Corporate Training in the Telecom Industry

Telecom majors whenever faced with the question of corporate training have a lot of questions. First and foremost why corporate training and then what will be the content and the cost. These are questions to be answered by corporate training houses themselves in order quantify what the return on investment will be in relation to the training classes. The telecom industry is one where there is always need for soft skills for its call centre staff and a standardized sales force. These are in order to have satisfied clientele, a dominant market share and to get ample returns on investment. As part of corporate training it is imperative that the relevant staff is trained in new products and software launches so that marketing associates are able to realign their sales and distribution channels and increase their productivity levels. In order for the training to be effective it must be timely, and cost efficientrnOne of the first things a corporate training institute must endeavor is to list out the core competencies and standards required for the various domains in the telecom industry and then measure existing people’s capacities and capabilities. This can then be further linked to enhance the performance parameters of personnel that have a direct bearing on productivity. Corporate training companies in India must then deliberate how much training should be on the job and how should be on site and how much classroom based. Although in-house training may be the most cost effective, time and resource often play as roadblocks. The use of instructor-led courses for classroom based corporate training programs seem an effective option, along with this, web based courses should also be pursued. On-site training has the distinct advantage of training being made available as per the convenience of trainees; plus the trainees can also undertake immediate emergency work if necessary. Web based content can be updated by instructors who set the course design. After a written test a certificate of participation with grading would be of utmost use to the company and the trainees themselves. The course has to set according to the brand perception of the company in order to keep synergy. The self study method is also an option, provided the trainer is accessible at all times during the time of study. It is of vital importance that the sales field team acquires a standardized sales and distribution process manual. This manual can be made only after the corporate trainers do a field study themselves to study the various marketing processes of the company and its affiliates. Once this is done, the manual can be prepared with the objective of standardization. This manual will cover the important aspects of distribution network expansion, dealer and retailer management, reports and review and help standardize all work efforts. Corporate training programs imparted to DSAs is bound to increase sales acquisitions, while effective training of marketing associates will enhance productivity levels.