Dealing with a Bad Employer

As an apprentice you are always hoping to get a great job and be given good training. In the majority of cases this will happen but unfortunately, sometimes you will come across a bad employer.

Whether it is the training, the pay or your line manager it is always worth trying to talk to your boss about it. If he isn’t receptive then their other places to go to seek support.

Poor Training

One of the main components of a job as an apprentice is the opportunity to receive on the job training. Most employers should have worked on the scheme so that you are on a structured programme and it complements your study and everyday duties.

If you find this isn’t the case then you need to talk to your boss about it. Make a list of what is wrong with the training and be able to give practical and realistic suggestions about how it could be changes.

People Problems

If the training is going well and the job is good but the people you are working with aren’t helping you, then you will still struggle. Whether it is a colleague who you feel is limiting you or a line manager who is poor then, again, you need to talk to your boss. Have concrete examples of what is going on and how it has affected you. As an apprentice, your colleagues and manager should be helping you progress in the company and not holding you back.

Benefits and Pay

As an apprentice you are entitled to the same benefits as other employees. Before starting, you will agree a salary with your boss and this should be paid to you on a regular basis. You are also entitled to holidays and time off for study.

If your boss is denying you any of these things then they are acting unlawfully and you have every right to make them change their ways. Make a formal complaint about the situation within you company and if they still don’t do anything then you may have to seek help elsewhere.

Seeking Support

If the problems that you are having with your employer cannot be sorted out within the company then you may need to seek support elsewhere. Try talking to your college tutor who may be able to liaise with your boss and try to sort out the problem.

If you have joined union within your industry then they are a great source of advice and support. Also, talk to your jobcentre who will be able to provide specific advice for apprentices.

Having a bad employer is not a great start to life as an apprentice but don’t feel that you have to put up with it. Whether it is a poor training scheme, a bad manager or difficulty claiming your pay or benefits, you need to approach you boss.

Make sure you can be clear about what is wrong and what could be done to address it. If they are still no help then consider going elsewhere to seek support and advice.