News and features

Wed, 10 Jun 2009

Staff training 'improves loyalty and motivation levels'

Firms looking to boost motivation levels during the recession could find that offering staff training programmes help, an expert has suggested.

Staff training could be an effective way to increase productivity and loyalty among a workforce, it has been claimed. According to Rufus Hall, chief executive of pub group Orchid, it is worth investing in people within a company because it encourages loyalty to the business, reports BigHospitality.com.

Orchid recently announced that it was running a number of staff training schemes and incentives. "Investing in people increases loyalty and improves motivation levels. We make sure training needs are met, talents are nurtured, key strengths are developed and, most importantly, individuals' career goals achieved," Mr Hall commented. The firm has implemented its own training initiative called Steps to Excellence, which enables deputy managers to acquire the skills to manage a pub.

It has also started a Chef Academy where chefs can complete training courses outside of the company. As well as taking independent steps to improve staff training, the firm has signed a skills pledge, which is a public commitment to help all of its employees improve their skills. Under the terms of the pledge, the firm will support workers in getting relevant and valuable qualifications. Mr Hall said: "When times are tough, many companies make the mistake of viewing staff training and incentives as non-essential." However, he said this is a "false economy" because staff training reduces the turnover of workers and boosts morale, productivity and motivation. This comes after the Learning and Skills Council said firms should conduct a skills audit to establish who in their organisation would benefit from staff training.

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