Upskilling: change behaviour to change results

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify why many training programmes, which are designed to provide a higher level of skills continue to fail to deliver the results companies are looking for. Design/methodology/approach – The paper studies the approach of Huthwaite International, an external training company brought in to administer training. Findings – It is found that Huthwaite achieved success by establishing a support and reinforcement process to ensure that the behaviour change becomes permanent. If effective skills training courses are designed and the correct people to attend, this will have an immediate effect, but will not last. However, if the effect is to be sustained, it needs to be backed up with support. Research limitations/implications – Only one company's approach to training and sustainable change is studied. Practical implications – The paper demonstrates how bringing in an external training consultancy can be more effective than working in house. Originality/value – Insights are offered into how to deliver practical, relevant and sustainable training.