Making Apprenticeships Work
I haven't read this article! However, I’m a strong proponent of apprenticeships, and I know that much of the lack of such teaching opportunities lies with the lack of technical teachers under whom students could learn. For example, who in your organization has an apprentice?
I stress this because I hear so many companies saying students aren't graduating (high school AND college) ready to work. Of course not! School isn’t work. Businesses also play a role in worker readiness, and it seems that many of them aren't willing to step up and do their job.
How can you offer training opportunities on-site to grow your own future employees?
And how can you train your new employees in what they need to know to be successful in your organization? For some employees, this may be as simple as setting expectations for being on time and what is appropriate dress for your work environment. For others, they may need training in how to resolve conflicts with coworkers, in how to politely speak with prospective (or angry) customers, or in how to use a specific computer program.
Many years ago, someone introduced me to the idea of a commitment issue versus a training issue. Does the troubled employee not really want to be here? Or do they just not know how to do what I’m asking? The first type of person is not worth keeping around, but the second one could be. Sure, they might not be able to learn the required skill, but it’s a far better investment for me to try to teach them. If they end up learning the skills, they are likely to be quite loyal and appreciative of the effort I put in.
If you have someone who is not meeting your expectations, first ask: Do they truly want to be there?