5 ways to train and develop your workforce

At P2HR, we often hear the same concern from small businesses: “We want to invest in our people, but training is so expensive.”

The good news? You don’t need a huge budget to build skills and boost motivation across your workforce. Here are five low-cost, high-impact ways to develop your team — and help your business thrive.

1. Peer-to-peer learning

Encourage team members to share skills informally — from software hacks to project management tips. It builds confidence, strengthens team bonds, and makes learning feel natural.

2. Use free or low-cost online resources

There are fantastic free courses out there — think LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or CIPD webinars. Create a curated list by role or topic, and build learning into the working week.

3. Skills huddles

Run quick, focused team huddles during work hours to share a tip, tool or case study. Keep them optional and under 20 minutes — They’re informal, engaging, and perfect for bite-sized development.no lunchtime learning required!

4. Stretch projects

Give employees the chance to lead a new task or work outside their usual role. It costs nothing but time and can develop skills like leadership, budgeting, or stakeholder engagement.

5. Coaching-style management

Train your managers to use coaching conversations in day-to-day work. It’s one of the most effective — and free — ways to nurture performance and growth.

Need help creating a cost-effective training plan that actually delivers?
At P2HR we specialise in helping small businesses develop their people without breaking the bank. Let’s talk!