Free seminar keeps Rotorua tradies in frame

Tradies are being offered a programme to enhance their business skills.

Rotorua tradies are being offered a free educational programme to boost their business skills beyond the work site as the building industry booms.

The first-of-its-kind national series of free seminars is being run by Future-Proof Building, to help builders, electricians and other specialists keep abreast of new regulations and products and widen their business skills.

The breakfast events will reveal industry insights and trends, and provide presentations on management skills, including accounting and finance practice, enhanced customer service, strategic marketing and building strong relationships with on-site suppliers.

"Future-Proof Building believes in not only building the best properties for the future, but also investing in the people who build them," said Richard Gough, general manager of Future-Proof Building.

"There are more than 125,000 tradespeople working in New Zealand and it is important they have access to the tools they need - on site and off."

As well as educational presentations, the national tradeshows will include demonstrations of the latest innovations and product solutions, and more than 30 trade stands. There is also a chance to network with peers.

The series will be held across 13 cities and provides an opportunity for licensed tradesmen to get trade points as part of their ongoing skills maintenance requirements. They are supported by Future-Proof Building partners Carters, J A Russell, Stewarts and Radcliffes. A series for plumbers is also planned for 2014.

"We are aware that time off-site is time not billed. So we have created a forum where builders, electricians and other specialist trades can learn about what's new in the market, see the products, be updated on regulations, talk to their peers and get professional advice on running their business - and all in one location. It's a few hours well spent," Mr Gough said.

"Our aim is to help them create a point of difference in their business, give them a competitive edge and access tools they need. Ultimately, this leads to the betterment of our industry."

The tradeshow is being held at the Rotorua Convention Centre on June 18. To register, go to www.fpb.co.nz/fpb-tradeshows.