Transforming sales onboarding into a streamlined online learning experience

Spearheading online learning for the sales organization—modernizing onboarding and setting the foundation for future scalable learning initiatives.

CHALLENGE

OpenTable’s Sales and Restaurant Support Services (RSS) teams were growing fast, but the existing new hire training program relied heavily on live instruction that lacked consistency. Trainers and managers were stretched thin delivering repetitive sessions, and new hires didn’t have an easy way to find essential onboarding resources.

SOLUTION

I led the development and launch of the RSS New Hire Core Curriculum, creating a blended learning experience that combined interactive online modules in the Saba LMS with adapted live instruction. To address the need for a centralized learning hub, I designed and launched the RSS Training Portal (formerly the New Hire Resource Site), a single source for onboarding tools, process content, and job aids.

From day one, I met with more than a dozen field staff across the RSS organization to identify pain points and align priorities. These conversations directly shaped the new curriculum and program roadmap. I collaborated cross-functionally to adapt and digitize instructor-led sessions (Prospecting, Discovery, Pricing, and OpenTable Overview), create new eLearning experiences like the OpenTable Product Showcase and Restaurant 101, and redesign the New Hire Welcome Packet and Manager Prep materials.

In addition, I administered Saba LMS—managing testing, launches, enrollment, and reporting—and implemented the Master Sales New Hire Spreadsheet to track progress and ensure timely completion. Through strong collaboration and networking, I became a trusted advisor within OpenTable and my content was later adopted by additional departments and the broader employee base.

DELIVERABLES

• RSS New Hire Core Curriculum hosted on Saba LMS – curriculum pathway design, development, and rollout

• Nine structured eLearning courses built in Articulate Rise and Storyline, covering company orientation, restaurant operations to deep dives on three core products.

• Adapted ILT session courses blended with online learning (Prospecting, Discovery, Pricing, and OpenTable Overview)

• Centralized onboarding portal hosted on Google Sites—robust resource site with sales process content and on-the-job tools.

• Project roadmap and implementation plan to scale the program across additional roles and future new hires.

This was the company’s first fully blended onboarding program, setting the stage for future online learning initiatives.

RESULTS

• Streamlined, standardized, scalable experience for dozens of new sales and services reps across multiple roles, through a consistent, self-paced learning experience. improving readiness before in-person training.

• Enhanced accessibility of sales resources through centralized documentation and digital job aids.

• Reduced dependency on trainers and managers for repetitive instruction, allowing them to focus on coaching and strategic skill development.

• Courses and resource hub adopted by other departments due to strong results and demonstrated impact.

• Earned positive feedback from learners and leadership for clarity, accessibility, and engagement.

• Established as a trusted learning advisor within OpenTable through strong collaboration and proactive partnership.