For many businesses the option of taking on new staff is a mute point. The economic climate is still biting however big your order book. One way of combating a lack of bodies on, say, the shop floor, is to think about using an apprentice to bolster your workforce.

Some of you may feel that an apprentice is more trouble than they’re worth. However, for the majority of businesses which take on an apprentice it is a worthwhile experience. An apprentice, if recruited carefully and with a thorough understanding of what is expected of you, can be a way to develop your company.

The cost to businesses who take on apprentices is minimal. You will need, of course, to pay a wage  and most apprenticeships are funded in some way or another (16-21 year-olds are fully-funded).

Apprenticeships usually last no more than one year and take the form of on the job training, with at least one day a week spent at college. At the end of the process you have a candidate who is experienced, qualified, motivated and, more importantly, loyal. After all, you gave them an opportunity.

For information about apprenticeship and working with a local college near you, call Dawn on 03330494007.