As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize how we live, work, and learn, corporate training is becoming increasingly vital. Learning and Development (L&D) initiatives are key to helping employees navigate AI advancements and other emerging technologies.

Among the many training tools available, video content is rapidly gaining traction—and for good reason. Videos tend to be more engaging than other media formats, and studies have shown they are linked to better knowledge retention and more efficient learning.

In this article, we will explore how video can enhance corporate training programs and discuss the different types of videos that can make your training more dynamic and effective.

Why Video Works for Corporate Training

Video has a unique ability to captivate learners, leading to improved information retention. Research from Simpleshow reveals that short-form visual content is 65% more effective for learning than traditional PowerPoint presentations. This is because the human brain is naturally drawn to moving images.

Another major advantage of using video is its flexibility. Once created, video content can be shared online and accessed by learners anytime, anywhere. This makes it easy to integrate video into smart learning platforms, allowing you to tailor training to each employee’s unique needs.

Pro Tip: Add subtitles to your videos to ensure accessibility and extend the reach of your content, fostering an inclusive learning environment.

How to Use Video for Corporate Training

Video can be applied to virtually any type of training. Here are several examples of how you can incorporate video into various learning programs:

1. Onboarding: Videos can effectively introduce new hires to company culture, policies, and job roles, ensuring a smooth transition.

2. Compliance Training: Use video to explain complex regulations and best practices. Combining video with case studies and storytelling enhances engagement and comprehension.

3. Soft Skills Development: Videos can help illustrate essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. Real-world examples add interactive elements, boosting understanding.

4. Technical Training: Videos are perfect for explaining technical procedures or equipment operation. Learners can progress at their own pace, rewatching sections as needed.

5. Change Management: Communicate organizational updates and help employees understand the rationale behind changes. Videos can address concerns and guide smooth transitions.

6. Professional Development: Videos can provide ongoing growth opportunities, covering topics like time management, presentation skills, project management, and industry trends.

Choosing the Right Video Format

Once you’ve identified the training content, selecting the appropriate video format is crucial. Here are several types of videos you can use:

1. Animated Explainers: These videos combine 2D/3D animation, motion graphics, and storytelling elements. They are engaging and concise, making complex topics easier to grasp. Some tools allow you to create your own explainer videos with AI assistance, encouraging creativity and active learning.

2. Interactive Videos: These videos let viewers actively engage with the content, often incorporating quizzes, branching scenarios, and clickable elements. Though they require more production effort, interactive videos provide an immersive learning experience and help learners test their knowledge.

3. Talking Heads: A presenter speaks directly to the camera, providing information or guidance. Though common, this format can be challenging to execute well due to the need for a skilled presenter and quality audio/visual equipment. Alternatively, AI-driven virtual instructors can offer a cost-effective and dynamic solution.

4. How-To Videos: These instructional videos guide viewers step-by-step through tasks or processes. How-to videos can be easily created using screencasting, where the presenter’s screen is recorded and explained, making it ideal for demonstrating software use or technical procedures.

Maximizing Video Effectiveness

Regardless of which video format you choose, there are key strategies to maximize its effectiveness:

1. Define Your Audience and Goals: Understand your audience’s role, knowledge level, learning preferences, and demographics. This will help you create a script that resonates with them and achieves your training objectives.

2. Keep it Short: Short videos are more effective at retaining attention. Studies show that shorter content can boost information retention by 20%. Aim for brevity to keep your audience engaged.

3. Incorporate Storytelling: People remember stories better than dry facts. By weaving information into a narrative, you create emotional connections that enhance learning and make the material easier to recall.

4. Ensure Accessibility: Use learning management systems (LMS) to compile and organize videos for easy access. These platforms offer personalized learning paths, ensuring that your employees can easily engage with content.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to improve engagement, enhance information retention, and streamline learning for your employees, video training is the way forward. By thoughtfully considering your audience, keeping content concise, and ensuring accessibility, you can create a robust training program that empowers your team and drives success.

Leverage the power of video to elevate your corporate training programs, helping employees gain valuable skills and knowledge in an engaging and effective way.