterans. She offers a transparent look at the application process, including how to work with your state’s approving agency to meet the necessary requirements.
The Value of Consistency in Training: Danielle discusses the impact of inconsistent training across different employees and how a structured program helps ensure every new hire receives the same high-quality training. This consistency is vital for maintaining high standards and for succession planning.
How Training Impacts Succession Planning and Business Value: Having a structured training program increases the value of your business, making it more attractive to potential buyers, especially in cases where you’re looking to sell or retire. This ensures that the knowledge and intellectual property you’ve built are retained, even as employees transition out.
Selecting the Right Trainers: It’s not just about having a training program in place; it’s also about selecting the right individuals to mentor and train new hires. Danielle emphasizes the importance of choosing trainers who have the right skill set for both technical expertise and soft skills, crucial for effective mentorship.
Soft Skills for Managers: One of the most common challenges businesses face is promoting technicians into managerial roles without providing them with the necessary soft skills training. Danielle talks about her 125-page workbook designed to equip new managers with the tools they need to succeed and how businesses can integrate this training into their development programs.

Actionable Tips:

Don’t get overwhelmed by the idea of creating a training program. Start small and build it over time.
Take advantage of workforce development programs like the Veterans Program to help fund your training efforts.
Ensure your trainers are equipped with the skills needed to mentor and develop new employees effectively.

Consider the long-term benefits of a structured training program, especially when planning for succession.

Resources Mentioned:

Upskilled Consulting
Veterans Education Program (contact your state approving agency for details)

Contact Information:

Danielle Wernert, UpSkilled Consulting

Websites: upskilledconsulting.com

Email: danielle@upskilledconsulting.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danielle-wernert

Conclusion:

In this episode, Suzanne Chin-Taylor and Danielle Wernher stress the importance of structured training programs in workforce development, ensuring business growth and consistent performance. Investing in training not only enhances skills but also prepares employees for future leadership roles.

💡 Until next time—keep innovating, stay strategic, and keep it flowing! 🚀

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Connect with Suzan Chin-Taylor, host of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast:

Website: www.creativeraven.com | https://thetuitgroup.com/

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