Apprenticeships case study - Promo2u

What made you decide to employ apprentices?

We use cloud based software that links and automates as much of Promo2u’s admin work as possible - everything from marketing and order-processing to accounts and book keeping. By embracing and learning new technology, we decided that an apprenticeship programme would help us grow.

Last September, the Mayor recognised our efforts when Promo2u won London’s Best Small Business Apprentice Employer. We believe it’s really important to invest in young talent and use the latest technology. Guided by our seasoned staff, we’ve worked on some amazing projects, too, like the Olympics, to more recently helping Nokia, Initial Rentokil and other brands to promote their marketing messages.

How has your Apprenticeship programme benefited your business?

Our apprentice Waleed Ali introduced social media to Promo2u, as one of his first project. Now we use it all the time.

Tell us more about Waleed?

Waleed is hard working and quick to adapt. The speed at which changes are adopted is evidence that investing time in young people is worthwhile for a micro small- or medium-sized enterprise (SME).

How does hiring and managing apprentices compare with other routes?

The challenge is to keep an apprentice motivated and rewarded, in line how much they contribute to our business. We’ve done this by making it clear we’re offering a future full-time job, and identifying the expected salary levels once qualified. This approach has built trust and mutual commitment.

Would you recommend apprentices to other businesses?

Yes. Any business that wants to capitalise on the digital expertise that our young and talented people can offer in an office environment should hire an apprentice. To make sure you get the apprentice you want, meet with the training provider before interviewing candidates and ask for references from other happy customers who have employed the apprentices.

What is your apprentice doing today?

Waleed is helping us maintain our existing clients and keep in touch with prospects as well as overseeing our social media and marketing activities. He’ll also manage our new apprentice once appointed and, we hope, continue to transit into a senior management role at Promo2u.