No substitute for the real thing

Workers learn more from on-the-job training than by attending courses or reading books, according to a new employment guide published yesterday.

The Institute of Personnel and Development said training conducted by a manager, supervisor or colleague was vital in developing skills and improving an organisation's performance.

But policy adviser Mike Cannell said on-the-job training should be taken more seriously by employers.

"Too many companies allow on-the-job training to be carried out in a way which does not make the most of its potential, despite the fact that it can be an extremely cost-effective resource," he said.