Informal training occurs in many organisations as a normal part of day-to-day work. Informal training is a valid approach to improving employee skills and motivation.

Some examples of informal training in the workplace are:

Mentoring

Mentoring is a strategy that matches a more experienced worker with a less experienced worker to provide regular opportunities for sharing of advice and knowledge.

Ad hoc training sessions by staff members

A staff member who has strong skills in a particular area, such as a computer application, can provide ad-hoc training to co-workers on the job.

Group briefings/guest speakers

Individuals or teams can make presentations to colleagues about specific projects they are working on. Guest speakers can also address seminars to talk to employees.

Internal communications

Intranets and internal publications are valuable methods of keeping employees informed and providing access to various resources that help improve skills.

Web-based training and computer tutorials

The Internet offers tremendous resources for learning, either free or at a nominal charge.

Books and references

Organisations can establish technical and professional libraries and circulate periodicals to encourage self-learning amongst staff.