Following ‘The Great Resignation’ of 2021 – when workers around the UK left their jobs in record numbers – it’s time to turn the tide. Let’s make 2022 the ‘Year of Retention’.
Here, Jill Whittaker, Managing Director at The Executive Development Network looks at why investing in training is an ideal place to start when it comes to attracting and retaining staff.
Embracing new priorities
After the disruption to our working lives brought about by the Coronavirus pandemic, there have been lasting changes to how we look at work and what we expect from our jobs. And, in today’s competitive job market, ensuring your staff feel valued is more important than ever.
Providing training to support their career development is an ideal way to invest in your staff and recognise the value they bring to your business. Apprenticeships are one of the best ways to nurture continual learning, both for those new to your company and to help existing employees to upskill and reskill.
Plus, as well as fostering job satisfaction and loyalty, your business will of course reap the rewards of having a highly skilled workforce.
Tackling misconceptions
While there’s been a growing awareness of the opportunities offered through apprenticeships, a number of prevailing myths are potentially preventing both employers and individuals from considering them as an option.
For example, it’s often perceived that apprenticeships pay poorly and offer limited career opportunities, but that simply isn’t the case.
Similarly, you may think of them as just an option for school leavers, but there’s no age limit. Apprenticeships are an ideal way for people at any stage in their working lives to reskill or to build on their existing skills.
A degree-level apprenticeship is a great opportunity for those in management and leadership positions wanting to refine and build on their experience even further. In fact, more and more businesses are realising that age shouldn’t be a limiting factor when it comes to investing in developing their workforce.
As more and more people of all ages – and with various levels of experience – are starting to see the opportunities available through apprenticeships, change is on the horizon. And with greater flexibility in how apprenticeships are delivered, businesses will have more options in how they attract newcomers to the sector, as well as supporting their existing employees to grow and develop in their roles.
Apprenticeships are a powerful future-proofing tool for businesses when it comes to nurturing top talent and giving your leadership team the edge. Get in touch with our friendly team today to find out more about how apprenticeships could benefit your business.