We can continue to build and deliver training material relevant to supporting sanitation in the food and beverage markets, but studies suggest that only 10-25% of training in this country is effective. Identifying a methodology to deliver effective instruction to our teams and customers that is understood, remembered and utilized should be prioritized.
Why do so many training programs fail? Some reasons include:
- A one-and-done mind set
- Turnover
- No clear path forward for retrieval and refresher activities
- Lack of management expertise, thus lack of follow-up coaching
- Limited intent and senior leadership involvement
- Limited commitment to the department
- Material and delivery
Before asking the question, "is training important to you and your company?", we must first ask "is sanitation important?" Of course, it should be, right? Safe food begins with an aggressive, effective sanitation program. This means we need staff with expertise to conduct these tasks consistently shift-after-shift, day-after-day. Metrics support the organizations who realistically address and fund prevention and appraisal measures. With so many current constraints, how can we make this all work?
Labor shortages and higher turnover rates have not helped. Many have accepted things as they are, resorting back to the status quo with training as the check-the-box audit requirement. This doesn't help our industry. If the consumer is truly number 1, we need to be brave, step up and say enough-is-enough. Time to walk-the-talk. Things need to change, including the industry culture. GTSR (Gain, Train, Sustain, Retain) is about addressing the root cause, alignment, planning, transparency, building a solid partnership from the top down and over-communicating. It isn't about feel-good conversations. it is about a reality check, having tough discussions, and challenging ourselves to do better for the sake of our customers and our families.
Raising the bar on sanitation must happen to address the flurry of recalls the industry is experiencing. It begins with prioritizing our employees. GTSR looks at current business conditions and tackles the why's of ineffective training. The program uses the 6R formula to evolve and support people. The 6R's are the guiding principles of GTSR.
Having a pre-requisite partner with the intent and conviction to help you improve your bottom line by putting your people first is where it all begins. We know that 75% of training is ineffective. With so much at stake, isn't it time for a change? GTSR, get on board and let's do better together.