*2012, the year of training?*
With all the confusing changes in employment law and mixed messages from the government to support or hinder small businesses, it would appear the majority of businesses are looking to cross train and up train their staff as a way of escaping the nightmare of confusion around employment law trauma and risk.
DY approved supplier *Direct law and Personnel* say that of their retained clients from their four nationwide offices that due to the changes in agency workers rights and the fear of unknown costs of pensions and tribunal fees it is easier and more sensible to keep existing staff and spend budgets on ensuring staff are the best they can possibly be at their own role whilst adding the pressure of training them for new roles that redundancies have caused.
This is an interesting twist and a massive move away from the governments desired goal of decreasing unemployment figures. Judith Fiddler, CEO (pictured) of employment law and HR experts DLP stated that almost a third of their national retained clients are scared and confused and have chosen to concentrate on improving staff rather than replacing them or increasing numbers as the government predicted.
One example given, was an accountancy firm who cross qualify staff from different departments. Businesses are nervous of what’s to come, this is not a time for expansion or investment, business owners are saving all their budgets and any surplus for any rough times ahead. There are brave businesses that are investing and see this time as an opportunity for growth but its key that these businesses have the right staff in place and a time of stability not confusion is what’s required.
Top five legal tips for managing training
1. Ensure you know what it is you want to achieve from any training, set goals and desired skills.
2. Remember, not every personality can do every role. Training advisors can help you assess round pegs in square holes!
3. Be clear and up front with any staff younger hoping to cross skill.
4. Consider all your staff and all the skills you need. Some good solutions may not be immediately obvious.
5. Choose a training company or mentor from their live testimonials only. Websites, written testimonials, twitter followers or social media is no true indication.
The association have ensured that DLP are available for free consultations on any issues concerning training, employment law or government changes. Please call any member of their team on 0844 815 6151.