Abstract

This study assesses the impact of different types of training on employee job satisfaction at Njieforbi Bakery in Buea, Cameroon. Employee training plays a vital role in skill development, career growth, and overall job satisfaction, which in turn influences performance and retention. In this case study, various training types are analyzed to determine how they contribute to employee satisfaction within the bakery industry.

The types of training examined include on-the-job training, mentorship programs, formal classroom training, and e-learning. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving questionnaires and interviews with 30 employees at Njieforbi Bakery. The objective was to gauge their perspectives on the effectiveness of these training methods and how they impact their job satisfaction.

The findings suggest that employees who received on-the-job training and mentorship programs expressed higher job satisfaction compared to those who participated in more formal training types such as classroom sessions. On-the-job training allowed employees to learn in a practical environment, which directly improved their skills and confidence. The personalized nature of mentorship programs also fostered a sense of belonging and motivation among employees. In contrast, classroom-based training, although informative, was less favored due to its less interactive nature and limited practical applications.

E-learning was another training type that garnered mixed reactions. Employees appreciated the flexibility and convenience of online modules, but technical challenges such as limited internet access and a lack of digital literacy made it difficult for some to fully benefit from this method. Despite these challenges, e-learning has potential when coupled with adequate technical support.

Overall, the study shows that the most effective training types in enhancing job satisfaction at Njieforbi Bakery are those that provide hands-on experience and personal guidance, as they help employees feel more competent in their roles. Training that is adaptable to the specific needs of employees and the bakery’s operational demands significantly contributes to employee retention and performance.

However, some limitations were noted. Employees expressed a desire for more continuous learning opportunities and better access to advanced digital tools for e-learning. The study recommends that management consider implementing a balanced mix of training types that cater to the diverse needs of their workforce, including more frequent on-the-job training and enhanced support for e-learning initiatives.

Keywords: Training types, employee job satisfaction, on-the-job training, mentorship, e-learning, bakery industry, Njieforbi Bakery, Cameroon.