Greater value on upskilling fleet teams as growing headcount ‘not an option’

Companies across the UK’s vehicle rental, leasing and fleet sectors are placing greater value on upskilling their teams, according to the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA).

The trade body says that this has been demonstrated by it achieving another record-breaking year for its learning and development programme.

The milestone is indicative of an expanding trend after 2021 was a record year itself, it said. 

With a highly competitive job market and uncertain economic landscape, growing headcount is either not in scope or not possible, according to the association’s latest Business Impact Survey.

It shows that while 94% expect staffing levels to remain the same or increase over the next 12 months, 54% are struggling with the recruitment of new staff. 

This landscape has pushed more managers to see the value in expanding the capabilities of their existing team members.

The varied programme provided by the BVRLA is set to surpass 1,000 delegates trained this year, with an average of three courses running every week. 

Nora Leggett, HR director and learning and development lead at the BVRLA, said: “Companies are facing an ever-changing landscape where the goalposts are constantly moving. New regulations are coming and customer expectations are higher than ever. “

She continued: “The best way of keeping up with those changes is to invest in the people already in the workplace.

“They know how the company works and the values it represents. Upskilling them in targeted areas is a quick, effective and low-risk way of improving overall standards and maintaining pace with a rapidly evolving market.” 

During 2022, courses offered by the BVRLA received an average rating of 4.7 out of five, and 89% of delegates saying they would recommend the programme to others. 

“We are proud to offer a fully flexible programme to meet the needs of companies of all sizes,” said Leggett. “Whether looking to train one or two members or a full team, the BVRLA programme contains a blend of online, virtual and in-person courses to ensure all development objectives can be met.”

The BVRLA learning and development programme is open to all industry professionals, with BVRLA members receiving reduced rates.

Courses cover a wide range of topics, spanning EV technology and handling customer complaints, to selling different service products and monitoring Fair Wear & Tear standards. Full details are available on the BVRLA website or by emailing training@bvrla.co.uk.