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Empowering Employment: Workforce Development with Zenith Training and Nexus

This case study examines the collaboration between Zenith Training, Nexus, and Job Centre Plus, which aims to address skill gaps and improve employability within the workforce. The Sector-Based Work Academy Program (SWAP) served as the framework for this initiative, enabling the delivery of targeted training and support to individuals seeking employment opportunities in the customer service sector.

The customer service industry demands a skilled workforce capable of handling diverse customer interactions, resolving issues efficiently, and maintaining a positive brand image. However, many individuals seeking employment in this sector may lack the skills and confidence to secure and excel in these roles.

To address this challenge, Zenith Training, Nexus, and Job Centre Plus collaborated to deliver a comprehensive SWAP programme tailored to the specific needs of the customer service industry. The programme focused on providing participants with the essential skills, knowledge, and practical experience required to succeed in customer-facing roles.

ClientNexus
SkillsSWAP/Bootcamp/Recruitment

Key Components

Bootcamp-Style-Training covered the likes of:

  • Customer Service Fundamentals, including managing customer expectations, meeting customer needs, and dealing with complaints.
  • Scenario-based learning, including de-escalating situations, showing empathy, and handling physical, mental, and emotional challenges.
  • Interview Preparation, such as dos and don’ts, competency-based questioning, and mock interviews.
  • Health and safety, including the importance of health and safety procedures, workplace hazards and risks, implications of poor health and safety practices, and rights and responsibilities.
  • Practical Skills, such as maps, timetables, and routes, and the phonetic alphabet.

Support and Guidance such as:

  • Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG), consisting of personalised career counselling, job search strategies, and CV writing interview techniques.
  • Online Application Support, including assistance with completing online application forms.
  • Employer Engagement: Tours Nexus facilities and meets and greets with Nexus staff.

Results and Impact

The SWAP programme, implemented by Zenith Training, Nexus, and Job Centre Plus, yielded significant positive outcomes:

  • Enhanced Employability: Participants gained the necessary skills and confidence to secure employment in customer service roles.
  • Improved Job Performance: The programme equipped participants with the practical skills and knowledge to excel in their new positions.
  • Stronger Employer-Candidate Relationships: The collaboration between the three organisations facilitated effective employer-candidate matching and reduced recruitment costs for businesses.
  • Positive Social Impact: By providing individuals with employment opportunities, the programme reduced unemployment rates and improved social well-being.

The SWAP programme, implemented through the collaboration of Zenith Training, Nexus, and Job Centre Plus, has proven an effective solution for addressing skill gaps and enhancing employability in the customer service sector. By providing targeted training, support, and guidance, the programme empowers individuals to succeed in their chosen careers contributing to the overall economic growth in the region.

Feedback

“Gave me confidence in applying for jobs.”

“How simple yet effective the course is when helping you learn.”

“The training can help you get back into employment.”

“More confident and gained more knowledge about Nexus.”

Candidates on Programme

Matthew's Journey to Nexus

Matthew Desire, 18, recently began his role at Nexus on Monday, 18th November, marking an exciting start to his professional career. This opportunity comes after a smooth and swift training and recruitment process from Zenith Training that more than exceeded his expectations.

What truly surprised Matthew was the speed of the process. After a couple of interviews, Matthew received an offer for a position at Nexus, which was a rapid turnaround compared to what he had anticipated. Following two years at Railway College, Matthew is confident that this opportunity is the perfect next step in his career.

One aspect of his experience with Zenith that Matthew particularly valued was the human-centred approach. The staff at Zenith were helpful, caring, and approachable, which made the entire process feel welcoming and open, in contrast to the more intimidating environments he had encountered in school and college. Zenith’s practical, straightforward explanations helped him easily grasp the key concepts he needed to succeed.

During his Nexus training day, Matthew also had the chance to meet Josh, a future colleague who will be working alongside him at Nexus. This connection has provided Matthew with a sense of camaraderie as he takes the next step in his professional journey.

Given his positive experience, Matthew has recommended Zenith to several of his friends who are looking for similar opportunities. He believes that Zenith offers a professional yet personable approach to training, making it an excellent choice for anyone preparing to enter the workforce.

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