Apprenticeships provide a valuable opportunity for organisations to cultivate a skilled workforce while offering individuals in their community a chance to learn, earn and grow in their chosen skillsets.
The introduction of apprenticeship Standards, written for employers by employers means that those completing a role-relevant apprenticeship are considered more rounded individuals who, as well as having the relevant technical skills, also display behaviours and attitudes which their role, their industry and their employer requires of them.
And they are on the increase! There were 130,830 apprenticeship starts between August and October 2023 – up by 7% from the previous year, while apprenticeship achievements have also increased by 22% to 37,400 compared to last year.
Benefits to employers of apprenticeships
With role relevant funded training, functional skills coaching, mentoring and support from industry experts, it’s not hard to see why employers value apprenticeships. Apprentices can join straight from school or college and be trained to align their knowledge, skills and behaviours with a company’s culture or ethos.
Many businesses see the added value an apprenticeship programme has over an in-house training programme as it comes with extra support, pastoral care, mentoring and regular coaching from a chosen training provider.
Apprentice Recruitment
Recruiting for apprenticeships can however be challenging. To supercharge your apprentice recruitment strategies and attract the best candidates, we recommend that businesses consider the following strategies:
1. Develop a Comprehensive Recruitment Strategy
To be successful, first you need a plan. Start by creating a well-defined recruitment strategy that includes the positions that apprentices will fill, and which outlines your goals, target audience, messaging, and recruitment channels.
Although they may not have much work experience, it is still worth determining the qualities you are looking for in apprentices, being clear on what their daily duties and responsibilities will be, creating relevant job descriptions and personal specifications that clearly communicate your expectations alongside the benefits of joining your organisation as an apprentice.
A comprehensive career plan that can act as a roadmap for your apprentice recruits is worth the effort. as well as showing them opportunities for development, it will help ensure consistency in your messaging.
2. Collaborate with Schools and Colleges
Forge strong partnerships with local schools, colleges, and vocational training institutions that deliver the sort of apprenticeships you are interested in. Attend career fairs, host information sessions, and participate in local apprentice recruitment events. Establishing connections with educational institutions in your area or that specialise in your sector will allow you to tap into a pool of talented students who are actively seeking apprenticeship opportunities.
3. Leverage Digital Platforms
Fundamental to any apprentice recruitment strategy is your use of online platforms. First, ensure your organisation’s website, career pages and social media channels all regularly promote your apprenticeship opportunities.
Next optimise your digital presence and create engaging content that targets potential candidates. Consider using video as a way of showcasing the opportunities you offer, with testimonials from current or past apprentices to demonstrate the benefits and experiences of being part of your programme.
Then select your apprentice job boards; there are multiple jobsites including the National Apprenticeship Service (Find an Apprenticeship), NotGoingtoUni (NGTU), Find a Job, GetMyFirstJob, CareerMap, Total Jobs, Reed, indeed, plus social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook LinkedIn and others that you should consider posting to.
Once your apprenticeship vacancies are live, you will also need to make sure that your recruitment team or training partner- if they are managing recruitment on your behalf is able to maintain contact and have regular engagement with potential applicants through a variety of digital interactions. They will need to be able to answer questions, respond to queries, and provide timely updates, while also providing information on prospective interviews.
Finally, for the best results, implement a solution that can join all of these elements together, from your website to job boards and social media channels to your applicant tracking system to provide a seamless experience.
The JustApply system has been designed specifically for Apprentice Recruitment and manages all of the associated admin processes from vacancy creation, advertising, screening, shortlisting and selection through to onboarding. Click below FOR A DEMO/BOOK A CALL or to ask about Training Organisations using JustApply that work in your sector(s).
4. Engage with Local Communities
Engaging with your local community can help create brand awareness and generate interest in your apprenticeship programmes. Sponsor local events, participate in community outreach programs, and collaborate with local organisations. By actively participating in community initiatives, you not only contribute positively but also showcase your organisation’s commitment to developing local talent.
5. Establish Mentorship Schemes within your organisation
For someone new to the world of work, a first job can be daunting. Offering mentorship opportunities to your apprentices can be an attractive aspect of your apprenticeship programme. Mentorship provides valuable guidance and support to apprentices, while helping them navigate their career paths. Utilise the network of experienced professionals within your workforce to serve as mentors. Highlight the mentorship aspect in your recruitment materials and emphasise the long-term benefits it can provide to apprentices in your business.
6. Provide Competitive Compensation and Benefits
To attract top talent, ensure that your compensation and benefits package is competitive. There is a National Apprenticeship Minimum Wage, but many employers choose to pay more than this and not unsurprisingly receive more applications Research industry standards and salary ranges for apprentice positions to ensure you are offering an attractive package. Additionally, consider providing additional benefits such as travel assistance, subsidised meals and definitely highlight opportunities for advancement or further training.
7. Streamline the Application and Selection Process
Make the application and selection process as seamless as possible for potential candidates. Simplify online applications by providing clear instructions and user-friendly forms. Streamline your interview and assessment process, ensuring timely communication with applicants. A smooth process will enhance the candidate experience and leave a positive impression of your organisation.
FERMs JustApply is an end-to- end recruitment solution that offers colleges and training providers a customisable job board, applicant tracking system and sector specific CRM system all in one. Click below FOR A DEMO/BOOK A CALL
8. Develop a Strong Employee Brand Proposition
Building a strong employee brand is crucial in attracting top-quality talent, from apprentices all the way up to senior leaders. Highlight your organisation’s commitment to employee development, career growth opportunities, and a positive work environment. Share success stories of past apprentices and highlight their achievements within your organisation. Invest in employee testimonials and showcase the impact apprentices have had on your business. Make these assets part of the recruitment process.
By incorporating these strategies into your apprentice recruitment plans, you can supercharge your efforts and attract high-quality candidates who are eager to learn and contribute to business growth.
Remember to continually evaluate and fine-tune your apprentice recruitment process to adopt solutions that drive efficiencies and that adapt to changing market trends and evolving candidate expectations.
Our JustApply software offers a full apprentice recruitment package that posts vacancies, integrates with jobs boards, attracts, screens and supplies candidates for your apprenticeship roles.
If you would like to know more about this complete Apprentice Recruitment solution, get in touch/book a call below.
