Whether you are just starting out with a career in construction or are looking for a new role in the sector that utilises your years of experience, it is important to prepare for interviews so that you can make the best impression possible. In this article we will explore common interview questions for construction workers and guidance on how to answer them. We will also provide suggestions on what questions you should consider asking the interviewer and the best attire for the interview. 

Construction Interview Questions

The area of construction which you choose to pursue will greatly influence the questions that you are asked. Certain areas of construction work require specialist knowledge or qualifications, so you should expect to be asked technical questions relating to these specialisms in detail. Nevertheless, there are common interview questions which you are likely to be asked irrespective of which area of construction you are applying for. 

Below you will find 10 questions that you may be asked during an interview for a position in construction and points to consider in your answer. The ‘answers’ to these questions highlight key points you should try to mention as well as some insight into why you may be asked them. However, it is important to remember that they are a general guide and shouldn’t be memorised and repeated verbatim. Use them in conjunction with your experience and own research of the role and company to help you prepare and feel confident before the interview. 

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Questions to Ask a Construction Company in an Interview

It might not always feel like it but interviews are a two-way street and as much an opportunity for you to learn about the company, as it is for them to learn about you. Asking questions at the end of an interview provides you with deeper insight into the company and the people you may end up working with, as well as showing an enthusiastic interest in the position. It’s a good idea to have some questions prepared ahead of time, ready for the end of the interview. If you find that the answers to those questions came up organically at some point during the interview, don’t be afraid to mention the questions you had planned and how they’ve already been answered. 

It’s a good idea to have a mix of company specific, role specific and wrap up questions, but don’t bombard the interviewer. If you prepare a list of 10 questions, it might be that time only allows for 4 or that by the end of the interview only 2 feel pertinent. Conversely, the interviewer may mention something that sparks a question you hadn’t thought of before. Make a quick note of it and be sure to bring it up when given the chance. For example, ‘You mentioned earlier that your business is committed to promoting diversity. What methods do you use to facilitate this?’

Below you will find some useful questions to ask a prospective employer at the end of an interview. 

• Is there anything from my CV or that I have said that you would like me to clarify in further detail?

• What continuing professional development opportunities are available at this company?

• If I were successful in attaining the role, where would you see me in six months?

• The construction industry is expected to see an economic boost this year after a decline in 2024. How will this impact your business and the responsibilities of this role? 

• What challenges are the company currently facing and how are you seeking to overcome them?

Construction Job Interview Attire

The general rule of thumb when deciding what to wear to an interview is smart, business attire. However, you don’t find those working on a construction site laying bricks or operating cranes in a three piece suit. Your attire at an interview is important as it shows your professionalism and helps to cement a good first impression. Nevertheless, it should be reflective of the role and industry that you are interviewing for. 

As such, the best construction job interview attire is smart/business casual. Avoid wearing jeans and instead opt for dark trousers or a skirt, with a plain long-sleeved shirt. Depending on the role that you are applying for you may decide to wear a tie, however, if your position is likely to be more site based then you don’t need to wear one.  Keep your footwear simple and closed toe, avoiding trainers or excessively high heels. 

If you are unsure or have been invited to a more informal interview, remember you can always ask. You may worry that this could come across negatively to a prospective employer but it is better to be safe than sorry and asking shows your eagerness to meet their expectations whilst avoiding ambiguity, both of which are valuable traits for a prospective employee to have. 

Thorough interview preparation is vital to making a good and lasting first impression. Interviews can be daunting and nerves are to be expected. However, preparation in advance, thorough research of the company and a robust knowledge of the industry can help you to feel more relaxed and confident in yourself and what you have to offer. 

Further Resources:

• What are Safe Systems of Work?
• How to Use the STAR Method
• Online Health and Safety Courses

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Section 57 of the act, which will come into force on 31st March 2025, seeks to support the government’s aim to eliminate all avoidable food waste ending up in landfills by 2030. Under the act, it is mandatory for all non-domestic properties that produce any food waste to arrange separate collection by licensed waste carriers. The act applies to all businesses and public and third-sector organisations such as, but not limited to; restaurants, pubs, hospitals, prisons, care homes and schools etc. Businesses with fewer than 10 full-time employees, also known as micro-businesses, will not have to comply with the new legislation till 31st March 2027. 

In this article we will explain what waste separation is and what the new regulations are under the Environment Act 2021. This article will help you to understand your responsibilities and provide you with a range of free downloadable posters to act as a reminder of the new legislation and encourage the proper separation of waste. 

What is Waste Separation?

Waste separation refers to the sorting and separating of waste into different elements in order to facilitate recycling and appropriate disposal. There is no legal or universally accepted definition of ‘food waste,’ however the Separation of Waste (England) Regulations 2024 defines food waste as ‘biodegradable material resulting from the processing or preparation of food and drink including inedible food parts such as bones, eggshells, fruit and vegetable skins, tea bags and coffee grounds.’ 

Whilst the new legislation makes waste separation mandatory for non-domestic properties, it is something that most people have been doing in their households for years. In 2003 the government introduced the Household Waste Recycling Act which meant that every local authority had to provide households with separate recycling collection. The introduction of recycling wheelie bins saw waste separation become the norm for most households. The new act brings this same level of responsibility to businesses, seeking to reduce the environmental impact of the waste that they generate, whilst highlighting the importance of corporate social responsibility. 

Food Waste Legislation

From 31st March 2025 (or 31st March 2027 for micro-businesses) all businesses and non-domestic premises will have to comply with new food waste separation legislation. Under the Environment Act 2021 businesses that produce food waste must:

• Separate all food waste from other waste streams.
• Store food waste in separate bins from other waste. 
• Arrange for the collection of food waste by licensed waste carriers. 

Note: Whilst under Welsh waste laws, only businesses and non-domestic premises that produce more than 5kg of food waste per week must separate their waste, as yet DEFRA have set no such minimum for England and have stated ‘there is no minimum food waste weight before the new regulations apply.’ 

The Environment Act 2021

The Environment Act 2021 will support the government’s aim to eliminate all avoidable waste being sent to landfills by 2030. The act includes a number of policies that seek to improve air and water quality, biodiversity, resource efficiency and reduce waste. When first published, Environment Secretary at the time, George Eustice, stated that the act ‘will deliver the most ambitious environmental programme of any country on earth […] setting an example for the rest of the world to follow.’  

The Environment Act 2021 has two main functions; to provide a legal framework for environmental governance in the UK and to introduce measures for the improvement of the environment. It also reflects a growing expectation that businesses operate more sustainably with better accountability and transparency. As such, the general public and other parties will be able to report workplaces that do not follow the new legislation.

The act will impact many different types of businesses, however it is particularly relevant to the hospitality and food service sector. Guardians of Grub, WRAP’s food waste reduction campaign that focuses on the hospitality sector, states that 1.1 million tonnes of food is thrown away every year across the sector. As such, improving recycling in the hospitality industry is vital. By introducing mandatory food waste separation, the act seeks to reduce the negative impact of the tonnes of food waste generated by industries such as the hospitality sector. 

Separating food waste and stopping biodegradable waste from being sent to landfills, enables it to be repurposed and reused. The government’s preference is for food waste to be collected for treatment by anaerobic digestion as this generates bio-fuel and digestate which can be spread to land, ensuring nutrients are recycled.

Under the act, businesses must have separate bins for the collection and storage of:

• Dry recyclable waste (glass, metal, plastic, paper and cardboard)
• Food waste
• General waste

How to Prepare for the Food Waste Separation Legislation

All businesses will eventually have to comply with the new legislation. As such, irrespective of whether it will impact your business in March 2025 or March 2027, it is important to prepare your business and staff for the new legislation. 

Following the steps below will help you to prepare your business for the introduction of food waste separation legislation.

1. Undertake a waste audit. 

A waste audit is a review of the different types of waste that your business produces. It will help you to understand the type of waste that you generate, enabling you to see where, if possible, reductions in waste can be made. The information that you gather during a waste audit will help you to better plan waste handling, storage and disposal. The government has provided guidance on how to conduct a waste audit in a hospitality business and guidance for conducting an audit in other sectors can be found elsewhere on their website. 

2. Find a waste collector. 

Now that you have an understanding of the type and quantity of waste that your business produces, you need to find a suitable waste collection service. The waste collector can be a private company or your local authority may provide the necessary services. Whilst cost is a notable factor when selecting a waste carrier, compliance should be a top priority and it is important to remember that if the company you use to dispose of your waste does so illegally, such as fly-tipping, you could be held responsible. You can visit the Public Register of Waste Carriers, Brokers and Dealers to check if your prospective waste collector is registered. Working with an accredited and compliant waste collection service that is aware of and complies with the new legislation, will ensure you avoid fines, enforcement actions and potential prosecution. 

3. Set up appropriate recycling bins. 

You may already have different recycling bins in place, however the information gleaned from your audit will help you to assess whether they are still suitable for your business under the new legislation. Do you have enough bins for food waste separation or do you need to invest in new ones? Are your bins different colours to make it clear what type of waste should go in each bin? If not, is there clear signage to avoid cross contamination? It is also important to consider the size and location of your bins. If you are a larger business you may need a commercial 1100L wheelie bin or a smaller 240L bin, the same size as those outside your house, may be just fine. If you don’t already have the appropriate recycling bins set up then it is vital that you do so before the new legislation comes into force to avoid delays and potential fines. 

4. Improve signage around your business.

Clear signage will enable your staff and anyone else who may be at your premises, to dispose of waste correctly. Imagery showing what waste needs to go in what bin, empowers people to confidently and correctly dispose of their waste. Posters are a good visual reminder of the correct process for waste disposal and help to reduce any ambiguity that people may have. Take the time to improve signage before the legislation comes into force so that people have time to get into the habit of disposing waste correctly. You can find a free downloadable poster that you can use in your own business below. 

5. Monitor and review your waste management and collection.

The government has introduced mandatory digital waste tracking that will come into force from April 2025. Mandatory tracking seeks to help businesses move towards a circular economy by providing a comprehensive way of tracking the amount and type of waste being produced and where it ends up. Continuous monitoring and reviewing of your current waste management and collection practices is good preparation for mandatory tracking and allows you to check that your practices remain compliant. It also enables you to establish the best approach for reporting, sharing and evaluating your practices before the enforcement of the new legislation. Remember, from April 2025 the general public and other parties will be able to report workplaces that do not comply with the new legislation. As such, monitoring and reviewing your waste management practices is vital to ensure you remain compliant and have the opportunity to correct any non-compliant practices before any reporting. 

Free Waste Separation Posters

Our free downloadable poster is a simple and clear way to help you and your employees separate food waste effectively. Place the poster on or above the necessary bin, in a clearly visible spot so that people can easily see what waste needs to go where. 

• Food and drink cans recycling
• Food waste
• General waste
• Mixed recycling
• Paper and cardboard recycling
• Plastic tubs, bottles, pots, tubs and trays

As mentioned above, food waste is not the only waste that will need to be separated. Below you will also find posters to guide the separation of different types of waste. Download and print the posters that are relevant to your business and use them as clear visual tools to guide your staff. 

Food waste has an incredibly detrimental impact on the planet and whilst individual steps can be taken to reduce household food waste, the introduction of this new legislation reiterates the responsibility of businesses to reduce their negative impact on the environment. Whilst the new regulations have increased businesses responsibilities, its aim is to increase recycling rates and reduce the amount of waste sent for disposal which will, in the long run, help to reduce business costs, save energy, conserve natural resources and protect the environment. 

Further Resources:

• How to Reduce Food Waste in Your Restaurant
• Recycling in the Hospitality Industry: How & Why Should We Do it?
• Environmental Awareness Training

The post What You Need to Know About Food Waste Separation appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article we will cover what to consider when changing careers, highlight the transferable skills gained from a career in construction and explore alternative careers for construction workers using those skills. 

Changing Career After Working in Construction

Construction can be a rewarding and fulfilling career due to its variety and the opportunity to directly see the impact of your work whilst learning new and diverse skills. However, construction is a physically demanding and strenuous job that can potentially cause long-lasting damage to the body over time. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) notes that whilst there have been significant improvements in conditions over recent years, construction remains a high-risk industry for health issues. In fact, their Construction Statistics in Great Britain 2024 report highlights that 52% of all ill health reported in the sector was caused by work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Moreover, whilst construction is known for being one of the highest-paying incomes in the country, like many industries, it is subject to the whim of the economy. Economic downturn can result in increased labour and supply costs which negatively impacts income. In 2021 the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that the average hourly labour income for those in the construction industry was persistently lower than the rest of the economy. Whilst this can be seen as a reflection of lower productivity post-covid, it highlights the potential lack of financial security within the sector, which can make securing a consistent, well-paying income difficult for many. 

Recognising that you want to change careers marks the beginning of a new and exciting journey, nevertheless, this does not negate the uncertainty that surrounds the change. Switching careers is much more than simply applying for a new role in a new industry and there are various things that you should consider before committing to the switch. Common concerns around changing careers include inadequate qualifications or training, difficulties adjusting to a new working environment and worries about changes in income. These are valid concerns and it is important to take the time to consider how you will adapt to and overcome these challenges. If after careful consideration you decide that a career change is still the best course of action for you, then it is time to explore your options. 

Changing careers can involve the same role within a new industry, a new role within the same industry or a new role within a different industry. Irrespective of which transitional path you choose to follow, each route provides the opportunity to use the skills and knowledge gained in your current profession and apply them to new tasks and responsibilities. The benefits of changing careers include personal and professional development, an improved work-life balance, exposure to new challenges and the opportunity to learn new skills. As such, it is important to have a strong idea of why you wish to change your career so that you can seek out that change in a new position. 

For example, as a construction worker you may find that the physical toll of the job has become too much, causing you to seek out a less physically demanding job such as office work. This is not necessarily at odds with a career in construction and you may find that switching to a managerial role that is office based and in the same industry, such as project management, provides you with the change that you were looking for without having to change sectors. Comparatively, it may be that you ‘fell into’ the construction industry and though something you have enjoyed, you now wish to work in an entirely different field with no relation to construction whatsoever. 

Knowing your ‘why’ gives you a better sense of direction and can guide your search for the next best role for you. It will also help you to decide if a different career is even necessary as identifying your current dissatisfactions may highlight that you are looking for changes within your current role rather than a new role entirely. This may then lead to discussions with your manager that brings about the change that you were looking for. 

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Support your career development goals with our Personal Development courses. From Leadership and Management training to Confidence Building, our wide range of courses provide you with the skills to support you in your new career. 

Transferable Skills in Construction

Transferable skills are skills gained from one job or industry that can be applied to a range of different jobs or industries. Due to the varied nature of working in construction, there are a number of valuable transferable skills that you are likely to have gained. 

Transferable skills that many construction workers possess include:

• Good time management 
• Leadership
• Research and analysis
• Problem solving
• Teamwork
• Organisational skills
• Strong communication
• Attention to detail
• Customer service
• Critical thinking

A career in construction is likely to have taught you a range of soft skills and hard skills. Hard skills are useful should you decide to stay within the sector but in a different role, whilst soft skills might be more easily transferable. Don’t underestimate the value of the skills that you have gained, hard or soft, as they can make you a valuable asset in many different roles and industries. As such, when applying for new positions be sure to highlight your transferable skills in your CV or cover letter. Not only does this show you’ve done thorough research on the new role, it can help to pacify concerns a prospective employer may have about your suitability. For example, if you chose to pursue a career in marketing after a career in construction, highlighting your strong communication skills and time management skills would be advantageous. 

The list above is not exhaustive and you may have gained many other transferable skills. Once you have an idea of what role you would like to pursue next, you can look into whether your current skillset is suitable for the role. You may be surprised by the transferability of some of your skills. However, if you do spot a gap between your skillset and those needed for a new role, you are now in the perfect position to bridge that gap with further study or training. 

Alternative Jobs for Construction Workers

As mentioned above, it is important to know your ‘why.’ Being able to recognise why you want to switch careers or what you hope to gain from the change, will put you in the right direction to find opportunities that align with your goals. Choosing the right career can feel like a momentous decision and so it is important to take the time to consider it carefully. 

The average UK worker spends 252 days a year at work. This equates to approximately 69% of their year spent working. Whilst it’s not necessarily surprising to hear that we spend the majority of our time at work, it does reiterate the importance of choosing a career that, whilst supporting you financially, is also fulfilling, rewarding and a positive impact on your wellbeing.

Below you will find examples of potential alternative careers for construction workers. This list is by no means all-encompassing, however it highlights the variety of career options available to those with a background in construction. 

There are many different career paths available to those with a background in construction. Go Construct provides a range of resources for those looking for a career in construction and have extensive information on viable careers relating to construction. Regardless of whether you wish to stay within the construction industry or want to try something new, this is a good place to start for inspiration on your next career move. 

The thought of changing careers can be intimidating and it can be tempting to stay where you are in favour of the ‘devil you know.’ However, a background in construction provides you with strong transferable skills that can help you to thrive in a wide range of industries. Taking the time to consider why you want to change careers and what new adventures you hope to experience will help the process feel less monumental and a new, fulfilling career more attainable. 

Further Resources:

• How to Switch Careers
• Careers in Construction Industry: Opportunities and Roles
• A Personal Development Plan (PDP) Guide & Template
• How to Upskill Yourself

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As the hospitality sector continues to contend with post-pandemic changes, the cost-of-living crisis and rising supply and energy prices, the cost of food waste is something they simply cannot afford. Whilst it can be difficult to know where to start when tackling food waste, the adoption of simple sustainable practices can drastically reduce the financial and environmental impact of food waste. 

In this article we will outline why food waste is an issue for restaurants and why it is important to reduce the waste that you generate. We will also discuss common causes of food waste and provide tips to help you reduce food waste in your business.

Why is Food Waste a Problem?

Food waste can feel like an inevitable by product of working in the hospitality industry. Food waste is generated in hospitality much in the same way it is domestically and when you’re serving hundreds of people a day, vast amounts of food waste is to be expected. Nevertheless, despite its categorisation as an ‘unavoidable evil,’ food waste is in fact a significant problem for the hospitality sector; in terms of both the harmful greenhouse gases that it generates and its negative effect on profitability. 

Food waste has a catastrophic impact on the environment. When food is left to rot in landfills it releases methane, a greenhouse gas that is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide and has 28 times the global warming potential. Moreover, when edible food is thrown away, the resources used to rear, grow, process and transport that food, such as water, energy and labour, are wasted. The water footprint of the total annual food waste in the UK is estimated to be around 5.4 billion cubic metres. A 2024 government report on food waste found that the hospitality and food service sector generated 10% of the total food wasted in 2021. This equates to 540 million cubic metres of water wasted by the hospitality and food service sector alone, roughly the same as 216,000 Olympic sized swimming pools.  

Food waste is also an avoidable financial burden for the sector. In 2019 the hospitality industry had an economic output of £59.3 billion, equating to roughly 3% of the total UK economic output. By 2020 that figure had fallen by 42% and though higher in 2021, it was still 21% lower than 2019. The hospitality sector was one of the hardest hit by covid due to socialising restrictions and lockdowns. Though the industry has fought tooth and nail to regain stability, it continues to battle with the fallout of covid, rising operating costs and a cost-of-living crisis that is impacting custom. Food waste can then be seen as an additional, yet avoidable, cost that many in the sector cannot afford. 

WRAP estimates that food waste costs the hospitality industry £3.2 billion every year, an average of £10,000 per outlet, per year. It can be hard to imagine how this much money is wasted, especially in an industry in which finances are already so tight for many. However, when one remembers that waste is cumulative it becomes much easier to see how frequent instances of over-ordering, overproduction and human error can result in such vast amounts of waste, both in terms of food and lost profit.

Causes of Food Waste in Restaurants 

As mentioned above, food waste in restaurants can be generated in similar ways to households and is often cumulative, meaning that seemingly insignificant waste such as the odd vegetable skin or some fat trimmings, add up to create vast amounts of waste. However, there are causes of food waste that are unique to restaurants and the hospitality industry. 

Causes of food waste across the sector include:

• Consumer Plate Waste – Much like in a domestic setting, waste is generated when unfinished food on the plate is thrown away. Large portion sizes or the inability to take leftovers home are the main causes of this kind of waste. 

• Over-ordering and Spoilage – Many in the hospitality industry plan ahead and prep ingredients ready for busy days as it is often better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. Subsequently they may end up over-ordering ingredients and supplies to avoid potential delays and to ensure their kitchens remain well stocked. However, if for whatever reason the food doesn’t sell, restaurants can be left with a surplus which they then need to repurpose before it spoils and has to be thrown away. 

• Trimmed or Peeling Waste – As with household waste, this waste is generated when preparing food and includes vegetable peels, fruit skins and fat trimmings. As restaurants can end up serving hundreds of people a day, they generate significantly more of this waste due to the preparation of large quantities of food. 

• Menu Changes – Menu changes can be an exciting time for a restaurant and bring with it the opportunity to entice new customers. However, these changes can lead to unused or unwanted inventory going to waste if the new menu is drastically different from previous menus. 

• Overproduction – Like over-ordering, overproduction is often the result of a desire to be well prepared. However, restaurants may end up preparing more food than necessary and in a manner that makes it difficult to use in other dishes. This then leads to food waste as the pre-prepared food is not used. 

The list above is not exhaustive and food waste in the hospitality sector is influenced by a wide variety of factors such as the type of establishment and the food served. However, identifying the ways in which the sector uniquely generates waste is the first step to reducing it. It is also important to remember that this waste is not exclusive to bricks and mortar businesses as mobile caterers also generate significant amounts of food waste. Whilst mobile businesses often have limited space, so may be less susceptible to over-ordering or overproduction, consumer plate waste and preparation waste still contribute to the generation of vast amounts of food waste. 

How to Reduce Food Waste in Restaurants 

Douglas McMaster, owner of the world’s first zero waste restaurant Silo argues that ‘waste is a failure of the imagination.’ The hospitality industry is undeniably one of creative innovation and avant-garde experimentation. This creativity has led to the development of awe-inspiring dishes and news worthy menus and can also be applied to the reduction of food waste. Tackling food waste can be an exciting and creative thought exercise, just like developing a new menu and shouldn’t be treated like an arduous, unimportant task. 

Below you will find 10 ways to reduce food waste. Not every option will be viable for your business, however don’t be afraid to use your imagination and tweak and adapt suggestions to find what works best for you. 

With the introduction of new food waste separation regulations, more onus is being put on businesses to act sustainably. As such, finding ways to reduce food waste will not only help you to run your business in a more sustainable and cost effective manner, it will also ensure that you are well prepared for compliance with the regulations. 

Reducing food waste in the hospitality sector is undeniably difficult, but not impossible. When making steps to be more sustainable it is valuable to remember that you are aiming for progression, not perfection. Adopting a few seemingly small practices that you can consistently maintain, will lead to more tangible change than committing to producing no waste whatsoever and failing after a week. Lean into the inherent creativity of the industry and find new and exciting ways to reduce your food waste, protect the planet and save money.

Further Resources:

• Recycling in the Hospitality Industry: How & Why Should We Do it?
• Self Inspection Checklist for Food Premises: Be Prepared for EHO Visits
• Food Hygiene Training

The post 10 Ways to Reduce Food Waste in Your Restaurant appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

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However, despite being one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, a few small tweaks is all it takes to drastically reduce your food waste and help protect the planet. In this article we will explore how food waste is generated in households, why it is a problem for the environment and provide 10 top tips to help you reduce food waste at home. 

What is Food Waste?

There is no legal or universally accepted definition of ‘food waste,’ however the UK charity Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) defines food waste as ‘food and inedible parts sent to one of several waste disposal destinations.’ Put simply, food waste is food that is wasted, lost or uneaten at any point in the supply chain. From farm to table, supermarkets to our homes, food can be wasted at any stage of the supply chain and this waste is harmful to both our planet and our pockets.

WRAP estimates that in 2021 the total amount of food wasted in the UK amounted to 10.7 million tonnes. 60% of this was generated from households and amounted to a staggering £17 billion worth of food; equivalent to £250 per person each year, or £1000 for a family of four. However, despite 10.7 million tonnes going to waste, somewhat paradoxically, food insecurity continues to rise in the UK. Food insecurity is when a person does not have reliable access to affordable, nutritious and healthy food. In January 2023, 17% of households faced food insecurity compared to 7.4% in January 2021. Food insecurity and food waste are intrinsically linked as food waste can lead to food scarcity and increased prices, making it harder for lower income households to afford food. 

Food waste also has a negative impact on the environment and it contributes to climate change and environmental degradation in two ways; firstly through the release of greenhouse gases such as methane and secondly through the wasted energy and resources needed for initial production. The United Nations Environment Programmes food index report states that 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions are associated with food that is not consumed. This is because when food is left to rot in a landfill it releases methane, a greenhouse gas that has 28 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide and is 84 times more potent.

The rearing of livestock also generates methane. In 2022, the Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) reported that 47% of the UK’s methane emissions were generated by ruminant agriculture; the process of rearing ruminant livestock such as cattle, sheep and goats for their milk, meat and other products. When this food is thrown away, the resources used to grow the agriculture or rear the livestock are wasted and greenhouse gas emissions generated for no reason. 

Examples of Food Waste in Households

It can be hard to quantify 9.5 million tonnes of annual food waste and this often leads people to think that their own food wasting habits aren’t contributing to the larger problem. However, wasting food is often easier than you may think and households in the UK throw away, on average, 1.96kg of food per day, roughly equivalent to eight meals per week. 

Seemingly innocent habits add up to significant amounts of food being wasted and it’s not just the odd spoiled banana that we throw away that contributes to this waste. Ways in which food is wasted in households includes:

• Plate Waste – Leftover food on plates that is either not in a fit state to be saved for later or is unwanted such as fruits and vegetables.

• Expired or Spoiled Food – Food that has expired or spoiled due to poor storage and/or handling. Date labels and a lack of understanding of food shelf-life can cause confusion amongst consumers. A misinterpretation of ‘best before’ can lead people to discard food that is still safe to eat as they gauge these date labels as indicators of food safety, rather than quality.

• Trimmed or Peeling Waste – Waste is generated when preparing food and vegetable peels, fruit skins and fat trimmings all contribute to food waste if they are not composted or used, where possible, in other recipes.

• ‘Ugly’ Produce – There are certain aesthetic requirements that many consumers have for their food, irrespective of whether it reflects the quality or suitability of the food itself. As such, consumers can be quick to throw away, or simply not buy, perfectly edible fruit and vegetables simply because it does not meet cosmetic standards.

• Leftovers – When unfinished food is left in a condition in which it can be saved for later, improper storage or a lack of inspiration as to what to do with leftover food, often leads to it being thrown away. 

Food waste behaviour is multifaceted and most people do not set out with the intention to waste food. In fact, in the face of rising prices and the cost of living crisis, many people are more aware than ever of the economic impact of wasting food. However, food waste can be a cumulative problem in which throwing away small amounts of food each day or week generates tonnes and tonnes of waste. 

This can be seen in the foods that are most wasted in the UK. These foods are often seen as inexpensive household necessities and as such are bought in large quantities in order to have them ready to hand when needed. Nevertheless, this can lead to people buying more food than they could possibly eat before it spoils and the food going to waste. 

The top five most wasted foods in the UK are:

As mentioned, these foods are often seen as household essentials, regularly finding themselves on the weekly shopping list. Nevertheless, they also serve as the perfect example of how food waste is unconsciously generated. Many consumers would not think of the few slices of bread they threw away last week as being ‘significant’ food waste. However, when we consider that it is in fact a few slices being thrown away every single week for years on end, the problem becomes much more obvious.

Tips to Reduce Food Waste at Home

Whilst food waste is a significant issue, steps can be taken to help reduce the amount of waste generated and its impact on the environment. From adopting more sustainable food practices to making more effective use of your freezer, small tweaks to your food shopping and eating habits can make a huge difference to the amount of waste generated. Moreover, the government has shown a dedication to reducing food waste with steps such as adopting the Courtauld Commitment which seeks to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030. 

Whilst these initiatives are encouraging supermarkets and restaurants to generate less waste or consider sustainable alternatives for waste they still create, it is important to remember that household food waste remains a massive contributor to food waste as a whole. As such, it is important that we as individuals take steps to reduce our food waste. 

Here are 10 top tips to help you reduce your food waste at home:

There are various different ways to reduce your food waste at any and every stage of the meal preparation journey. When adopting these changes, ensure that they are suitable and sustainable for your lifestyle, as consistency is what makes these changes impactful and beneficial for our pockets and our planet. 

Food waste feeds climate change. From the degradation of the land used to grow food that is then thrown away, to the billions upon billions of cubic metres of water that is wasted, food production draws resources from our planet at every stage of its life cycle. Making small, sustainable changes to our shopping and eating habits helps ensure that no good food ends up in the bin, thereby reducing our carbon footprint and helping to tackle climate change.

Further Resources:

• Meal Prep Guide
• Guidance on Air Fryer Safety
• Food Hygiene Training

The post How to Reduce Food Waste at Home appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

Effective time management is a vital soft skill that increases productivity, reduces stress and helps you to achieve important goals. As such, adopting a time management technique can help you to better manage your time, enabling you to focus on what is important and achieve personal and professional growth. 

There are numerous techniques that can help you to manage your time in a way that works best for you. In this article we will outline why time management is important and explore 10 different time management techniques that can help you to manage your time.

Why is Time Management Important?

Time management is the process of planning and organising your time for different activities. It encompasses various aspects of your life including work, family life and hobbies. Time management relates to how you consciously coordinate your time to increase your efficiency and achieve different goals. 

Good time management is important because it is crucial for maximising productivity, reducing stress, achieving personal and professional goals and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Effective time management enables you to spend time on what is important and have the free time to relax and recharge. Poor time management can lead to persistent feelings of overwhelm, procrastination, a lower quality of work and increased stress. Therefore, adopting a time management technique enables you to take control of your time and increase your efficiency and productivity. 

Looking to Learn More?

Time management, like any skill, can be improved and strengthened. Our Time Management course provides you with the knowledge to improve your time management skills and excel in the workplace. You can further develop core business skills with our wide range of Business Essentials courses. 

Time Management Techniques 

As helpful as it would be, there is no one size fits all when it comes to time management techniques. Different techniques work for different people and what works for an undergraduate cramming for their first year exams, may in fact not help you prepare for that major project that needs completing by Q2. Moreover, different projects may require different techniques depending on their qualitative or quantitative needs. 

Irrespective of which technique you choose, it needs to be the best method for you. We’re all guilty of adopting something because it worked for someone else and then a few months later casting it aside as yet another ‘ineffective technique.’ Therefore, figuring out which technique works for you is the first step in learning how to manage your time more efficiently. Below you will find 10 effective time management techniques to help you manage your time. Carefully read through each one before deciding which method you think is best for you. 

Remember, it’s okay to trial different techniques. If you’re unsure which one would be best, pick one, trial it for a week, then review your productivity at the end of the week and adjust accordingly. Each technique has its own advantages and its own limitations so consider which works best for your individual needs and don’t be afraid to return to the drawing board if one particular technique ends up not working.

10 Time Management Techniques 

Which Time Management Method is Most Useful?

To put it simply; different time management techniques work for different people. With so many different time management techniques out there it can be hard to know which is best. However, because there are so many different techniques there is undoubtedly one that will work well for you. 

Certain strategies lend themselves well to different requirements and personalities. For example, Eat That Frog works well for procrastinators as it forces them to start their day with the most challenging task rather than putting it off. Comparatively, Time Boxing works well for those who often find themselves spending much longer than needed on a task by setting a time limit. Some of the techniques listed above may work better for your personal life, whilst others may be better suited to your worklife; there is no right or wrong way, there is only what is right or wrong for you. 

Take the time to think about what you need help managing. Is it your day, your week or your month? This time frame might rule out some strategies entirely but be perfectly suited to others. Consider the kind of thinker that you are. Do you rely on visuals to help you clearly see what you are doing? Is a to-list your idea of hell? These are vital questions to ask yourself when choosing a time management technique as there is no point picking a technique that is entirely at odds with your working style or habits. 

Trial and error is an important part of adopting a time management technique. After trialing a technique, review your productivity, the ease of use and adjust accordingly. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques till you find one that works for you or to test different techniques for different projects. 

Poor time management causes stress and anxiety blurring the lines between home-life and work-life. It can lead to a lack of motivation, decreased productivity and consistent feelings of overwhelm. Take back control of your time by adopting a time management technique that can improve your productivity, reduce your stress and support a good work-life balance. 

Further Resources:

• Time Management Matrix: Free Template
• Soft Skills in the Workplace
• Time Management Course

The post 10 Time Management Techniques appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article we will outline what meeting minutes are, why they are important and provide guidance on how to take useful meeting minutes. You will also find a downloadable template that you can use to effectively write meeting minutes.

What are Meeting Minutes?

Meeting minutes are a summary of the main points discussed by meeting attendees and the subsequent action points that they have decided upon. Meeting minutes are not a transcript of every single thing that was said during a meeting nor are they solely for formal meetings. Regardless of the type of meeting, meeting minutes serve as a record of the key elements discussed such as:

• Issues raised.
• Motions put forth.
• Decisions made.
• Actions agreed upon.

As a minute taker it is your responsibility to write clear and concise minutes that document the key talking points of the meeting. It is therefore beneficial to have a separate minute taker and Chairperson so that focus can be directed where necessary. An effective chairperson will ensure that meetings run smoothly and efficiently and that the agenda is followed accordingly. This enables you as the minute taker to focus solely on producing useful and succinct meeting minutes. 

Why are Meeting Minutes Important?

Meeting minutes are an essential tool for before, during and after a meeting. They deliver key information and help to keep the necessary people informed of the main talking points of a meeting. 

Meeting minutes are important because they:

• Help with meeting preparation – Minutes from previous meetings help organisers to prepare agendas for upcoming meetings. They provide information which can guide topics for discussion such as updating attendees on a project’s progress or reviewing the success of a previously agreed upon action.

• Act as an official record of proceedings – Meeting minutes act as an official record of discussions held, decisions made and actions taken. They act as a point of reference of what occurred during the meeting and can be easily referred back to by senior staff or stakeholders. 

• Hold attendees accountable – Meeting minutes record actions that need to be taken and the person or department responsible for those actions. By documenting each task and associated action items, meeting minutes provide a clear indication of who is responsible for completing specific tasks. 

• Build trust through transparency – Meeting minutes inform those not in attendance, whether due to absence or remote working, of the key points discussed. This provides important insight into the inner workings and discussions of meetings, highlighting to those not in attendance that attendees are acting in the best interest of the business.

• Improve efficiency – Well written meeting minutes provide information that can be used to guide future meetings. This saves times when reviewing prior decisions and actions and helps to eliminate repetitive discussions or tasks.

Looking for More?

Our Minute Taking Course will teach you the skills to produce clear and concise meeting minutes for any meeting. We also have a wide range of Business Essentials courses, such as our Communication Skills course, that will provide you with knowledge and skills to thrive in the workplace.

How to Take Minutes for a Meeting

Meeting minutes have to record a lot of different information, so it is important that they are as detailed and succinct as possible. Writing effective meeting minutes involves thorough preparation before the meeting, active listening during the meeting and diligent compilation after the meeting.

Here are five top tips to help you capture the essential information of any meeting, regardless of the size or formality. 

1. Be Prepared.

The better prepared you are for the meeting, the more efficiently you will be able to take notes. Take the time to find out the agenda points ahead of time so that you have an idea of what the meeting is about. If the meeting is a follow up, read over previous agenda points and minutes so that you have as much contextual knowledge as possible. Speak to the Chairperson in advance and ask for clarity on any points you are unsure of. Don’t forget to make sure you are physically prepared to take notes. It may seem obvious but make sure you have enough pens to hand and a notebook or paper with enough space to write the necessary information. If you prefer writing notes on your laptop, make sure your laptop is charged and muted to avoid any distractions from incoming notifications.

2. Find your Focus.

It is important to know what you actually need to be making notes on so use the agenda to help determine the key topics of the meeting. As the minute taker you need to record information accurately as your notes will eventually serve as a reminder of the commitments made and topics discussed. It is important to get these details right and it is much easier to do this if you know in advance when to focus and when to just listen. 

3. Use a Template.

A template provides you with a clear structure with which to format your notes. It can help you to keep track of the important details and guide which information you decide to include based on pre-set subheadings/categories. Templates are also useful for maintaining consistency. Your business may have a set minute taker, or the role may change from meeting to meeting. However, a template ensures consistency irrespective of who is taking the minutes. 

4. Be Objective.

Only include the facts in your notes and remain neutral, avoiding any personal impressions or opinions. The finished meeting minutes must be an unbiased and impartial overview of the proceedings.

5. Review your Minutes.  

Once you have finished typing up your minutes and before distributing them to the necessary parties, have them reviewed and approved by the most senior person in attendance or the Chairperson. It is important to double check that the necessary information has been included and that dates, agreed actions and task assignees have been documented properly. 

Due to the increase in hybrid/remote working, you may find yourself acting as minute taker for virtual meetings. The steps above remain applicable for remote meetings, however it is beneficial to also consider the following: 

• Find a quiet space – Find a space where you won’t have any disruptions or distractions. If you’re working from home and others are present, let them know you have a meeting to attend and not to disturb you. It is important that you can clearly hear the other members of the meeting during a call, so reduce as much background noise as possible so that you can focus properly.

• Speak up – Remote meetings are frequently subjected to the whim of one’s internet connection. It’s highly likely that there will be drops in someone’s connection at some point during the meeting so it is important that you speak up to seek further clarity when necessary. Knowing how to speak up in meetings enables you to confidently ask attendees to repeat themselves and ensures that you do not miss any vital information.

• Record the meeting – The benefit of virtual meetings is the chance to record the entire thing. You must first ask permission from those attending or let them know well in advance that you will be recording the meeting. Recording the meeting allows you to be more present as you can then go back and watch over the recording to make any necessary notes. 

• Use multiple screens – If you have more than one screen in your home office set up then make the most of the extra space. Having the meeting on one screen and a document for notes on the other, stops you from juggling multiple windows on the one screen and potentially missing key information as you switch from one window to another.

Meeting Minutes Template

Below you will find a meeting minutes template for you to download and use. 

The template has been broken down into sections to help you prioritise key information such as the meeting objective, the agenda, main takeaways and action points. There is also space to include the meeting date, time, location and details of the next meeting. The template is fully editable so you can input additional information should you wish. 

Being able to create clear, professional meeting minutes is a crucial skill to have as they are an important part of ensuring that meetings are productive and successful. As a minute taker it is your responsibility to produce useful notes in the final minutes document. Using the guidance and template above will help you to do just that and write effective meeting minutes.

Further Resources:

• How to Chair a Meeting Effectively
• Minute Taking Quiz
• Minute Taking Course

The post How to Write Meeting Minutes: Free Template appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article we will outline what a training calendar is and how your business can benefit from using one. You will also find guidance on how to prepare a training calendar along with free downloadable training calendar templates. 

What is a Training Calendar?

A training calendar is a schedule of training sessions, workshops and seminars. It acts as a visual guide of training opportunities that will further your employees’ professional growth and development. 

Providing your employees with a diverse range of training empowers them to enhance their skills whilst encouraging them to attain new ones. This boosts their confidence and increases their independence which in turn helps your business. The consequences of not training your employees can be severe, but a well organised training calendar will support the successful implementation of training in your business.

Why Use a Training Calendar for Employees?

The benefits of employee training include improved efficiency, greater job satisfaction and higher employee retention. A training calendar is much more than just a checklist of the workshops and seminars that create these benefits. Training calendars enable you to deliver training in the most effective and efficient way possible and act as discernable markers of your dedication to employee development.  

Five ways a training calendar can be beneficial to you and your employees include:

1. Improved performance and engagement – training improves your employees’ skills and gives them the tools to do their jobs confidently and competently. When employees can see what training is coming up, they are better prepared to improve those skills and thus more likely to be highly engaged during said training.  
2. Encouraging innovation – creativity is stimulated when employees are given the chance to explore new ideas and approaches through training. A training calendar shows employees that you both value and encourage these chances for innovation. 
3. Increased competitiveness – businesses that invest in employee training have a competitive advantage on others as they are providing their employees with the skills to meet different demands. By showing prospective and existing employees what training opportunities are available, your business stands out as an organisation dedicated to employee development. 
4. Creating a culture of learning – a training calendar reiterates to all your employees that training is not a ‘one time thing’ but in fact a continuous process of improvement. This in turn helps to create a culture of learning in which learning and development is a normal part of your business’ day-to-day activities. 
5. Addressing skill gaps – upskilling employees can be a cost-effective way to build the skills that your business needs whilst boosting morale and improving employee engagement. A training calendar that has been strategically developed to target identified skill gaps provides your employees with the chance to fill those gaps and improve their skill set. 

Looking to Learn More?

We offer a wide range of Online Training Courses to support your employees’ professional development. From Health and Safety Training for Employees to Communication Skills, we have an array of courses to expand your employees’ skills and boost your business’ success.

How to Prepare a Training Calendar

There are lots of different training calendar formats available and you need to consider which format is best for you. Important factors to consider are the size of your team, the frequency of training sessions and the training objectives. Regardless of which format you choose, your training calendar needs careful planning and consideration in order to be as effective as possible. 

Remember; a well planned and carefully executed training calendar will align with the needs of your business and enable your employees to take ownership of their development. 

Here are some key steps you should follow when preparing a training calendar:

1. Assess your Needs.

Before you begin any kind of planning, you need to identify the training needs of your business and your employees. This is an opportune time to seek input from your employees and learn what kind of training they actually want and need. Take the time to consider skill gaps and ask your employees what skills they are interested in developing. The more tailored your training calendar the more engaged your employees and the more plentiful the rewards. 

2. Establish Objectives.

Once you have an idea of what needs your training will address, the next step is to define the objectives for your training sessions. What do you want your employees to gain? What skills and knowledge are you eager to develop? Establishing clear objectives and setting SMART goals gives your employees a direct understanding of what is expected from them and their training. You can then align their training with your business’ objectives, ensuring they have the necessary skills for your business’ success.

3. Select Resources and Format.

Training comes in all shapes and sizes but one size does not fit all. Not only do different employees have different training needs, some training is better delivered in one way than  the other. Consider offering a variety of training formats such as online courses, in-person workshops or seminars/webinars. This can help to mix things up for your employees and prevent training from appearing monolithic.

It is also important to consider the best facilitator for training. Don’t overlook the expertise that already exists within your business but also recognise when an external training provider would be the best course of action. 

4. Plan your Schedule.

Now that you’ve done the groundwork it’s time to put your training calendar together! It’s important to be strategic with your scheduling in order to make it as effective as possible. Whilst you want to offer ample opportunities for training, avoid overloading your employees with too many sessions at once. Ensure that training is spread out so that it remains manageable along with your employees’ regular workload. It is also a good idea to offer sessions at different times of the day to accommodate different schedules and workloads. 

Consider aligning your training calendar with your business’ initiatives. For example, if you have an important project coming up in the next quarter, you can spend the previous quarter delivering key training that will help the project’s success. Moreover, if you know that May is a particularly busy month for your business, you may decide to reduce the number of training sessions for that month to avoid overloading your staff.  

5. Share and Promote.

Think of your training calendar as a living breathing document, that is to say, once it’s finished don’t let it rot away in a folder never to see the light of day. Ensure that your training calendar is easily accessible for employees and encourage them to regularly check it for updates. You may decide to share the calendar via email, monthly newsletters (depending on the frequency that you have chosen) or other internal communications. However you decide to do it, make sure you convey the value of the training that you are offering and promote the specific benefits of each session. 

6. Evaluate and Evolve.

As with any living thing your training calendar can and should evolve over time. Take the time to evaluate your training calendar and the impact that it has had on your business. Have your employees gained the skills that they needed? Are you offering too much training in one area and not enough in another? Does the calendar still align with the needs of your business? These are important questions to ask to maintain the efficacy of your training calendar. Encourage employee feedback and use this to adapt and tweak your calendar as necessary. Utilise both qualitative and quantitative metrics to gauge the success of your training sessions and to guide the creation of future calendars. By committing to the continuous improvement of your training calendar you are ensuring that it remains useful and impactful for your business and your employees. 

Training Calendar Templates

A training calendar is an invaluable tool when it comes to delivering effective training. As mentioned, it needs to be comprehensive and informative, whilst remaining simple to follow and understand. It can be daunting to know where to start when creating a training calendar and there are countless templates for you to choose from. Regardless of which one you choose, it needs to be appropriate for your business and adjusted to suit your specific goals. 

Our free monthly and weekly training calendar templates provide you with a structured approach to professional learning and development. Each template can be downloaded and edited to suit the specific needs of your business; for example, you may choose to use the monthly calendar template for department or company wide training and encourage your employees to use the weekly template to create their own individualised training calendar.

You also have the option to colour coordinate your calendar with an editable colour key. You may choose to do this to group training sessions together by the skill that will be developed or to indicate which sessions are mandatory and which are optional. If you choose to keep your training calendar as a digital file you can highlight each entry with the corresponding colour yourself, or should you choose to print it, you can use a highlighter. 

Remember, it’s important to evaluate your training calendar to maintain its efficacy and to ensure that it remains relevant to your employees’ and business’ needs. It is therefore advisable to allocate time in your calendar for feedback sessions during which you can gain valuable information to guide the creation of future training calendars.

A training calendar is much more than just a stylish way to display training. It is an invaluable strategic tool that enables you to deliver efficient and effective training, supporting your employees’ growth and your business’ success.

Further Resources:

• 10 Employee Engagement Strategies
• How to Write SMART Goals for Employees
• Online Training Courses

The post Training Calendars: Why Your Company Needs One appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.