Equipping partners with in-depth product knowledge through channel partner training is crucial for sales success. However, traditional training programs can be time-consuming, disruptive to their workflow, and often lead to information overload. Plus, they’re often shown to be unproductive. According to the NTL Institute of Applied Behavioral Science Learning Pyramid, traditional learning methods based on listening, reading, and observing are ineffective – the learner may recall only 20% to 30% of the contents.
Microlearning offers a solution by delivering bite-sized, engaging training modules that can be easily integrated into busy schedules. This ensures partners gain the latest product knowledge without sacrificing productivity.
Imagine channel partners who are confident in answering customer questions, troubleshooting issues with ease, and closing deals faster... microlearning can make this a reality.
One key microlearning best practice is delivering those small chunks of information through a robust learning management system (LMS). Keep reading for more insights on empowering your channel partners with microlearning.
Microlearning best practices for channel partner training
1. Ease of access
Channel partners benefit most from microlearning when it's easily accessible. These types of learners could be working on the road, presenting at tradeshows, or visiting clients in different offices. They need small, snack-sized info, even when their internet connection is less than reliable.
Ensure your microlearning modules are easily accessible on any device to support learning on demand. An LMS should offer superior app functionality and a responsive mobile UX. For example, channel partners should be able to complete lessons offline, then the learning app should automatically sync progress when the internet connection returns.
2. Tactical search results
Since microlearning answers a specific question, ensure channel partners can quickly find those answers. Microlearning for business isn't useful if the answer is buried under several pages of search results.
Equip your channel partners with applicable microlearning content as they're looking for it within the LMS. It all starts with a search process powered by machine learning. Instead of serving generic results, an LMS with machine learning search capabilities connects learners with relevant content based on their roles, past searches, and what their peers found useful.
This type of technology empowers your channel partners to quickly grasp knowledge—exactly when they need it.
3. Actionable learning
Microlearning for business should feature tangible, skill-based information, like how to configure a software feature or how to sell a certain product. Short lessons can provide actionable value in a moment of need and link to a larger context for reengagement.
According to LinkedIn's 2024 Workplace Learning Report, "90% of organizations are concerned about employee retention, and providing learning, and providing learning opportunities is the number one retention strategy." Additionally, at least 47% of L&D teams plan to deploy microlearning programs in 2024. An LMS can align microlearning with tasks by integrating directly with workflows and other software. Absorb Infuse embeds LMS experience elements—such as course catalogs, progress tracking, and collaborations tools—directly into other work applications. This delivers actionable learning directly in the platforms where channel partners already spend their time.
4. Self-directed experiences
LinkedIn also found 59% of learners value the ability to set their own pace. This autonomy could be especially valuable for some channel partners who collaborate with multiple brands or companies.
An LMS can build engagement among channel partners by helping learners self-diagnose challenges at their own speed. For example, after providing microlearning content, give your channel partners the opportunity to identify knowledge gaps through self-assessment and quizzes. As soon as channel partners can see areas where they can improve knowledge, the faster they can get up to speed.
Convenient microlearning for channel partners
Building learner engagement among external audiences like channel partners can be a challenge. Unlike traditional employees, channel partners juggle various responsibilities and often work remotely. They might struggle to find dedicated time for training, especially if the content isn't readily available on their preferred devices. Additionally, keeping partners engaged with lengthy training modules can be difficult.
Here's where Absorb LMS comes in. By providing a blend of microlearning tactics and intuitive LMS features, Absorb helps you overcome these challenges. For instance, Absorb offers a mobile-friendly app that allows channel partners to access bite-sized learning modules anytime, anywhere, even with a spotty internet connection. Offline access ensures learning continues uninterrupted, and progress automatically syncs upon reconnection.
This convenience empowers channel partners to identify their own challenges and find answers in the flow of work. They can quickly access relevant microlearning content based on their specific needs, leading to increased knowledge retention and improved performance. Imagine the impact on your sales and customer satisfaction when your channel partners are armed with the latest product knowledge, troubleshooting skills, and confident sales pitches – all thanks to a seamless microlearning experience.
Ready to learn more about the power of microlearning for channel partner training? Sign up for a live demo to see how Absorb LMS delivers microlearning to empower your channel partners and other external learners.
