Many can benefit from on the job training programs. For example, a person starting their career may need more time or money for a four-year college degree. A current junior-level employee with a few years of work experience may need to learn new skills to advance.
On the job training programs help individuals gain skills and work experience without needing to leave the workforce. They also usually pay you for your work while you learn from professionals in your industry.
Overall, on the job training programs can help:
- Current employees upskill and reskill to obtain promotions
- College-aged individuals get the education they need without dealing with high tuition costs or years of school
- Employers train workers with the specific skills they need.
A job training program is a viable alternative to college. It can help you qualify for a high-salary job in little to no time or cost. Read on to learn about types of on the job training programs, how to find them, and more.
What are on the job training programs?
On the job training is when a company trains a person for a role while paying them for their work. The individual acquires experience on the job and learns how to handle real-life work scenarios. In most cases, they learn from other professionals in their field. There are several types of job training programs, including:
- Apprenticeships
- Internships
- Mentoring
- Coaching
- Shadowing
- Planned progression
- Job rotation
- Understudy programs
Why on the job training matters
Effective on the job training programs are beneficial for companies and workers. Companies recruit talent for in-demand skills. Workers find companies that invest in their career growth. Let’s take a closer look at why on the job training programs matter.
1. College is not accessible to everyone
For many young people, college is unattainable. They’ve seen how college graduates with student loan debt(opens new window) have had to delay or give up significant life milestones like home ownership(opens new window).
Young people question whether a four-year degree is worth taking on student loans that could put them in a financial bind for years. The average cost of college is $35,551 per year(opens new window), rising each year. Four years can cost more than $142,000. As the cost increases, many are reconsidering the value of a college degree. According to the Economic Policy Institute(opens new window), approximately two-thirds of adults have less than a four-year degree.
College is one of many paths to a high-paying job, but there are others. For some, the high college tuition isn’t the only reason to explore other options.
2. College is not ideal for building work experience
College isn’t an ideal learning environment for every person or career. For example, there aren’t many opportunities to learn on the job and gain work experience. On the job experience is one of the main factors employers look at when hiring.
Many college graduates feel unprepared to enter the workforce because they need more on the job experience. In a 2022 employability survey(opens new window), 49% of recent college graduates didn’t apply for an entry-level job because they didn’t feel qualified enough.
With an on the job training program, you can gain the skills and experience you need in a matter of months. Many, like Multiverse’s tech apprenticeships, pay you while you learn. On the job training programs give new and seasoned workers hands-on learning experiences. Workers can learn from professionals in their field and decide if their chosen career path is right for them.
3. On the job training fills skills gaps
Companies still need skilled workers, but you don’t have to go to college to be successful in your career. Many companies disregard college education requirements to fill talent gaps for in-demand skills.
For example, many companies open software engineering and data science roles to anyone who can demonstrate their skills or eagerness to learn. Software Engineers and Data Scientists are in high demand, and companies are widening their pool of qualified candidates.
Job training programs help companies fill roles where there aren’t enough skilled workers to meet hiring demands. A 2021 survey(opens new window) shows 87% of companies worldwide have or anticipate skills gaps in a few years. Individuals can complete job training programs to acquire in-demand skills and earn high salaries while learning.
4. Job training is effective
Many research studies and use cases have shown that on the job training programs are effective. For example, one study(opens new window) found that programs that focus on in-demand skills improve participants’ earning potential and employment opportunities. Job training programs have also been linked to better job satisfaction, productivity, and engagement.
Types of on the job training
There are many types of on the job training programs. To help you decide which on the job training program is right for you, here are the most common types and their benefits.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are paid training programs where you learn and develop the skills you need for a profession. In the U.S, they are often associated with trade jobs, but tech apprenticeships are becoming more popular.
Multiverse offers paid business and tech apprenticeships. They are tuition-free, on the job training programs. There are programs for data science, data analytics, software engineering, digital marketing, and more.
Benefits
- Earn wages while enrolled in your apprenticeship.
- Get on the job training from experts in your industry.
- Avoid tuition costs because you don’t need a college degree to enter an apprenticeship program.
Drawbacks
- Apprenticeship programs can be competitive and have specific requirements to be eligible.
Internships
An internship is a temporary, short-term work placement. Participants usually work at organizations to gain hands-on professional experience. However, internships can be paid or unpaid. You could work for three to six months without compensation for your time or contributions. Many students apply for internships to earn college credit and network with professionals.
Benefits
- Internships can sometimes lead to job offers. The organization you intern for might hire you if you demonstrate competency and they have an open role.
- Some internships are paid, so you can earn a wage while learning. However, paid interns earn less than apprentices—with some exceptions for investment banking and engineering.
Drawbacks
- Many internships are unpaid, so you could be working without receiving compensation.
- The intern experience depends on the organization.
- Some companies don’t consider internships and professional work experience when hiring.
Company training programs
Company training programs come in different forms. Overall, their purpose is to train employees on the skills and abilities they need to succeed on the job. Some examples include continuous learning, upskilling, and reskilling.
Some training programs focus on hard skills, such as learning a new programming language or getting certified in a tool like Hubspot. Other programs focus on soft skills, such as leadership training.
Benefits
- You can acquire or strengthen the skills needed to be eligible for a new role or promotion.
- The company you work for provides the training and development free of cost.
Drawbacks
- Completing a company training program does not guarantee a promotion.
- Determining which skills to focus on or find the time to learn can be challenging.
Mentorship or coaching
Mentorship and coaching activities are not as structured as conventional job training programs. For one, there are many ways that you can get mentorship or coaching.
An employer may pair a newer employee (mentee) with one that has been at the company for a few years (mentor). You may seek one out by joining professional groups or mentoring platforms.
Most mentors and coaches focus on personal development and career advancement. They can help you network by providing introductions to other professionals.
Benefits
- You get one-on-one attention from your mentor or coach.
- A mentor at your place of work may have first-hand knowledge of what opportunities for advancement are available.
Drawbacks
- Scheduling a meeting time with your mentor or coach can be difficult if they are in high demand.
- Finding a mentor or coach whose interests or personality align with yours can be challenging.
- You may have to pay a fee if you use a platform to find a coach or mentor.
How to find and apply to on the job training programs
Now that you know a few job training programs, discover how to find and apply for them. Here are four tips to help you identify the best programs for you.
1. List your interests and skills
Create a list of all your interests and skills. For example, you might look into UX design training programs if you like to create digital art. Then, when searching for job training programs, compare the program requirements to what you jotted down on your list.
Your list of interests and skills can help you identify three to four specific jobs or programs to pursue. However, if you are still trying to decide what career is right, here are some tips.
- Think about skills you have that employers might want
- Research in-demand careers and job outlooks
- Watch “Day in the Life” YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram videos for different professions
- Consider your cost of living and note your desired salary range
- Take an online personality or career assessment
2. Identify your training or experience gaps
Once you have your list of potential career paths, review open job listings for them. For example, if web development is on your list, you’d search “web developer jobs”. Most job descriptions include skills, tools, and qualities for the role.
Review 10-15 job descriptions at different companies and compile a list of the qualifications that appear several times. This list will serve as a roadmap for your learning and will help you identify gaps in your knowledge.
3. Search for on the job training programs
Now that you have a list of skills and tools you need for your career search for on the job training programs. Look for an on the job training program that will close your training or experience gaps. Then, compare your list to the programs' curriculum to find the best fit for you.
Here are other factors to consider when deciding on the best job training program for your career.
- Program length and level of commitment - When does training start and how long does it take to complete?
- Certification or accreditation - Does your chosen career require certification, and does the training program offer it?
- Alum stories - What was the experience like for past participants? Did they land a job in their field after completing the program?
- Cost - Does the job training program charge a fee, or is it free? Do companies pay you during training?
4. Apply for a paid apprenticeship
Paid apprenticeships are among the best types of on the job training programs. Apprentices learn from experienced professionals while building work experience and getting paid.
As a Multiverse apprentice, you earn a competitive salary while you learn on the job. We facilitate apprenticeship programs that provide hands-on practical learning experiences. Unlike college or bootcamps, our apprenticeships don’t have a tuition fee.
The first step is to apply for a paid Multiverse apprenticeship(opens new window). You must be 18 or older with a high school diploma, GED, or associate's degree to be eligible. You’ll create a profile of your skills, traits, and experiences during the application process. Next, we’ll get to know you and your goals for your future. Then, we’ll help you land a paid apprenticeship at a top company.
Team Multiverse
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