On-the-job training has a tangible impact on how satisfied workers feel and how likely they are to stay with their current employer rather than seek opportunities elsewhere. This finding comes from researchers at the University of Auckland, as reported by the university press service. The study highlights that hands-on skill development offered at work translates into higher morale and a stronger commitment to the organization, creating a more stable workforce over time.
The researchers note that the value of on-the-job learning is especially pronounced for individuals whose formal education does not align with the duties of their role. When education and job responsibilities diverge, workers often struggle to apply what they learned in theory. In such cases, practical, workplace-based training fills gaps, turning abstract knowledge into useful competencies and enabling employees to perform with greater confidence and effectiveness.
Data from the study show that for employees occupying mismatched roles, ongoing training within the workplace leads to better retention rates. Workers in these positions who receive targeted development are more likely to continue with the same employer and are also 12 percent more likely to enroll in advanced training programs. The implications are clear: a focus on practical upskilling can reduce turnover and foster a more capable, adaptable workforce.
Across the OECD, statistics indicate that a significant share of workers are in jobs that do not fully reflect their qualifications or education. Specifically, about 35.7 percent of employees in 38 member countries experience some degree of mismatch between their training and their job requirements. This misalignment presents opportunities for organizations to rethink talent development and to design training pathways that better align with the skills that workers possess and need to deploy in their roles.
Experts in psychology and human resource management emphasize that trust and reliability between employers and freelancers or contract workers can be shaped by training practices as well. When professionals feel supported through consistent skill development, they are more likely to view client relationships with confidence and approach projects with greater assurance. Conversely, a lack of structured training can contribute to a sense of uncertainty about assignments and outcomes, which can erode collaboration and productivity over time.