The pandemic has forced us all to adapt our training methods for junior auditors. Here in Memphis with MLGW, I've had to completely rethink how we onboard new staff remotely. Screen sharing only goes so far when you're trying to teach bill analysis techniques. What creative solutions have you folks found for remote mentoring? Looking for practical tips that actually work.
Best practices for remote training during COVID?
Randy, I've been using dual monitor setups extensively. Trainee has the bill on one screen, audit software on the other, while we video conference. I can see both their screens and guide them through calculations in real time. Takes some tech setup but works well once everyone gets comfortable with it.
Carol's dual monitor approach is solid. I've also started recording training sessions for later review. When I'm explaining a complex tariff structure or working through a demand calculation, having that recording available helps reinforce the concepts. Junior auditors can replay sections they didn't fully grasp the first time.
The challenge I've found with remote training is the lack of casual interaction. In-person, junior auditors would overhear conversations, see how we handle phone calls with utilities, observe body language during client meetings. I've started scheduling informal 'coffee chat' video calls to recreate some of that ambient learning.
Willa hits on something important there. The informal learning was huge. I've been doing virtual 'ride-alongs' where junior auditors join client calls as observers. They get to see real interactions without the pressure of participating. Here with TEP in Tucson, it's helped maintain that mentorship dynamic even while working from home.
I've found success with collaborative document editing. When reviewing a complex utility bill, we both work in the same spreadsheet simultaneously. I can see their thought process in real time and correct mistakes immediately. It's more interactive than just screen sharing and gives them hands-on experience with our standard templates.
Alice, that's brilliant! I'm definitely stealing that idea. The real-time collaboration aspect mimics working side-by-side much better than traditional screen sharing. Here with Entergy in New Orleans, I've also started using virtual whiteboards for explaining rate structures and drawing out billing logic diagrams.
One thing that's worked well is creating a shared digital library of example bills with embedded comments and annotations. Junior auditors can study these independently, then we discuss them in our weekly video meetings. It's like having a textbook but with real-world examples from our actual client base.
Tyrone, that digital library concept is excellent. I'm working on something similar using our MLGW case studies. The key seems to be maintaining that personal connection while leveraging technology to enhance the learning process. Has anyone found good solutions for the hands-on aspects - like teaching meter reading or site visits?
Randy, for site visits I've been using smartphone cameras extensively. Junior auditor livestreams the walkthrough while I guide them remotely on what to look for. Not perfect but better than postponing all field training until we can meet in person. The key is having really good mobile data plans!
Eddie's livestream idea is creative. I've also been mailing junior auditors copies of actual meter photos and bill images to review before our training sessions. Old school but it gives them something tangible to work with while we discuss over video. Sometimes mixing high-tech and low-tech approaches works best.
The physical materials idea is smart Carol. I've been shipping junior auditors care packages with utility tariff books, sample bills, and even old meters for hands-on practice. Creates a shared experience even when we're geographically separated. Plus they appreciate the personal touch during these isolated times.
All great ideas here. The silver lining of forced remote training is that we've developed more structured, documented processes. Pre-COVID, a lot of knowledge transfer happened informally. Now we have recorded sessions, written procedures, and digital libraries that will benefit future trainees even after we return to normal operations.