Q: Following news of the drop in University applications, how can I attract the best apprentices to my business?
Nov 02 2011
Answered by: Peter Done Ask a question
The simple answer to this is by making sure that the apprenticeship that you offer is the best available. People are being put off from applying to university because of the costs involved with little guarantee of any rewards. You need to demonstrate the benefits that taking up an apprenticeship with you will bring.
Consider what training you can offer to any apprentices and if there are any special or unique skills and insights you can offer to your apprentices that they will not get anywhere else. Look at what is being offered on other apprenticeships and see what you can offer that will make yours more attractive such as wider business skills.
Speak to the local colleges about apprenticeship schemes and see if you can design something with them that really meets the needs of those considering apprenticeships. They are looking for something that will put them in the best position to obtain decent paid work at the end of it. You need to ensure that at the end your apprentice will have useful skills and a recognised qualification.
Remember that no matter how well you design your apprenticeship you cannot attract the best candidates if they don’t know about it and cannot find out. See if your local authority has a list of approved apprenticeship providers and find out what you need to do to get on it.
Work with the local schools as a provider of work experience and consider attending careers day so that you are known to those students considering apprenticeships making you more attractive when these students are considering this option. This can also give you the opportunity to identify suitable candidates and approach them directly.
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