Training 56 www.aftermarketonline.net JULY/AUGUST 2024 Aftermarket recruitment specialists GCA underlines the importance of maximising transferable skills and untapped allied sectors Glen Callum Associates (GCA), a recruitment company specialising in the automotive aftermarket sector, is calling on industry leaders to broaden their talent search to include allied sectors and focus on transferable skills to address the growing skills gap. GCA director Kerrie Richards said: “We appreciate that many professionals choose to stay within the automotive industry, which is great news for the sector, but it’s crucial to recognise the value of allied industries and the transferable skills they offer.” Passion and the ability to learn new skills can be as important as direct industry experience, which is often quite similar across multiple sectors, Richards said. GCA recognises the persistent issue of skills shortages in the automotive aftermarket and believes the solution lies in expanding the talent pool. By looking beyond traditional boundaries, businesses can benefit from fresh perspectives and innovative approaches brought by professionals from different backgrounds. In addition to widening the talent pool, it’s vital to adopt an environment where experienced professionals can mentor new entrants, including graduates or those from other sectors, Richards said. “We’re seeing many people opting to retire later and continue in their roles for longer, and it’s important to utilise their expertise where possible to train new entrants. This exchange of insight and experience not only helps bridge the skills gap but also enriches the industry with diverse ideas and approaches.” To assist companies in identifying and recruiting top talent from allied sectors, GCA suggests creating a checklist of skills specific to the role in question. Advancing diversity through skillsbased hiring is another key aspect of GCA’s strategy. A skills-based approach not only helps identify the most qualified talent but also opens the door to individuals from historically marginalised groups who may lack a traditional degree, according to the company. LinkedIn data shows that focusing on skills can increase talent pools by 10x, GCA said. Furthermore, 80% of surveyed recruiting professionals state their organisations are committed to creating a more diverse workforce, and skillsbased hiring is set to gain traction in the coming years. Many companies are already taking steps towards this by removing degree requirements from their job descriptions. According to recent surveys, 73% of recruiting professionals say hiring based on skills is a priority. To enhance your recruitment strategy, email jobs@glencallum.co.uk or visit https://glencallum.co.uk for more information. Garage Services Online is offering garages free training with Andy Savva, The Garage Inspector. The offer is open to the first 15 garages that sign up for a website with GSO until the end of July 2024, but places are limited so don’t delay. GSO said its websites have been proven to help change the profile of work and enquiries for garages. Coupled with the skills learnt from Andy Savva, garage owners are placed in the best position to select the type of work they want to attract and run their garage business in the most profitable and stress-free way. Garage owners can choose from any of Savva’s courses which run throughout the year and include financial understanding and marketing essentials, leadership and quality management, customer excellence and front of house essentials. These can be attended in person as a two-day course or online free while the offer is available. GSO’s Jim Lang said: “This is an exciting and valuable offer for any busy garage owner who wants to increase efficiency and profitability. “There are no upfront fees for our websites so garages can easily take advantage of our services. We create the ability for our customers to compete against main dealers and the chains who have far greater budgets in their local customer catchment areas. “That, combined with the skills owners and technicians will learn from attending one of Andy’s courses for free, is a winning combination.” To find out more, visit https:// garage-services-online.co.uk/ thegarageinspector to complete the ‘one-minute form’. GSO free course offer for garages Bridging the skills gap faster
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=