Apprenticeships, LinkedIn, Learning and Passion with James Lott

Lee interviews James Lott, MD and founder of Working Knowledge, a business and education consultancy. Working Knowledge concentrates on improving employment opportunities, guiding people towards the right job for them. Creator of the Digital Market Apprenticeship designed to provide employees with the business skills to shine in their position. He also works with Further Education Colleges, helping them launch young peoples careers with practical guidance and by improving links between the college and potential employers.   

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

James believes in providing young people with career opportunities in entrepreneur led, scale up businesses so they can get a great start to their working lives. He was inspired on this path from teaching sailing to young people and seeing their receptiveness and enthusiasm. Lots of people are reluctant to take on young people because they believe the media image of hoody wearing, knife wielding layabouts. When they meet young people they realise that actually they are innovative, creative and inquisitive. LinkedIn opens opportunities by offering to chance to present ourselves and our skills in a professional way. When you are young it’s a good idea to have had at least a basic work experience to jump off from.  

 

BEST MOMENTS

‘It was all built on this passion of ‘what does talent look like, and how do you get that talent into entrepreneurial businesses in order for those businesses to scale and thrive?’’

‘At the same time, in their questioning, because they’re unencumbered by years of experience narrowing our focus, they’re asking the questions we’ve forgotten to ask ourselves often in a business setting.’

‘People talk about transferable skills and they absolutely are there. So go and do something. It could be volunteering as well, people forget about that.’ 

‘Nothing comes to life for free. You cant wait around waiting for it to happen to you.’

 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Business Problems Solved Podcast         

 

ABOUT THE HOST

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.

 

CONTACT METHOD

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194
Lee@leehoughton.com 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/