Workers remember what they see: Training that works for the younger generation

Fact: When people hear info, they’ll typically remember only 10% of it three days later.

Add one or more images to a presentation though, and most folks will remember about 65% of the info they hear, even a few weeks later.

Bottom line: It doesn’t necessarily matter if you’re a captivating speaker or the info you’re presenting is interesting to the majority of people.

As long as you use some visuals whenever possible, they’re more likely to retain the info you give them.

Plenty of ways to make it visual

Here are three ways you can make visuals work for you, whether you’re talking to two staffers or a roomful of people:

1. Download images of the process or project you’re talking about. This may not always be easy, but it can be as simple as taking a screenshot of the program or file people are working on.

You can show them the image or images on a smartboard, laptop, tablet, etc. Or take the old-fashioned step of making printouts (preferably in color for maximum retention) and passing them out.

2. Have the meeting where they’ll get the message, if possible. For example, if you’re having a meeting about company wellness and fitness initiatives, consider gathering people around fitness equipment inside your building. If you don’t have a gym, move it outside to where people take walks.

People will associate the things they see with the message you’re delivering – and they’ll remember it. Sure they might think it’s a little cheesy. That’s OK – as long as it’s memorable.

3. Does your presentation involve feedback from customers or clients? Then share written notes or images from stakeholders.

It can be as simple as showing comments or pictures left on a social media outlet. Even printouts of a customer’s email – whether positive or negative – will make an impression and reinforce the points of your talk.

Proof that hands-on instruction matters more than ever

Your company may need to bump up training for the younger generation entering the workforce. Recent college graduates learned remotely during COVID and missed out on hands-on training they desperately need in the workforce.

Consider this recent Wall Street Journal article about engineering graduates who lack crucial skills. These are the people who’ll be responsible for maintaining and rebuilding the bridges and roads we all depend on, soon enough.

A key point: Employers may want to focus less on job candidates’ skillsets and instead hone in on applicants who demonstrate a willingness to learn and hustle if given the chance.