How to Get the Best Out of Your Trainee in the Workplace

08 November 2024

Employers are recognising the value that young people bring to the workplace. With fresh perspectives, new ideas, and a sense of enthusiasm, young people can truly elevate your organisation.

In industries like education and care, where innovation and compassion are key, young people can be an incredible asset. However, to get the best out of your team, it’s essential to create an environment that fosters their growth, supports their well-being, and taps into their strengths.

Here are key strategies that can help you empower your trainees, boost retention, and create a thriving workplace culture.

Create a Positive Work Environment

A welcoming and inclusive workplace is foundational to the success of your trainees. When young people feel respected, supported, and appreciated, they are more likely to engage fully in their roles and contribute meaningfully to the team.

According to research by the Australian Human Rights Commission, a positive work environment enhances employee morale, reduces stress, and contributes to greater overall job satisfaction.

Tips to foster a positive work environment:

Mentorship Programs: Pair trainees with experienced mentors to help them feel supported and valued.
Encouraging Open Communication: Create opportunities for trainees to express their ideas and concerns. Regular check-ins and open-door policies can make a big difference.
Celebrate Achievements: Recognise and celebrate even small successes to build confidence and show appreciation.

Invest in Training and Development

Young employees are eager to learn and grow. By providing them with continuous learning opportunities, you not only enhance their skills but also build their loyalty to your organisation.

A report from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research highlights that continuous training contributes to higher job satisfaction and productivity, especially among younger workers who are looking to advance in their careers.

At Y Careers, our trainees study a nationally recognised qualification and receive hands-on, continuous learning on the job. Our trainees will also get the opportunity to attain mico-credentials- a collection of professional skills for career advancement.

Y Careers Employer partners will benefit from a dedicated career coach, providing holistic support to both the supervisor and trainee maximising program success.

Tips to support training and development:

Offer Workshops and Courses: Bring in experts to lead workshops or offer access to online learning platforms.
On-the-Job Training: Encourage hands-on learning where they can acquire skills directly relevant to their roles.
Set Career Goals Together: Work with young employees to identify their career goals and create development plans that support these aspirations.

Encourage Work-Life Balance

The concept of work-life balance is especially important for younger generations, who highly value flexibility and personal time.

A report by social impact organisation Y Lab found that 87.5% of young workers that were survived expressed a desire for consistent work hours. Options like part-time roles, and jobs in easily accessible locations were also particularly sought after.

We understand young people’s need for work-life balance, which is why we offer both part-time and full-time traineeships, so there is something to suit everyone! Traineeships in Outside School Cares care add additional balance, with work hours being early mornings and afternoons.

Tips to support work-life balance:

Flexible Hours: Allowing flexible hours when possible can help your trainees manage their time more effectively, and show a commitment to their well-being, which can boost morale and increase productivity.
Respect Personal Boundaries: Ensure that your trainees know they don’t need to respond to work emails or messages outside their working hours.
Encourage Taking Breaks: Advocate for regular breaks during the workday and encourage them to fully disconnect during holidays or time off.

Embrace Technology and Innovation

Young employees are often tech-savvy and eager to leverage technology to improve workflows and increase efficiency. Encouraging them to bring their digital skills and innovative ideas into the workplace can lead to greater efficiency and even inspire other team members to embrace new tools.

Research from Deloitte’s “Millennials and Gen Z in the Workplace” survey shows that young employees feel more engaged when they have the freedom to propose innovative solutions.

At the end of a Y Careers traineeship, our trainees are offered a chance to join our Entrepreneurs program.

Tips to promote innovation and tech usage:

Create a Platform for Ideas: Encourage young employees to share their tech-driven solutions and ideas with the team.
Incorporate Digital Tools: Invest in project management, collaboration tools, and other digital platforms that young people are often familiar with and can use to streamline workflows.
Champion Change: When a young person suggests a new tool or process, consider piloting it and supporting its adoption to show your commitment to innovation.

Foster Team Collaboration

Collaboration is key to a dynamic workplace, and young people thrive in environments where teamwork and idea-sharing are encouraged. A collaborative work culture enhances engagement, sparks creativity, and allows employees to learn from one another.

Tips for building team collaboration:

Encourage Cross-Departmental Projects: Giving young employees the chance to work with various teams allows them to gain broader insights and perspectives.
Hold Regular Team Meetings: Weekly or bi-weekly check-ins where everyone can contribute ideas to foster a sense of belonging and teamwork.
Support Peer Learning: Create opportunities for young employees to learn from each other, whether through knowledge-sharing sessions or peer-led discussions.

The Wrap Up

Creating an environment that values and supports young people is essential for maximising their potential and building a resilient, high-performing team.

By fostering a positive workplace culture, offering growth opportunities, encouraging balance, and promoting collaboration, you empower young employees to not only excel in their roles but also to become invested, long-term contributors to your success!

To learn more about employing a Y Careers trainee, reach out to our National Partnerships Manager, Michael Oosterwyk, at michael.oosterwyk@ycareers.org.au or call 0407 948 229.