How to Write an Effective Job Training Manual

Writing an effective job training manual is going to seem like a daunting task at first. Where do you start? What do you include? These are normal questions, along with many others that will arise. If you have access to an old job training manual of your own or a friends, look through it thoroughly as this will give you lots of guidance. 

1. Decide whether or not to create an electronic or paper manual. The electronic route saves money, and you can have employees sign a document that they have read and will adhere to it.


2. Take a look at a free manual template at http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/manual-template-TC030003939.aspx.


3. Remember through this process to think of writing the information from the standpoint of a new employee who may not be familiar with the lingo/terms/processes in your field.


4. Make an outline for the job training manual. Ideas for chapters or sections could be: Our Company, Overview, FAQ, The Process, Your Job, Safety, Expectations, and Standards.


5. Create a page with each chapter or section heading.


6. Fill in each section with the associated information as it applies to that job. Break information down into applicable sections (headings and subheadings) to keep related information grouped and make it easier to understand.


7. Use bullets and numbered lists to summarize information into simple commands or bits of information that are easily grasped.


8. Recap information into a summary at the end of each chapter or section.


9. Have someone proofread for spelling and syntax of the entire manual. Ask for suggestions on conveying the information.


10. Make any necessary changes and finish the manual.