CBI: Employers should reap Olympic training opportunity

Business bosses in London should use the opportunity of the Olympic Games to maximise staff performance and invest in training, it has been suggested.

Representatives for the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said the 2012 event represents a chance to create a "positive lasting legacy" for the UK and improve skills and employment in the capital.

At the organisation's 2008 Business Summit this week, attended by Olympics minister Tessa Jowell and London mayor Boris Johnson, the chairman of KPMG London LLP affirmed that the Games represent a significant training opportunity.

"Reducing the skills shortage across London is key in keeping us competitive, and now employers have an opportunity to get directly involved in making sure that people are given the skills and training that they are looking for," remarked Richard Reid.

"Early action now means that dividends for both businesses and the community will start to be realised before 2012 and embedding means that it will last long beyond 2020," he added.

CBI director general Richard Lambert added: "The business community needs to be as involved in the Games as it can, including the long-term plans to improve the skills, training and job opportunities in the east end."

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development previously pointed out that reassessing a company's learning and development strategies not only reduces staff turnover, but also fosters a "strong employer brand" to help attract key talent.