Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Well trained staff could be vital in securing contracts

by Ethos public relations

With the end of the Decent Homes Standard, specific funding cuts which will choke social sector housing growth and the hike in VAT - builders working in the social housing sector are looking at ways to develop their competitive advantage.

Chloe Weatherhead, Manager of the Housing e-Academy which has hundreds of social housing sector clients said housing associations are looking to work a lot smarter with Value for Money even more of a driving force.

“Contractors looking to secure or renew work in the sector will have to examine every element of their offering to ensure they improve their competitive edge and make working with them more compelling than working with anyone else.  Price will of course remain key - but contractors should also be looking at added value.”

Customer care, equality and diversity, confidentiality and conflict resolution are all important issues for people working in the homes of social residents. Having operatives trained in issues like these could well be the competitive advantage that secures a contract.

“E-learning is ideal for people working in the building trade,” said Chloe.  “It allows the learner to dip in and out so they can work around other commitments. It also allows them to work in a way that suits their learning style and pace – without feeling any pressure from their peers.

“From a business perspective it can also be the most cost effective way of training staff and as the purse strings get pulled ever tighter – it is becoming the training method of choice for many organisations.”

The abilities of front line staff say a lot about a business.  Get this wrong and your reputation could be ruined very quickly.

“Everyone has heard one nightmare story about an operative who caused a major headache or PR disaster for both the contractor and its client,” said Chloe.  “Having appropriately trained staff can make all the difference to your reputation and reputation is one of the factors that will help to secure a contract.

“E-learning makes staff training very affordable and having a well trained staff could be your competitive advantage.”

For more information about e-learning call 01943 885085 or e-mail info@housingea.co.uk

Posted at 28^th July 2010