When one person may have to perform multiple functions, what is the best method of staff development?

• A. On-the-job mentoring
• B. Cross-training
• C. Specialized training in one area
• D. Outsourcing tasks

Answer: (B)

Cross-training develops versatility by teaching staff to perform multiple functions, which is essential when one person may have to cover several roles. By exposing employees to related tasks across different areas, you create a workforce that can adapt to coverage gaps, vacations, or sudden demand without waiting for specialists. In facilities management, a technician who understands both electrical and mechanical systems, building automation, and basic safety procedures can handle a wider range of issues, keep operations flowing, and collaborate more effectively with others who own those areas. This approach also supports succession planning and resilience, since skills aren’t tied to a single role. Specialized training in one area leaves gaps when multiple functions are needed, and outsourcing transfers work outside the internal team rather than building internal capability. On-the-job mentoring focuses more narrowly on guiding an individual, which doesn’t broaden the breadth of capabilities as efficiently as cross-training.