An Evaluation of Eight Personnel Training Methods for Small Business Owners

Abstract

Data are presented which indicate a need for improvement in the personnel skills of small business owners. A set of criteria is then provided for possible approaches to training small business owners in personnel skills. These criteria were developed from interview material acquired in a field study of small business owners. They include: research substantiation of overall effectiveness; face validity; degree of efficiency of time use; ease of access; relative cost; degree to which the method involves criticism of trainees; and effectiveness in skill development. The training approaches evaluated or these criteria are the lecture method, programmed instruction; business games/simulation; the case method, the role play method, sensitivity training; the conference method; and behaviour role modelling. Results suggest that most small business owners would derive the greatest benefits from behaviour role modelling, business games, and/or role play method and would benefit least from the lecture method and sensitivity training.

Citation

Verser, T.G. (1989), "An Evaluation of Eight Personnel Training Methods for Small Business Owners", Journal of Organizational Change Management, Vol. 2 No. 3, pp. 41-53. https://doi.org/10.1108/09534818910137975