How do small local businesses benefit from offering Work Experience?

Work experience was certainly on the agenda this week!

A lot of small business owners want to leave it to the larger organisations which is understandable because of lack of time and resources, but I really do believe that small local businesses are some of the very best places for young people to learn. The exposure is priceless. With clear instruction and expectation set out for the student, it builds confidence and helps them discover strengths they didn’t know they had. It gives them their first sense of direction, their first reference, and their first experience of being trusted with something real.

For local businesses, it is a  win‑win situation. Why? Because they can help shape the next generation, and more importantly, strengthen their brand in the community because people notice!

It showcases that they are just not there to trade, they want to be part of that community.

Customer attitudes have changed. People want to buy from businesses they trust,  ones that feel genuine, connected, and part of their community. That shift matters to a small business.

I’ve seen first‑hand how a student can spark improvement: the way they solve problems, use social media, or bring a new perspective to customer experience can add real momentum to a business. It can also help with future employment; many small businesses struggle to recruit locally, and offering work experience is a simple, low‑pressure way to meet potential employees. 

Imagine if every small business supported just one student. What would that mean for our communities? Stronger connections between schools and employers, a shared sense of responsibility for the next generation, and a community where businesses and young people grow together.

For a small business, that’s a powerful combination!