The parking sector must recognise the huge business value of a well-trained workforce and target spending accordingly

摘要

Traditionally, the parking industry has devoted little time or energy to raising staff standards, frequently relying on the absolute basics for most employee training. Alan Ashbee, chief executive of parking operator Q-Park, says that training in the parking sector has traditionally meant new staff being shown the ropes by a co-worker, handed a generic booklet on health and safety before being left to their own devices. But the commercial benefits of a well-trained workforce are significant, he argues. "The parking industry operates in a fiercely competitive environment, and the importance of implementing well-designed staff training as a key tool for achieving and maintaining profitability cannot be overlooked," he says. "Rather than being at the bottom of a spending priorities list, if at all, the place for training investment should be right at the top." There is a clear link between a carefully structured training plan and improved efficiency, according to Ashbee. He cites lower staff turnover and positive customer responses to care and service at the car parks: "Staff are motivated to perform well on this basis, backed by bonus, staff suggestion and incentive schemes."