Train today, save tomorrow!

In today’s economic climate, where every dollar counts, companies must make strategic choices when it comes to human resources.

When a new position opens up or a need for specific skills arises, there are two main options: train an existing employee internally or hire someone externally. While both approaches have their merits, internal training often proves to be the most cost-effective solution in the long run. Here’s why.

Internal training: A smart and sustainable investment

Training an existing employee may come with an initial cost, but this investment pays off quickly—especially if the company takes the time to structure its approach. Here are the main financial benefits:

  • Lower Recruitment Costs

    Hiring externally involves:
    • Job postings
    • Recruitment agencies
    • Interviewing and screening candidates
    • Administrative follow-ups

    These steps are costly. Training someone already in-house helps reduce or even eliminate these expenses.

  • Creating a Training Program = Repeated Savings

    Investing in the development of a structured training program means having a reusable tool. Once the content (modules, videos, guides, etc.) is created, it allows you to:
    • Onboard new hires faster
    • Standardize learning
    • Reduce reliance on external trainers or one-on-one coaching

    Each new training session becomes quicker, more efficient—and most importantly: less expensive.

  • Faster and More Effective Integration

    Employees trained internally already know:
    • The company culture
    • The tools used
    • The ways of working

    As a result, they become productive much more quickly than a new hire, which saves both time and money.

  • Increased Retention


    Offering internal training is an investment in your employees’ potential. It makes them feel valued and engaged, and less likely to leave—further reducing turnover-related costs.

External hiring: A costly shortcut

While hiring externally might seem simpler, it brings financial risks:

  • The High Cost of a Hiring Mistake
    A bad hire can cost up to 30% of the position’s annual salary—not to mention the negative impact on the team.
  • Longer Adaptation Period
    Even a highly skilled new hire must learn your systems, processes, and adapt to your culture. During this time, their productivity is limited.
  • Lower Retention
    Externally recruited employees may be less loyal in the long term—especially if they receive a better offer elsewhere. The result? Repeated replacement costs.

Conclusion: Long-term thinking means internal training

In summary, internal training—especially when backed by a structured program—is a profitable growth driver for any organization. It not only develops essential skills, but also helps build a loyal, high-performing team while reducing recurring recruitment expenses. Investing in a strong training program means setting yourself up for long-term savings.

Want to build internal training within your organization and enhance team development? Contact us to learn how Alpha Learning can support you through this process.

Note: This article was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence, under the supervision and review of our editorial team.

Amélie Leduc
April 18 2025

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info@alphalearning.ca
+1 (438) 378-6489
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