Employee training programs: Types, benefits, examples

Training costs money. Turnover costs more. How much more? According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the total cost of hiring a new employee can be up to four times the departing employee’s salary. That’s why employee training programs are a wise investment in any organization.

From onboarding to upskilling and compliance, training and development are critical to employee growth and company success. The right employee training program helps close skills gaps, increase performance, and prep your team for the future. Whether you’re introducing new hires to company tools or helping current staff grow with employee development plans, consistent training brings a wealth of benefits.

Today’s employee training programs come in many forms. On-the-job training remains the most widely used method, giving employees hands-on learning guided by experienced coworkers. Other types of training include classroom sessions, mentoring, job shadowing, cross-training, and online employee training programs. Many businesses rely on employee training software to deliver flexible learning and track progress. Blended models, which mix digital tools with in-person learning, offer even more ways to keep employees engaged.

In this guide, you’ll learn about the essential types of employee training programs and discover how they can boost workplace safety, employee productivity, and retention.

What are the benefits of employee training programs?

Whether it's bridging critical skills gaps, strengthening soft skills alongside hard skills, or getting new employees comfortable in the workplace, good training goes a long way. With tools like employee training software streamlining the learning and development process, it's easier than ever to see positive results. Here are five significant benefits you can expect:

Improves workplace safety

Employees prevent accidents when they know how to handle equipment safely, follow established safety protocols, and respond effectively to emergencies. Safety training also covers basics such as fire exits and contingency plans for various situations. This is important in any environment, not just high-risk workplaces. Consistent training promotes safe habits, especially from the very beginning, during orientation on day one. 

Increases productivity

Training helps employees develop skills, fill knowledge gaps, and improve their job performance. When you give employees and teams the opportunity to grow, they become more engaged and committed to delivering stronger results. With clear goals and practical, targeted learning, people work more efficiently and with increased confidence. Over time, that adds up to noticeable gains in overall performance.

Improves employee retention

Employee training and development enhance retention by providing employees with a compelling reason to stay. When companies invest in building employee skills, they create a workforce that feels valued, challenged, and more likely to stick around. Yes, job satisfaction is important. But so is keeping the knowledge you’ve already built, reducing onboarding churn, and avoiding the high cost of constant turnover. Strong training helps employees grow with the company instead of seeking greener pastures elsewhere. 

Enhances risk management

Effective risk management starts with awareness. Training helps employees understand how everyday actions—whether in operations, data handling, or communication—carry risk. When leadership reinforces this mindset, employees are more likely to spot issues early, follow proper protocols, and help protect your business. Targeted learning experiences, designed for different learning styles, strengthen compliance, support legal protection, and create a working environment where risk awareness and mitigation become second nature. 

Reduces supervision

Practical training and development build independence. When employees have the right training plan and time to develop their skill sets, they don’t need constant oversight. They make better decisions, solve problems independently, and feel more confident in their roles. That sense of competence lifts morale and frees up managers to focus on leading, not micromanaging. For new employees, a solid training program paired with real-time feedback sets the tone early, encouraging growth and ownership.

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What are the key components of an effective training program for employees?

A great employee training program doesn’t happen by accident. It requires structure, clarity, and a bit of common sense. The right mix of training and development boosts productivity, strengthens your workplace, and improves job satisfaction across the board. These core components will keep your training on track: 

1. Training needs analysis

Start by conducting a training needs analysis to determine what your team needs to learn. Talk to managers, review performance data, and use surveys or assessments to pinpoint skill gaps—both soft skills like communication and leadership, and hard skills tied to the role. Focus on the areas that tie directly to business goals or day-to-day performance issues. The best training solves real problems.

2. Clear learning objectives

If you don’t know what success looks like, how will your team? Every employee training program needs clear learning objectives that spell out exactly what employees should know or be able to do after the training. Align these goals with broader company priorities so the training feels relevant, not random.

Make your objectives SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Then share them with employees up front. Clear targets help guide the training, keep everyone focused, and make it easier to measure what’s working.

3. Training program design and delivery

How you deliver training matters just as much as what you’re teaching. Mix it up. Use workshops, online courses, coaching, or whatever fits your team best. People learn in different ways, so your approach should reflect that.

Keep it engaging with real-world examples, group discussions, or hands-on practice. Time it well so it doesn’t disrupt the workday, and provide employees with the tools and resources they need to continue learning on the job.

4. Evaluation and feedback

You need to know if the training is making a difference. Track results using a mix of performance data, employee feedback, and simple KPIs. Don’t just look at test scores—watch for changes in how people work.

Tools like Rippling’s learning management system (LMS) make it easier to collect feedback and spot what’s working. Use that info to tweak the program, fix what’s not working, and reveal the results to stakeholders.

5. Continuous learning culture

Training shouldn’t end when the program does. Build a culture where learning is part of the job, not a one-time event. Support it with feedback, visible leadership buy-in, and recognition when people put in the effort.

Give employees access to learning platforms, mentorship, or industry events. Celebrate those who take the initiative or help others grow. Most importantly, create space for people to apply what they’ve learned.

15 types of employee training programs you need to know about

Some types of training are industry-specific. However, many programs are useful across various teams, workplaces, and company sizes. These are the ones you’ll see most often, and they form a strong foundation for any comprehensive training strategy:

1. Orientation training 

Orientation training is the first step in welcoming new hires. It’s a one-time event focused on helping employees settle in, complete necessary paperwork, and get familiar with company basics. A well-designed orientation eases first-day nerves, sets expectations, and lays the groundwork for a smooth transition into the team.

Benefits of orientation training:

• Reduces stress and anxiety for new employees

• Sets clear expectations from day one

• Minimizes early mistakes and disruptions

• Boosts engagement and makes new hires feel valued

2. Onboarding training

Onboarding training builds on orientation and continues over weeks or months to help new hires succeed in their roles. It includes job-specific training, goal setting, performance feedback, and cultural integration. A strong onboarding program turns new employees into confident, productive team members who feel connected to the company’s mission.

Benefits of onboarding training:

• Accelerates time-to-productivity with structured support

• Reinforces company culture and performance standards

• Builds confidence and long-term engagement

• Improves retention by promoting a sense of belonging

3. Compliance training

Compliance training enables employees to understand and adhere to the laws, regulations, and company policies relevant to their roles. It’s especially important in highly regulated industries, as it ensures that everyone knows how to navigate both legal requirements and internal standards. Covering topics such as anti-discrimination, workplace safety, and data protection, compliance training reduces risk and reinforces ethical behavior throughout the company.

Benefits of compliance training:

• Lowers the risk of legal violations and financial penalties

• Creates a safer, more respectful workplace culture

• Builds employee confidence and promotes trust in leadership

• Protects your company’s reputation and supports ethical decision-making

4. Safety training

Safety training equips employees with the knowledge to recognize hazards, follow safety protocols, and respond effectively in emergencies. This includes general workplace safety—like fire prevention, lockdown procedures, and emergency exits—as well as OSHA-required training for roles with specific risks. Whether in construction, healthcare, or an office setting, safety training protects employees and helps companies stay compliant with health and safety laws.

Benefits of safety training:

• Reduces accidents and workplace injuries

• Ensures compliance with OSHA and local regulations

• Prepares employees to respond to emergencies

• Fosters a culture of safety and accountability

5. Product training

Product training teaches employees about what your company sells, including how it works, why it matters, and how to talk about it confidently. It’s essential training for anyone who touches the product, from sales and support to marketing and operations. When your team understands the ins and outs of your offerings, they’re better equipped to help customers, answer questions, and work together more effectively.

Benefits of product training:

• Improves customer experience with faster, more accurate support

• Increases sales by helping employees communicate product value

• Boosts confidence and performance across roles

• Ensures consistency, compliance, and up-to-date knowledge

6. Soft skills training

Soft skills training focuses on the interpersonal and emotional skills that help employees work better together and lead more effectively. It covers essentials like communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. These are the skills that support collaboration, increase confidence, and improve how teams respond to change. 

Benefits of soft skills training:

• Strengthens teamwork, communication, and cross-functional collaboration

• Builds resilience and adaptability in fast-changing environments

• Boosts employee confidence, leadership, and job satisfaction

• Improves problem-solving, customer service, and overall culture

7. Hard skills training

Hard skills training helps employees develop the technical skills necessary to perform their jobs effectively. That might mean learning new software, using equipment, or following industry-specific procedures with the goal of working efficiently, accurately, and with confidence.

Benefits of hard skills training:

• Helps employees work faster and make fewer errors

• Improves the quality and consistency of work

• Gets new employees up to speed more quickly

• Reduces compliance risks and promotes a safer workplace

8. QA (Quality Assurance) training

Quality assurance training helps your employees maintain high work standards, identify potential problems, and fix things before problems get out of hand. It emphasizes consistency, attention to detail, and accountability. 

Benefits of quality assurance training:

• Promotes consistent product or service quality

• Increases customer satisfaction and long-term loyalty

• Improves efficiency by reducing errors and rework

• Helps prevent compliance issues and costly mistakes

9. Management training

Management training helps new and experienced managers build the skills they need to lead teams with confidence. It covers everything from setting clear goals and giving feedback to resolving conflict and guiding team performance. Good managers are worth their weight in gold. They oversee smooth operations, shape your corporate culture, boost your bottom line, and lift your team. 

Benefits of management training:

• Strengthens leadership, decision-making, and communication abilities

• Helps managers lead more efficient, productive teams

• Prepares managers to handle change, challenges, and conflict

• Reinforces accountability in the workplace

10. Shadow training

Shadow training gives employees a chance to learn by watching. Whether it’s a new hire learning the ropes of their role or a current employee dipping their toe into a different department, shadowing provides a real-time look at how people get their job done. 

Benefits of shadow training:

• Speeds up onboarding by showing how work is done

• Builds practical skills through observation

• Supports career development

• Encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing

11. Ethics training

Ethics training helps employees understand your company’s values, code of conduct, and expectations around integrity. It covers real-world topics like conflicts of interest, bribery, and responsible decision-making. The goal is to help employees do the right thing.

Benefits of ethics training:

• Promotes ethical behavior in day-to-day decisions

• Reduces the risk of misconduct, fraud, and legal issues

• Helps employees handle ethical dilemmas with confidence

• Supports compliance by connecting policy with their choices

12. Career development and upskilling training

Career development and upskilling training help employees grow within the company while building the skills your business needs to stay competitive. Whether through formal programs or ongoing learning opportunities, this training shows employees they have a future with you.

Benefits of career development and upskilling training:

• Builds a more agile, future-ready workforce

• Increases employee motivation, engagement, and retention

• Prepares high-potential staff for leadership and internal mobility

• Supports long-term business goals through continuous learning

13. Data privacy and protection training

Data privacy and protection training teaches employees how to handle sensitive information responsibly. It covers the basics of safeguarding personal and company data, as well as the legal requirements under privacy laws. When employees understand what’s at stake, they’re more likely to follow best practices, avoid risky behavior, and protect your organization from breaches and penalties.

Benefits of data privacy and protection training:

• Reduces the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access

• Helps employees comply with privacy laws and internal policies

• Builds trust with clients, customers, and stakeholders

• Strengthens overall data security across your organization

14. Cybersecurity awareness training

Cybersecurity awareness training helps employees recognize and respond to online threats that could put your business at risk. It focuses on practical scenarios—like spotting phishing emails, avoiding suspicious links, and reporting unusual activity. This training reinforces everyday habits that strengthen your company’s defenses and empowers employees to take action when something doesn’t seem right.

Benefits of cybersecurity awareness training:

• Reduces the risk of cyber attacks caused by human error

• Helps employees identify and report potential threats early

• Strengthens company-wide security practices and vigilance

• Protects critical systems, networks, and digital assets

15. HIPAA training

HIPAA (the U.S. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) training is essential for healthcare organizations that handle patient data. It ensures employees understand how to protect sensitive health information, maintain confidentiality, and follow the procedures required by law. Regular training helps prevent unauthorized access and ensures your company remains compliant with HIPAA regulations.

Benefits of HIPAA training:

• Supports compliance with federal healthcare privacy laws

• Reduces the risk of costly violations and data breaches

• Helps protect patient privacy and build trust

• Strengthens your company’s credibility and reputation

4 examples of successful employee training programs

The most effective training programs meet your organization’s unique needs, boost employee performance, and encourage long-term loyalty. Here are four real-world examples of programs that work.  

Amazon – AWS Intelligence Initiative

The AWS Intelligence Initiative is a paid, full-time training and rotation program designed to build top engineering talent for Amazon’s secure cloud environments. Participants get hands-on technical training, real project experience, and job rotations—all while earning a salary. The program focuses on developing both technical and leadership skills, preparing graduates for high-impact roles supporting government and mission-critical clients.

Amazon - Amazon AWS Grow Our Own Talent

AWS Grow Our Own Talent is a paid, full-time training program that helps people—from students and recent grads to current employees and career changers—launch a career in cloud technology. The program begins with 12 weeks of hands-on training, followed by extended on-the-job experience inside AWS data centers. No prior tech experience or college degree is needed. Participants build real-world skills, work alongside experienced teams, and are welcomed into an inclusive, fast-paced environment.

Marriott International - Voyage Leadership Development Program

The Voyage Leadership Development Program is Marriott’s fast-track, post-grad program for launching a management career in hospitality. Over the course of 12 months, participants step into salaried manager roles at Marriott hotels, gaining hands-on leadership experience, mentorship, and cross-department exposure. Open to recent college grads, the program offers full benefits, relocation support, and a clear path to advancement.

Bank of America - Manager Development Program

Bank of America’s Manager Development Program, launched in 2021, builds leadership skills through a curriculum based on eight core manager expectations shaped by employee feedback. It covers key areas such as team leadership, business outcomes, risk management, and financial stewardship, culminating in a capstone project that applies the learned concepts. Over two-thirds of managers have completed the program, supported by ongoing Manager Excellence sessions and peer networking. In 2024, the program added an Emotional Wellness module to help managers foster well-being for themselves and their teams.

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4 best practices for creating successful employee training programs

There’s no universal template for training. What works for one team might fall flat with another. But the strongest programs have a few things in common: they solve real problems, support business goals, and make it easy for employees to learn and apply new skills. These five best practices will help you design training that delivers lasting impact:

1. Start small

Rolling out new training can seem overwhelming. Start with a pilot project in one team or department. It’s a low-risk way to test your content, delivery format, and timing. You’ll catch any issues early, gather honest feedback, and make adjustments while the stakes are still low. A focused launch also helps you build support from the ground up, especially when early participants see the value in your pilot training program.

2. Create interactive content

Skip the dry, dull, and seemingly endless slideshow. If training feels like a chore, people will tune out fast. Build content that pulls employees in. Use simulations, branching scenarios, quizzes, and decision-based exercises to mirror real-world situations. Add short videos or click-through modules to break up longer sessions and keep people engaged. When employees interact with the material instead of passively watching or reading (and drifting off), they’re more likely to remember it. 

3. Diversify training types

People absorb information in different ways, so it pays to mix up your approach. Some employees learn best in a group setting, while others prefer one-on-one coaching or time to work through material independently. Combine individual training, group instruction, and self-paced learning to support different learning styles. Add structure with lectures and demonstrations, and build practical skills through role play, simulations, and hands-on activities. You can also incorporate computer-based training for flexibility across teams and locations.

4. Measure the outcomes

If you’re not measuring impact, how do you know how your training is working? Start by setting clear goals tied to actual results, like increasing productivity, reducing turnover, or shortening onboarding time for new hires. Define what success looks like, then track it. Use pre- and post-training assessments, surveys, and performance metrics to get a complete picture of what’s working and what needs to change. Look at both the short-term results and how well the training holds up over time. Share your findings with managers, HR, and leadership to keep everyone on the same page.

What is the best training platform for employees?

The best training platform is the one that meets your needs and delivers the desired results. Many companies turn to LMS platforms and eLearning tools because they’re flexible, cost-effective, and easy to scale. However, with so many options available, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. We looked at the top platforms to see how they compare on features, usability, and performance. These are the ones that stood out the most.

1. Rippling LMS

Rippling is a unified HR platform with a built-in learning management system that helps companies manage employee training at scale. It offers automated course assignments based on employee attributes, such as role or location, a library of pre-built compliance courses, and the ability to upload custom SCORM content. Mobile-friendly access and built-in reporting tools make it easy to manage training across departments. Rippling also integrates with Go1, the world’s largest content aggregator, enabling companies to expand their content library.

Key features:

• Seamlessly connects training with other HR and IT workflows

• Automatically assigns state- or country-specific training based on employee location changes or onboarding

• Gives managers full control over training content with SCORM support

• Scales easily as teams grow or requirements change

• Keeps training centralized inside one platform instead of juggling multiple tools

2. TalentLMS

TalentLMS is an easy-to-use, cloud-based learning management system designed to help organizations train their employees, partners, and customers. It allows businesses to create and deliver interactive courses quickly, track learner progress, and boost overall training engagement. 

Key features:

• Intuitive course authoring tools with built-in AI-powered content creation

• Extensive customization options to match your branding

• Gamification elements, including points, badges, and leaderboards, to boost motivation

• Detailed reporting tools to monitor learner progress and measure training impact

3. Udemy 

Udemy is an online learning platform with a large library of on-demand courses for personal and professional growth. Its Udemy Business offering gives companies a full-featured LMS to upskill employees across a range of topics.

Key features:

• Extensive course library of courses across business, tech, wellness, and more

• International collection features courses in 15+ languages

• Custom learning paths combining Udemy courses with company-specific content

• Cohort-based programs with live sessions and discussion forums to support interactive leadership development

4. Workday

Workday’s cloud-based LMS is part of its larger human capital management (HCM) platform. The system aims to make learning an integral part of the employee experience and support skill development across organizations. It offers built-in compliance tracking, learning that’s integrated into daily workflows, and a unified platform for internal and external learners. 

Key features:

• Tailored learning suggestions based on employee interests, attributes, and skills data

• Blended learning support with content like videos, quizzes, and peer-created lessons.

• Learning campaigns and tailored programs for key moments like onboarding and promotions.

• Workday Content Cloud centralizes and tracks content from external providers.

5. Dayforce

Dayforce’s cloud-based LMS helps organizations align employee development with their broader HCM strategy. In addition to learning, Dayforce offers comprehensive tools for payroll, HR, benefits, recruiting, and talent management. It supports self-directed learning, compliance tracking, and the creation of custom content.

Key features:

• Integrates learning across the employee lifecycle

• AI-driven content recommendations

• Combines compliance training with modern learning tools

• Connects with career planning and talent management systems

How Rippling can streamline your online employee training 

When it comes to top employee training software, Rippling shines. Rippling LMS software is an intuitive yet powerful tool that streamlines the management of learning programs for businesses of all sizes.

Rippling makes it fast and easy to create courses with its visual drag-and-drop authoring tool. You can upload existing training materials, such as videos, slides, and quizzes, or choose from a pre-built content library on core topics, including professional skills and compliance. This allows you to create custom learning paths tailored to different positions and experience levels.

Rippling automatically tracks employees' training progress, sends reminders to users, and records course completions on their profiles. Its reporting features enable monitoring of course enrollment, identification of knowledge gaps, and measurement of training initiative ROI.

Beyond its robust feature set as an LMS, Rippling stands out for its ability to integrate employee training with the core HR and IT processes it already streamlines. It can automatically trigger onboarding tasks and course enrollments for new hires.

Looking to optimize your employee training programs? These comprehensive features and seamless integrations make Rippling a top choice for organizations aiming to do just that.

Employee training programs FAQs

What is employee training and development?

Employee training and development means giving your team the skills, knowledge, and support they need to succeed and grow. Good training programs build confidence, sharpen everyday employee skills, and help people grow in their roles. They also help close skills gaps and keep your workforce ready to adapt. From onboarding to compliance training, strong programs raise productivity, keep morale up, and make it more likely your best people will stay. Over time, it creates a stronger, more capable team.

How do you create an employee training program?

First, assess your business goals and identify the key skills your team needs to reach them. Once you’ve determined skills gaps or areas prime for upskilling, put together a training plan. Ensure that the training meets your goals while being both beneficial and easily accessible. Consider internal or external learning. It could be in the form of hands-on sessions, workshops, or online learning. Explain why you’re offering the training and encourage participation. Keep an eye on results and pivot as needed. 

What is the most common type of employee training?

Orientation training is the most common type of employee training, as it gets new hires up to speed on company policies, culture, and job basics, preparing them to succeed from the start. Every business relies on orientation training to ensure employees feel welcome, informed, and ready to contribute.

How do you identify the training needs of employees? 

Focus on pinpointing specific skill gaps and performance issues. Here’s how: 

• Review recent performance data to identify areas where employees consistently encounter roadblocks.

• Try quick surveys or informal check-ins to see where employees and managers might be facing challenges or missing key info.

• Monitor day-to-day work for recurring mistakes or inefficiencies.

• Review business priorities and upcoming changes to determine what new skills or knowledge will be needed.

• Focus on needs that have a direct impact on business goals or customer satisfaction.

• Remember to keep your assessment simple and actionable.