Job training and workforce development challenges facing the cleaning industry
10 January 2023
5min read time
Guide
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One of the biggest problems in the cleaning industry is staff retention and a high turnover rate. Because of this, job training and workforce development is often not given the focus it deserves.
With high demands from customers expecting more due to the pandemic, it is essential that cleaning businesses invest in the job training and work development of their staff. As your staff are at the forefront of your company job training and development can have a significant impact on the success.
What is the difference between job training vs. workforce development?
Cleaning job training refers to the specific skills and techniques required for a person to perform their duties effectively as a cleaner. This may include tasks such as training on how to use different cleaning products and equipment, understanding proper safety protocols and work and health safety requirements, and following a specific cleaning schedule or routine.
Workforce development, on the other hand, is a broader concept that encompasses the skills and knowledge needed for a person to succeed in a particular industry or occupation. It may include training in communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and other transferable soft skills that are valuable in any job.
Both cleaning job training and workforce development are important for ensuring that workers are prepared to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. However, while cleaning job training focuses specifically on the tasks and responsibilities of a cleaner, workforce development takes a broader approach, focusing on the skills and knowledge that are essential for success in any job.
What is the gap in training and workforce development in the cleaning industry?
There are several potential gaps in training and workforce development in the cleaning industry. Common issues include:
- Lack of comprehensive training programs
- Limited access to advanced training
- Lack of diversity in training programs
- Limited focus on transferable skills
Overall, these gaps in training and workforce development can lead to a lack of skilled and knowledgeable workers in the cleaning industry, which can have negative impacts on the quality of service and the overall success of the industry.
How can you close the gap in these areas of your business?
There are several ways to close the gap in training and workforce development in the cleaning industry:
- Offer comprehensive training programs: cleaning companies can invest in comprehensive training programs that cover all aspects of the job and provide workers with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
- Provide access to advanced training opportunities: Companies can offer advanced training opportunities, such as certification programs or leadership development courses, to help workers advance in their careers.
- Foster diversity in training programs: Companies can work to create training programs that are tailored to the needs and backgrounds of their diverse workforce, especially employees with English as a second language, to ensure inclusivity, fairness and the best chance for employees to engage with training and development opportunities.
- Focus on transferable skills: cleaning job training programs should place a strong emphasis on developing transferable skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
- Mentors: Use stand-out employees as champions in your existing workforce to share their knowledge and skills. Often getting knowledge from peers, as opposed to from management or formalised training programs, can deliver impressive results. The added benefit to this tactic is it provides career development opportunities and responsibility for those team members who have proved to be high performers.
By investing in training and workforce development, cleaning companies can ensure that they have skilled and knowledgeable workers who can provide high-quality service and contribute to the success of the industry.
Another organisational benefit of investing in the training and development of your workforce is the opportunity to increase employee engagement and reduce staff turnover.
To learn more on how Abco can help with training or advice, call us on 1800 177 399 or email sales@abcopro.com.au.
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