Skills shortages are presenting challenges for Australian businesses. Consequences range from productivity losses to the complete shutdown of key departments where the requisite skilled staff are not present. To prevent further stagnation, businesses are being urged to consider ways to upskill their current staff to fill the gaps. 

An Investment in Cost Savings and Company Culture

Historically, businesses have been hesitant to invest in upskilling staff, concerned that staff would use the acquisition of new skills to secure better roles elsewhere. However, staff surveys show that people prefer workplaces where they are valued and offered opportunities to grow and progress. 

In addition, businesses can capitalise on significant cost savings when upskilling existing staff. While on the surface, accredited courses can appear expensive, this cost is nothing compared to the costs of recruitment which include the advertising and recruitment process right through to onboarding. 

New employees can take a year or more to fully settle in and learn the ropes. Part of this learning includes figuring out the ‘who’s who’ of the company, getting comfortable with the filing systems and understanding the annual business cycle. An existing employee can hit the ground running more quickly because they are already familiar with many of the day-to-day operations.

Additional benefits of training existing staff include increased staff retention and an improved company culture. 

Accredited Training for Faster Upskilling

Companies can upskill their existing staff relatively easily and cost-effectively. Many opportunities exist to study certificate courses online with respected training providers.

For example, a staff member can study a Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety while continuing their current role, gradually transitioning into the role of WHS Officer. Similar opportunities exist for companies seeking to upskill staff within industries including Health, ICT and Telecommunications, and Community Service. And with recognition of prior learning (RPL), qualifications can be significantly fast-tracked. 

And for those companies looking to upskill staff into senior positions, there are post-graduate courses online that simplify the process. For example, a Graduate Diploma in Portfolio Management will provide staff with the necessary technical know-how to fill the role of Project Management Director. 

Businesses can lead the way in improving productivity and boosting company morale by investing in their most important asset – their people. 


About the author


This contribution is by Ben Klatt, CEO of Skills Recognition International with over 20 years experience in training and human resources. Ben has developed a vocational and training resource outside the traditional delivery models in a drive to disrupt the education industry with new technology, research and innovative training. Ben utilises an in-depth knowledge of the latest business and industry trends, combined with comprehensive learning resources delivered by expertly trained and qualified staff, to produce a high quality service for business clients and students.