Partner Article

Apprentices key to business success

John Sayers, Managing Director of specialist building and roofing contractor, Hodgson Sayers, explains why apprentices play a crucial role in any business.

The training and development of a skilled workforce has always been a top priority for Hodgson Sayers, after all it is the combined talent and determination of individuals which helps to bind together a successful business.

In my experience, apprentices are the lifeblood of any business! It is a route to seek out and harness fresh talent.

Sourcing and nurturing individuals is a mutually beneficial process for both apprentice and employer.

As an employer, time and training must be invested to help develop budding individuals who are eager and willing to learn a trade.

You have the chance to grow great talent, to install skills and bed-in a loyal workforce who know how your business operates and how to work well for you. It is also an opportunity to increase productivity, motivate people and, if carried out correctly, can lead to high staff retention.

It is also a chance for employers to give something back to the local economy, developing local talent helps to provide jobs and boost the region’s employability not just now but in the future.

A well structured apprenticeship scheme can also help to enhance your reputation within the industry that you operate.

Here are some good tips:

• Develop a mentoring system to provide support and structure, so that progress can be measured and any queries can be dealt with.
• Invest correctly and apprentices can provide real return for your bottom line, training can be more cost-effective than hiring skilled staff, leading to lower recruitment costs.
• Recognise their skills. As you continue your development progress with apprentices, it is important that their skills are highlighted, whether this is internally or through relevant industry award schemes. This is a great way to build on morale and highlight success stories to fellow peers.

As a company, we were delighted at the recent success of one of our young apprentices, Paul James, who took part in a prestigious industry award which recognised his talent as he continues to learn Roof/Slating/Tiling at an NVQ Level 2.

This was a great pat on the back for Paul and a proud moment for us as his employer.

Finally, develop a relationship with colleges and training providers where you will be looking to source high-calibre candidates, if they get to know you they will get a feel for potential individuals that will fit your business.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Hodgson Sayers .