What are the variables that might effect the learning curve of employees or workers?

Question

If you know the equation that ties the variables together, please post it.

Answer 1

As far as tying it together I can't help you there. Managers, supervisors or leaders in general have the most effect. Especially if they are part of the hiring process and if they did their job during the interview process. And for current employees do leaders allow information to flow freely? Hope this helps even though it's rather vague.

Answer 2

The most telling variable is the instructor of the employee. That instructor makes all the difference in the world. If you have an impatient instructor, he will intimidate employees, create an enemy, leave the employee basically clueless, and blame the employee. I was training an old crusty set in his ways employee in a new activity. He had been in the company for 15 years or so. I showed him how to place his hands and how to do the activity. He began to do the activity by placing his hands contrary to the way I showed him. When I mentioned that to him, he told me that he felt his way was better. I backed off and let him learn the hard way. Without one more word from me, he discovered that the only way it worked was to put his hands exactly as I had shown him. So in short order, he was doing the activity correctly. What I did was respect him and not treat him like a child. Now the next phase of his training on this activity is extremely important. The more he did the activity, the better he got at it. Over several days I oversaw him while in the activity. I told him he was ready to do it alone. He got nervous and wanted me to still be there. I said I would not leave him alone until he was comfortable in the activity. A few days later, he told me that he was ready to do it alone. The products he produced from that activity were at the same high level of quality as my products. Now you substitute an arrogant, impatient trainer in there, and do you think the employee would be as good in that activity? Happy employees produce better products. Morale is too often ignored. There are some capable supervisors who can't teach a bit. A teacher has to understand that at one time he didn't know how to do it either. He needs to teach at the level the student needs without intimidation or threats or rolling the eyes or whatever these types do.

Answer 3

You know what? I have been in management positons most of my life--there are many--you can't just lean your head to the left with employees--you have to lean it to the right also.
It's give and take on both parts. I have learned from them as well as they have learned from me. Patience is a virtue--you give them the tools--work with them--listen to them vs the same. It's teamwork--incentives are good only to a certain extent--then they become old. You have maintain good communication on all levels--and not become involved with them on a personal level.
Learn and learn from.