Blog

NZ has a big problem.

It has a rapidly growing population with a housing shortage.

Our building industry can’t keep up with the demand. Building companies are having to say no to work because they don’t have the manpower. And it’s becoming a bit of a worry.

You see with 50,000 Tradespeople needed over the next five years we need tradies now, more than ever.

And the way into a Tradie career is by giving people the opportunity of an apprenticeship.

That’s where you come in.

If you’re in the position to take on apprentices, you can help, and here’s how.

(And if you’re not that type of position, tell your boss to read this!)

You’ll have support

It can be quite daunting having the responsibility of an apprentice, but you’re not alone.

The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) provides a bunch of support for companies taking on apprentices. With things like;

- Recruiting the right apprentice

- Providing a training programme

- Access to funding

- Support for the whole process

Sing the praises

There’s a reason why you became a tradesman, when you’re talking with potential apprentices make sure they know all the perks of being a Tradie. And if you’ve forgotten, here’s a reminder.

- They can earn a wage whilst they learn

- Unlike other careers, they won’t have any student debt

- They’ll be in demand and never out of work

- They can travel with it

- It’s a career for life

Grow and improve your team

Still not convinced? Here are 4 great ways taking on an apprentice actually strengthens your team.

Team diversity. It allows your more experienced staff to do what they’re good at, whilst leaving the apprentice to learn from the bottom up.

Team dynamic. Adding a new fresh face to the team can mix things up and create a fun, productive environment for everyone.

Loyalty. Once your apprentice is onboard, you’ll be creating a strong loyalty that they’ll appreciate. It’s a great way to retain loyal staff members for a long time.

Diversity. Train your apprentice in a way that suits your business and meets the business needs, giving you diversity in your workforce.

Become a mentor

There’s something so satisfying about being a mentor.

Whether it’s yourself or your senior staff, becoming a mentor for an apprentice can be a great opportunity to grow and learn new skills of your own.

It’s great for communication skills, staff management and job satisfaction.

Go on, do it for NZ

Having an apprentice won’t only benefit you, your team and your business, it’ll be doing right by NZ too.

With plenty of support from BCITO and their online resources for employers you’ll be up and running with an eager apprentice in no time.