Further research estimates that management deficiencies account for 10–15% of the productivity gap in the UK and the government's own research confirms that management training further improves workforce skills development threefold. In the current economic conditions, this is an area where smaller businesses can bring about real competitive advantage particularly with funding for leadership and management training under the Train to Gain service extended to businesses with 5-999 employees. Read more on training and developing managers.
Train to Gain is a service that operates regionally throughout England. Train to Gain skills advisers offer free and impartial advice to business on how to identify and meet their training needs. Find out more about the Train to Gain offer.
Development in a successful business doesn't only apply to your staff. In order to recognise and fully develop the skills your business needs to succeed, there are certain skills which you as an owner or a manager will have to develop – and especially so in times of economic difficulty and organisational change. Effective leadership is vital to fully utilise the skills of staff in order to achieve the aims of the business. This isn't just a matter for larger businesses - even if you only employ one or two people you still need to make sure that you make the most of their abilities and aptitudes. For further information about the kinds of skills that business owners need, see our guide on skills and training for directors and owners.
Further informationBusiness Link's information library gives you instant access to information and tools to help you tackle key business issues. View our full range of guides on leading staff through growth.
Access to help and supportIf you would like to talk about investing in leadership and management and how we could support your business, call the business adviser team on 0845 00 66 888 or use our contact us form.