Deskless workers: The importance of digital learning and development
A deskless worker is defined as somebody who does not sit at a desk for at least 80% of their working week. Factory workers, delivery drivers, oil rig engineers, construction workers, waiters, receptionists, teachers, nurses – to name just a few. In fact, the majority of workers are ‘deskless’, a whopping 80% of the workforce. But, in an industry of increasing churn, improving your organisation’s digital capabilities can be the key to improving learning and development which in turn boosts long-term engagement, increased retention and motivation among deskless workers.
Deskless workers have busy schedules. They’re active for much of their workday, maybe they’re laying fibre optic cables to make sure we have the right connectivity, driving our public transportation through the night so we can connect with our friends and loved ones, or making our morning flat white so we can build business connections over skype in a Starbucks. The typical deskless worker might not be able to leave their job for a typical ‘classroom’ style learning intervention. So why not bring the training or learning to your people?
Digital learning no longer means boring eLearning, that everyone rushes to click through. In fact, 70% of deskless workers feel technology can add value to their jobs. Your digital learning can be accessed at any time through devices like smartphones or tablets. Perfect to slot into breaktime, or after a shift, or whilst waiting for a patient or customer. On top of that, 80% of deskless workers in a survey said they prefer short, to-the-point training spaced over time versus longer one-time training events. We know short blasts of digital learning is highly engaging and sets the tone for continuous learning, as it can easily fit into your peoples’ regular schedules. It can also support deskless workers’ flexibility as they can focus on it more when they have less busy periods within their days.
Learning and development on the go makes a difference
At NKD we believe that making the world of work better starts with your people. As organisations, our people are our most important asset and research shows that when we invest in our people the results are rewarding.
Let’s take a look at how crucial digital learning can be for deskless workers:
Taking the right steps to engage deskless workers
Over the last few years, organisations have started to wake up to the importance of digital tools used to train their people and the role it plays in keeping employees engaged, motivated and productive. As the deskless workforce continues grow, so will the demand. Organisations will need to ensure they support their people by investing in their learning and development as the rewards will be beneficial to their bottom line.
Read more about how to engage your deskless workforce here.
Hit the connect button below to explore how we can harness the power of digital learning to engage your employees.