You’re training new network engineers. How can you ensure they’re ready for the job?

1 Assess their current level

Before you start training your new network engineers, you need to assess their current level of knowledge and skills. This will help you tailor your training plan to their specific needs and gaps, and avoid wasting time on topics they already know or are not relevant. You can use online tests, quizzes, interviews, or simulations to evaluate their understanding of network fundamentals, protocols, tools, and best practices. You can also ask them about their learning goals, preferences, and expectations to align your training objectives with theirs.

2 Provide hands-on practice

One of the best ways to train new network engineers is to provide them with hands-on practice on real or simulated network environments. This will help them apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations, learn from their mistakes, and gain confidence in their abilities. You can use lab exercises, projects, case studies, or scenarios to expose them to different network challenges, such as designing, configuring, testing, securing, or optimizing a network. You can also use online platforms, such as Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or NetSim, to create and simulate network models and scenarios.

4 Mentor and coach them

Another way to train new network engineers is to mentor and coach them throughout their learning journey. You can assign them a senior or experienced network engineer as a mentor, who can provide them with guidance, feedback, support, and advice. You can also coach them on how to improve their skills, performance, and career development. You can use regular meetings, check-ins, reviews, or feedback sessions to monitor their progress, address their challenges, and celebrate their achievements. You can also encourage them to seek feedback from their peers, clients, or stakeholders.

5 Encourage them to learn continuously

Finally, you need to encourage your new network engineers to learn continuously and keep up with the latest trends and technologies in the network engineering field. You can provide them with resources, such as books, blogs, podcasts, webinars, or courses, to help them expand their knowledge and skills. You can also encourage them to pursue certifications, such as CCNA, CCNP, or CCIE, to validate their expertise and credibility. You can also foster a culture of learning and curiosity in your team, where you share best practices, insights, and lessons learned.