In today’s ever changing catering industry, businesses face a unique challenge: the ideal candidate no longer exists. This isn’t to say that talent is scarce, but rather that the perfect blend of skills, experience, and readiness isn’t readily available in one package. Instead, we must focus on cultivating and nurturing the potential within individuals to create our own perfect candidates.
## Embracing the New Approach
The shift in the industry calls for a more proactive approach in talent acquisition and development. Instead of searching endlessly for candidates who tick every box, we need to invest in growing our own talent. This means identifying promising individuals who may not yet have all the required skills but show potential, eagerness to learn, and a passion for the industry.
## Working with Catering College Students
Catering colleges are a goldmine of untapped potential. Students come equipped with foundational knowledge and an interest for the industry, making them ideal candidates for further training and development. By collaborating with these institutions, businesses can play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of catering professionals.
### Practical Experience is Key
One of the most effective ways to nurture talent is through practical experience. Encourage students to take on part-time roles, and work placements within your business. Real-world experience is invaluable, and it’s through hands-on practice that students can hone their skills, understand the nuances of the industry, and apply their classroom knowledge in a practical setting. We have found it more and more difficult each year in our role to assist the schools and colleges gain work placements for their students.
### Our Jenny’s Return to the College
We are thrilled to share that our very own Jenny Cruickshanks, regularly returns to the catering colleges in the area to assist students with their CVs and career advice. Jenny’s experience and insights are invaluable, and she’s passionate about guiding students to maximise their potential. She emphasises the importance of gaining as much work experience as possible, encouraging students to seize every opportunity to learn and grow in the real world. For a small fee we also offer a matching service with the colleges, interviewing and matching our clients with the right students.
## The Benefits of Growing Your Own Talent
By investing in students from colleges, businesses can reap numerous benefits:
### Tailored Training
No matter the industry, when you train students within your own establishment, you can tailor their education to suit the specific needs and standards of your business. This ensures that they are not only skilled but also aligned with your company’s culture and values.
### Loyalty and Retention
Students who start their careers with your business are more likely to develop a sense of loyalty. They appreciate the investment you make in their future and are more inclined to stay with you long-term, reducing turnover rates and fostering a stable work environment.
### Fresh Ideas
Students bring fresh ideas and new outlooks. Their academic background combined with practical experience can lead to innovative solutions and improvements within your business.
## Conclusion
The catering industry especially must evolve with the changing landscape of talent acquisition. By focusing on growing our own talent and working closely with catering colleges, we can develop the skilled professionals our industry needs. The ideal candidate may not walk through the door fully formed, but with the right training, nurturing, and opportunities, we can create our own perfect candidates.
Let’s embrace this new approach, work with what we have, and build a brighter future for the catering industry together.
