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AI, Soft Skills, and the Future of Training

Ep. 33: AI, Soft Skills, and the Future of Training: A New Era at IST

In this episode of Outside-IN, Jay LaFont, Senior National Director of Human Resources, helps us explore how IST is revolutionizing employee training and development to meet the demands of a rapidly changing work environment. From the PACE Program, which transforms hospitality workers into office service professionals, to the SMART Program designed to develop crucial leadership soft skills, IST is committed to fostering growth from within. With insights into their innovative use of AI in training and a focus on personalized development, this conversation highlights why continuous learning is key to both employee satisfaction and business success. Tune in to discover how IST's cutting-edge approach is shaping the future of workforce development.

  • Episode Highlights

    Learn More about: Beyond Resumes: Connecting Candidates to Careers | IST’s New Partnership with PaYS (Partnership for Your Success) | Rethinking How We Recruit | Supporting Our Military Community with PaYS | Implementing Success with IST in Nine Steps


    Key Takeaways: 


    IST's Approach to Employee Training: IST emphasizes the importance of continuous training to ensure employees stay relevant in a rapidly changing work environment, driven by factors like AI and the need to "do more with less." Training helps employees develop professionally while enhancing the quality of service provided to clients.


    The PACE Program: The PACE Program (Providing Awesome Client Experiences) focuses on training employees to adapt to office environments. It covers punctuality, professionalism, client interaction, and how to maintain a friendly yet professional demeanor. This program ensures new employees are prepared to meet the company's expectations early in their roles.


    Hospitality as a Strength: IST recruits employees from hospitality industries because these individuals naturally excel at providing personal and attentive customer service, which is a key differentiator for the company. These skills help IST maintain a high level of client satisfaction.


    Executive Presence Program: This program aims to identify and develop employees with leadership potential. It includes written and video assessments to evaluate communication skills and influence, preparing employees for management roles by strengthening their presentation and writing abilities.


    Soft Skills Development through the SMART Program: The SMART Program (Site Management Awareness and Resource Training) is designed to build soft skills in employees promoted to managerial positions. It focuses on communication, employee discipline, and client relations, ensuring that managers are well-rounded and capable leaders.


    The Importance of Customized Training: IST’s approach to training is both continuous and customized to ensure maximum engagement and retention. By constantly updating training materials and using methods like live presentations, voiceovers, videos, and humor, IST avoids stagnation and makes learning more memorable. The company also tailors training to individual employee needs through the "IST Employee Profile," which tracks progress and addresses challenges. Interactive sessions provide real-time feedback, allowing employees to actively engage with the material and enhance their learning experience, ensuring both professional growth and improved job performance.


    Employee Retention, Satisfaction, and Adapting Generational Shifts: IST adapts its training programs to meet the evolving needs of a multi-generational workforce, ensuring both younger employees, who excel in video communication, and those needing improvement in formal writing receive targeted guidance. This balanced approach helps employees build well-rounded communication skills, preparing them for leadership roles. By offering robust training and development opportunities, IST not only enhances employee skills but also boosts retention and job satisfaction. Continuous learning empowers employees to advance within the company and equips them with valuable tools for future career growth.

    Leveraging AI for Training: IST is exploring AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance the relevance and efficiency of training materials, though maintaining human warmth and empathy in the training experience remains a priority. AI is seen as a tool to supplement, not replace, human-led training efforts.


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