Redesigned Training Program Helps Recruit and Retain Top Talent for Global Automotive Manufacturer

Challenge

A global automotive manufacturer had been experiencing high turnover rates among technical employees in dealerships throughout the Middle East. The organization wanted to develop a new means of recruiting and retaining technicians to offset these attrition rates.

The organization proposed a training program that would improve the learning journey for regional dealership employees. The solution needed to:

• Be digital-first, mobile-friendly, and accessible at the time of need.
• Provide inspiration and support to help learners stay motivated and gain confidence
• Allow for peer learning and provide access to personalized coaching

Additionally, the client wanted to create a certified training program located outside the region that would offer relocation support to top graduating talent.

Solution

GP Strategies collaborated with the client to create a blended learning solution that profoundly improves the learning journey for regional dealership employees. Creating this new training required redesigning all existing training materials to ensure full alignment of knowledge and skills required for each job role. This consisted of 56 courses for non-technical positions and 28 for technical roles across 21 role-specific pathways.

The courses for each path were organized around several key skill pillars relevant to that job role. Each job path also includes its own unique assortment of media and activities. Some learning modalities include roleplaying, peer review, face-to-face coaching sessions, video content, eLearning, virtual classroom training (VCT), knowledge checks, action plans, and back-to-work assignments.

As part of this program, a technician training center was established to recruit promising candidates from outside the target region. The training center offered a ten-week residential training program to qualify candidates to meet the client’s international standards.

Results

• Each learner now spends an average of four fewer days per year in training.
• The reduction of live training days resulted in workforce savings of over $500,000.
• 68% of the training center candidates graduated as certified general technicians.
• 96% of the training center graduates accepted employment at regional dealerships.

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“The training center’s strategy has driven many efficiencies within the business. Not only have we seen cost reduction, but improved quality, dealer satisfaction, and expanded opportunities to reach remote markets and drive additional revenue. A true success story on so many levels.” – Director of Customer Care and Aftersales

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This program has been honored with a 2024 HCM Excellence Award by the Brandon Hall Group: Gold Award for Best Certification Program.