Around two-thirds of people working within the hospitality industry, feel they have untapped potential and skills that their employers don’t utilise.

In a survey for Learndirect Business, a quarter of employees said that if their out-of-work skills, such as IT, food hygiene and creativity were harnessed by their employers, then they would be more likely to stay on in their job for longer.

Employees said that if these hidden skills were harnessed in the workplace, they would increase productivity and efficiency, and would make them feel more motivated and empowered.

However, almost half of employers said they had never discussed hidden skills with their employees, even though most workers claim not to have kept such potential from their bosses deliberately.

Kirstie Donnelly, Directot of Products and Marketing at Learndirect Business, said: “We're calling on both employers and employees to talk to each other about hidden skills and realise this hidden potential. Not only does it make good business sense but it also motivates and empowers employees.

“Effective training is the key to unlocking hidden skills and ensuring employees meet the day to day business objectives,” she continued. “For example, an employee may run a football team or do voluntary work for a charity. These activities will have given them presentation or organisational skills that can be used to inspire or motivate clients and colleagues.”

Learndirect business offers a range of work-based and online courses, including basic skills, NVQs, and university level qualifications.

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