6 Ways To Use Task Simulations To Avoid The Fear Of The Unknown In Compliance Online Training

Face Compliance Online Training Challenges Using Task Simulations

Performing a work task may seem simple enough, but there’s always room for error. Even processes that come as second nature to your staffers may result in penalties, fines, or on-the-job accidents. Just imagine how it is for the new hires who are unfamiliar with compliance protocols. Is there a way to mitigate risks and get them ready for the obstacles ahead without putting coworkers in danger? Compliance online training task simulations eliminate the fear of the unknown and build self-reliance. Employees know which steps to follow and mistakes to avoid. Here’s how you can use online training simulations to put them at ease.

1. Focus On Practicality Instead Of Pressure

Most employees don’t fear the subject matter itself but the negative emotions that come with an online compliance training experience. They worry about the stress and pressure they’ll have to endure in the process. So, use task simulations to focus on practical application as opposed to high-pressure scenarios. Of course, there are some real-world challenges that are stressful by their very nature. Thus, you need to strike a balance to expose employees to obstacles without making them pull out their hair. They’ll also see that things aren’t so bad if they stay level-headed and composed on the job and that they can overcome workplace hurdles with a little patience and lateral thinking skills.

2. Map Out Every Step Of Compliance Training

Task simulations allow employees to experience all the steps in the process, which is a great way to overcome the fear of the unknown. You aren’t throwing them into the deep end and hoping they come through unscathed. Compliance online training simulations enable them to participate in tasks in a supportive space, instead of making a major error on the job in front of a customer or risking someone’s life. Just make certain that you map out every step and skill involved in online training simulations so that they know what to expect. You can even include a checklist or tie-in tutorial to refresh their memory. The goal is to demystify compliance online training tasks and break them down into manageable steps.

3. Include Risks And Repercussions

Another major source of fear and apprehension is not knowing the risks involved or the repercussions of those risks in terms of safety and their standing within the company. For example, making a mistake might cause a customer’s injury. As a result, the employee is reprimanded or could potentially lose their job. Today, lack of knowledge regarding the changing COVID-19 regulations can also lead to heavy penalties or, even worse, an outbreak. Task simulations outline all the risks involved, how to avoid them, and what happens if there is a worst-case scenario. Employees are more likely to think about their actions when they understand the consequences. This also helps them be more self-assured in the workplace because they’re aware of compliance issues and how to circumvent them. Keep in mind that risks are necessary to grow. Employees should be encouraged to take these risks as long as they’re calculated and well-executed.

4. Incorporate Common Compliance Training Mistakes

It’s not just the risks employees need to be aware of, but also the common mistakes that trip them up. Give them the complete picture (warts and all) of the task and how they can prevent errors with varying consequences. From minor faux-pas that lead to minor customer inconveniences to full-fledged errors that put lives in peril. They may be afraid of the unknown because they’re unsure of their abilities and how they’ll react in stressful situations. So, give them a detailed overview of compliance slip-ups and pointers to minimize the damage. Pair this with do/don’t video demos to set an example.

5. Use Familiar Tools Of The Trade

Online training simulations must include tools, equipment, and resources employees find in the workplace. Not only does it improve realism but it also gives them an opportunity to acclimate to their professional environment. They’re able to test out the sales terminal or learn how to clean heavy machinery. Seeing the tools in action and understanding how they function alleviates the fear of the unknown. It’s no longer a “scary” software app that your new hire must use to inventory products. Task simulations enable them to explore the software’s features and functions in a safe setting, where they don’t have to worry about erasing an entire product line from the database and wreaking havoc on the sales floor.

6. Provide Immediate Feedback And Follow-Up Resources

Fear can often be overcome—or at least minimized—with support. Employees need to know that there are online training tools to help them improve compliance and bridge gaps. Task simulations should also point out areas of concern so that they know what to focus on. Knowledge is power. Self-evaluation can be stressful in the beginning, because employees don’t want to admit their faults. However, constructive eLearning feedback gives them a focal point and makes them less afraid of positive change. Tell them where they went wrong and how to address the issue. Provide a list of follow-up resources they can use to avoid repeating mistakes and brush up on compliance knowledge.

Fear is a powerful thing. It can make employees back away from risks, even if they’re calculated and might lead to valuable life lessons. So, include task simulations that expose employees to everyday challenges and build self-confidence. You never know what obstacles they’ll face in the workplace, but they can use the online training experience in different contexts. Make sure you map out the steps, highlight causes and effects, and incorporate familiar tools to hone their practical expertise.