Even learning a new technology or downloading a new app on one’s mobile device challenges the mind. Something as simple as downloading a helpful, industry-specific app to a mobile device, can provide pool and spa service professionals new insight into water chemistry and offer techs a powerful tool with an added mental exercise bonus.
Continuing education in various forms can also lead to amazing and unexpected networking, as well as access to opportunities, for instance, finding seasonal and eventually long-term employees.
Nuzzo shares that she has a regular stream of new, young employees as a direct result of keeping education central to the way Arvidson does business.
“I have built close relationships with the science chairs in our local high-schools and offer science students an opportunity to learn real-life chemistry lessons in our stores,” she says. “We offer internships that turn into summer jobs and science students really enjoy continuing their education in our stores which has led to a regular stream of great employees who tend to come back every summer while in high school and even college, too.”
Education can also benefit the company’s bottom line
Continuing to gain new certifications, training, and education is necessary for pool and spa businesses who want to retain and recruit new and better employees. Education is a benefit not only to employees but to businesses as well. Employees who have more skills tend to be more satisfied and willing to take on new responsibilities or allow a company to take on new business offerings and avoid having to outsource profitable business opportunities.
Education is truly a win-win for employers and employees. Investing in continued education provides networking opportunities, promotes innovation, and helps employees stay sharp, engaged, and satisfied with their jobs and their employer. Investing in human capital is one of the best ways pool and spa businesses can solve the challenges of a tight labour market.
Author
Alicia Stephens is the director of training and education for Biolab Inc. In her 22 years with the company, she has focused primarily on education, training, and development, as well as technical support and new product research and integration. Currently, Stephens supports all branding, education, and training initiatives for the Biolab Pro Dealer division. She can be reached via email at alicia.stephens@biolabinc.com.
