Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
A specifi c type of on-the-job training is the apprenticeship. An
apprenticeship
is when
a new employee works with a more experienced person, and learns under that person's direc-
tion over a period of time. This can be of great help in jobs requiring greater skills. Many
agribusiness fi rms train salespeople, skilled operators, and managers by means of this
system.
Formal in-house training
In larger fi rms, there is often a full-time training staff. Managers of smaller agribusiness
fi rms may think they have fewer options for
formal internal training and development
.
However, many more training opportunities are available to all sizes of fi rms today, if man-
agers will just take the time to seek them out. For example, such training programs are pro-
vided by suppliers, trade associations, consultants, manufacturers, and schools or universities.
Online courses, DVDs, videotapes, fi lms, slide programs, audiotapes, correspondence
courses, and programmed learning kits are but a few of the options available to all agribusi-
ness managers for enriching their training programs.
Training on every conceivable topic, from fi nancial management to trimming a head of
lettuce, is available in some form. Suppliers, trade associations, and extension service per-
sonnel at the nearest land-grant university can help the trainer locate the latest and best train-
ing aides. Committee or staff meetings can provide a convenient and fertile ground for
Plate 17.2
Man and son in a hog barn
Guiding new employees through on-the-job training that enables them to experience the nuances
of a new job can be both productive and rewarding. Photo courtesy of USDA Natural Resources
Conservation Service.
