One topic that comes up regularly within the trade is apprentices and whether they’re worth the time it takes to train them. We believe the benefits of having an apprentice far outweigh the negatives, here are 4 reasons we think all tradesmen should consider taking on apprentices:

 

#1 - Cost Effective Labour

Of course, we’re not talking about slave labour here. Apprentices demand minimum wage by law, but if you get the right apprentice who’s enthusiastic and eager to learn, this could be a small price to pay. When it comes to labouring jobs and other bits it can actually cost you more having to do it yourself or having a more skilled employee do it. You could be spending that time doing more critical jobs and putting hard earned skills to use. Let the young ones take care of that other stuff, and you can keep earning. Plus, you’re entitled to a grant for each apprentice you take on to help with costs.

 

#2 - Staff Retention

Sure, they may be unskilled and a little bit clueless when they start out, but if you do a good job of developing your apprentice they could turn out to be highly skilled, loyal employees in just a few short years. Many apprentices go on to become valued members of staff for the company they completed their apprenticeship with. Treat them right and they’ll always remember that it was you who took a chance on them.

 

#3 - Improve Your Own Skills

Taking on an apprentice can help you personally. Mentoring a young person can help you to develop your own managerial skills and improve the way you interact with staff. Most apprentices are required by law to attend college 1 day a week, this can provide you with a source of information on the latest updates in your trade. Don’t be surprised if your apprentice ends up teaching you a thing or two after a few months in college.

 

#4 - Fill Skill Gaps

An apprentice is essentially a blank canvas. If you’ve noticed your business is sorely missing a certain skillset this could be the perfect opportunity to create that skill. Many older tradesmen will be reluctant to go back to college and start learning again, and rightly so, they’ve done their time. Why not use an apprenticeship to gain a skill that you don’t already have?

 

#5 - Give Something Back

It might sound slightly cheesy, but it’s a nice opportunity to give something back to your trade and combat skills shortages within the country. At the end of the day, somebody must have given you your first opportunity, maybe it’s time that you return the favour.

 

If you want further information on hiring apprentices, there’s a section on the gov.uk site here with all the information you’ll need.