Research shows 9 million adults lack basic functional skills (English and maths). Employees often worry about admitting to poor functional skills and adopt coping strategies rather than asking for help because of the fear of losing their job, not being promoted, or being seen as ineffective by colleagues and managers.
The problem can be easily overlooked, as workers often compensate for functional skills gaps by relying on colleagues, avoiding tasks, or spending excessive time on quality checks.
Upskilling your existing members of staff can be a more cost and time efficient way to bridge the skills gap in your business than recruitment. With a solid understanding of your business processes and requirements, employees will be able to focus on developing the specific skills they are lacking.
Not only that, but companies that focus on training functional skills internally also often see an improvement in employee morale, employee acquisition, and brand reputation.
What are functional skills?
Functional skills are the basic skills you need for everyday life. They include:
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English: Reading, writing, and speaking.
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Maths: Numbers, calculations, and problem-solving.
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ICT: Using computers and the internet.
When are functional skills needed in the workplace?
Functional skills are essential for success in the workplace. They’re constantly in demand, encompassing a wide range of activities. Effective communication is vital for interacting with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders through emails, reports, presentations, and meetings.
Numeracy skills are crucial for handling finances, analysing data, and making informed decisions, and proficiency in IT is essential for navigating today's digital workplace, including using computers, software, the internet, and other digital tools for various work tasks.
The importance of functional skills in the workplace
Functional skills, such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and digital literacy, are fundamental for a thriving workforce. These skills empower employees to enhance productivity and efficiency by streamlining workflows and improving decision-making.
Investing in functional skills training demonstrates a commitment to employee development, boosting morale and fostering a positive work environment. This leads to increased employee engagement and retention.
Strong functional skills are crucial for providing excellent customer service and communication amongst colleagues.
By equipping employees with these essential skills, organisations can foster innovation and adaptability, enabling them to embrace new challenges and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Short courses for functional skills
Short courses can help your employees upskill in specific areas that will improve their overall workplace capabilities.
We offer short courses in Functional Skills that are suitable for employees looking to improve their English and maths skills.
Looking for more workplace short courses? Take a look at short courses offered by our sister-organisation MOL Learn.
7 reasons to invest in functional skills for your workforce:
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Increased job satisfaction and morale among employees
Investing time, money and resources in training makes your employees feel valued. Employees who feel appreciated and challenged through training opportunities are more likely to feel satisfied towards their job, increasing the overall morale!
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Increased employee motivation
When employees possess the skills they need to succeed, their confidence soars. This increased confidence translates into greater motivation.
They feel more empowered to tackle challenges, are more likely to embrace new opportunities, and experience a greater sense of accomplishment. This positive cycle of skill development and increased motivation fosters a more engaged and productive workforce.
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Increased efficiencies in processes, resulting in financial gain
Studies have shown that productivity increases when a company invests in training. With an increased efficiency, tasks are completed more successfully, improving the company’s turnover.
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Increased capacity to adopt new technologies and methods
If the training program addresses an employee’s weaknesses and strengthens, it will ensure that everyone is on the same page! This means that all your employees will share similar skills and knowledge, making it easier to adopt any changes within the company such as new technologies or methods.
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Increased innovation in strategies and products
Functional skills training goes beyond simply improving existing job performance. It empowers employees with new knowledge, skills, and perspectives. This expanded skillset encourages creative thinking and problem-solving. Employees are better equipped to brainstorm, collaborate, and develop innovative solutions that drive business growth.
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Reduced employee turnover
A valued and challenged employee will be more engaged and less likely to leave the company. Even though initial costs in training might seem pricey, it will be worth it when your recruitment costs decrease.
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Improved decision making
When employees possess strong functional skills, they are better equipped to analyse information, evaluate options, and make informed decisions. This leads to more effective problem-solving, reduced errors, and improved overall business outcomes.
Functional skills short courses
Investing in your employees' functional skills development is not just about improving individual performance; it's an investment in the overall success of your business.
By equipping your team with strong communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills, you empower them to excel in their roles, drive innovation, and contribute significantly to your organisation's growth.
Choose Total People as your trusted partner in workforce development. Our comprehensive and targeted Functional Skills courses are designed to equip your employees with the essential skills they need to succeed in today's dynamic workplace. Contact us today
