Digital and other 21st-century skills

In a world that is constantly changing, people can quickly fall behind because of their digital skills. However, this is at odds with our core value: 'Everyone included'. The challenge became very clear when the pressure on digital applications for job bonuses increased. We then decided, with the support of Flanders and the European Union, to focus fully on the digital aspect of the so-called '21st-century skills'.

‍

Digital skills

At A-kwadraat, the well-being and happiness of employees is paramount. That is why special attention is paid to the use of digital applications for private purposes. After all, digital administration, banking, and citizen profiles are a concern for many employees.

‍

The process began by dividing approximately 250 colleagues—almost half of the organization—into four levels based on their knowledge of smartphones, social media, apps, and digital keys. Even level 0 proved to be relevant, providing support to employees without smartphones or computers. Employees were familiarized with computers, mice, and smartphones in a playful manner.

‍

Of course, there were minor challenges along the way, such as dealing with absences due to illness. The production floor had to keep running. But the hard work paid off and benefited employee happiness, sometimes in surprising ways, such as installing pedometers on participants' smartphones.

‍

Welcoming onboarding and integration

Sessions will once again be organized for new colleagues, during which their digital proficiency will be assessed during the onboarding process. Onboarding at A-kwadraat is an extensive 3-day experience, during which a thorough assessment is made of where new colleagues would best fit within the production departments, taking into account their language proficiency and other skills.

‍

This extensive introduction and evaluation process offers significant added value, not only in terms of determining the most suitable job, but also in forging valuable bonds, making new colleagues feel welcome and appreciated in their new workplace from day one.

‍

Continuing to invest in growth and development

In addition to these efforts, other training courses are also offered, such as flexible training courses as an alternative to temporary unemployment, and courses on cycling safely to work. One of the courses offered, which almost all employees have now taken, "Social Skills," focuses primarily on collaboration, social and cultural skills, communication, creative thinking, etc.

‍

And the customized coaches are not forgotten either, with substantial investments in training courses focused on diversity, resilience, and giving feedback.

‍

Our core value of 'Everyone included' is certainly not just empty words! We are therefore grateful to the Flemish and European governments for their financial support (as part of the so-called Relance project) and their confidence in the implementation of all these projects.