We are all aware of the recent transformation of the direct selling industry. The sector is undergoing significant changes as new generations enter the workforce, bringing with them different expectations for training and development. Once there existed the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to training, but it is no longer effective in today's diverse distributor landscape. This rigid method fails to cater to the unique learning preferences, attention spans, and expectations of distributors across generations, leaving them feeling overlooked, uninspired, and ultimately, less productive.

So, here comes the significance of the multi-generational approach in distributor training(https://www.epixelmlmsoftware.com/blog/generation-based-distributor-training-direct-sales). In this approach, all the generations from Gen Z, younger and older Millennials to Gen X, will have tailored training options.

Importance of generation-based training in direct selling companies:

*Increase in distributor engagement

*Improved learning outcomes

*Enhanced distributor satisfaction

*Boosted sales

*Reduced training costs

*Competitive advantage

Now, let’s delve into each and every aspect of the distributor training across various generations.

Insights on bridging generational gaps

Each generation of distributors comes with distinct preferences regarding how they prefer to be approached, communicated with, and engaged in direct selling opportunities. When we take the examples of Millennials(https://www.britannica.com/topic/millennial), we can witness that they prioritize meaningful connections. At the same time, Gen Z prefers interactive experiences, and Baby Boomers value practical guidance.

Before going on further, let us pause for a moment and get to know about the preferred learning styles and modalities across different generations, including Gen Z, younger and older Millennials, and Gen X:

*Gen Z: Bite-sized content, interactive modules, gamification, social media. and mobile apps.

*Younger Millennials: eLearning, short videos, gamification, social media, online communities, and interactive activities.

*Older Millennials: In-person workshops, webinars, gamification, social media, online courses, and group activities.

*Gen X: Hands-on training, technology-based training, in-person workshops, gamification, and social media.

With this, we can conclude that there is a noticeable trend towards shorter, interactive, and engaging learning formats, particularly preferred by Gen Z and younger Millennials. But when the same comes to the older generations, they may still appreciate traditional methods such as in-person workshops and webinars.

So, direct selling companies that effectively tailor their training programs to accommodate this diverse landscape will be better positioned to attract and retain distributors from various generations. By integrating interactive modules, microlearning(https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/microlearning-is-how-work-places-will-succeed-moving-forward/374429), gamification, mobile apps, and compelling content, companies can empower their distributors with the skills and knowledge essential for success in today's digital era.

Understanding the modern learner

A recent study reveals that an estimated 70% of the workforce will be made up of Millennials and Gen Z by 2025. So, let us just take a short view on the distinct learning preferences of Millennials and Gen Z when direct selling companies begin to provide,

*Online and offline access to training materials.

*On-Demand access by integrating microlearning elements.

*Bite-sized content with digestible modules.

*Interactive learning by implementing engaging activities.

This denotes the significance of establishing a multi-generational approach to training that helps network marketing companies guide their younger workforce in upholding a commitment to lifelong learning within the professional sphere.