In collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Anguilla Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACOCI) hosted another successful workshop for its members on Thursday, October 25th, at La Vue Boutique Inn. The intensive one-day workshop focused on ‘Productivity Basics and Best Practices.’ The conference room was filled with employees, from both the private and public sector of Anguilla, keenly seeking to gain knowledge on improving productivity in the workplace. The facilitator for the workshop was Mr. John Pilgrim. Mr. Pilgrim is the Executive Director of the Barbados National Productivity Council and has been actively involved in the design and development of Productivity Improvement Programmes across the Caribbean. Ms. Vanessa Phala, Senior Specialist for Employers’ Activities at the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean, was also in attendance.
Over the course of the day, participants were able to develop an understanding of the concept of productivity and the benefits of improved productivity. They were further exposed to some of the elements necessary to create a productive work environment, strong teams and produce quality work. The participants were also allowed the opportunity to evaluate the circumstances which may be impeding performance improvement and develop workable solutions. Productivity concerns in Anguilla were also discussed as well as the potential policies and strategies that could be implemented to address these issues. Throughout the session, participants were actively engaged, listening intently, asking insightful questions and participating in vibrant group discussions.
At the end of the workshop, one participant expressed that, “The session was extremely informative and enjoyable, and I wish that it was held over two days instead of one.” Another participant shared a similar sentiment, noting that “the workshop was very motivating and inspiring and I am very eager to get back on the job and utilise and share the productivity techniques I learnt.” Overall, participants indicated that the workshop was very insightful and the skills and knowledge gained would be very useful within their respective workplaces.
The facilitator, Mr. Pilgrim, expressed his hope that participants would gain a greater sense of awareness and appreciation of productivity basics and best practices, particularly formal assessments on a regular basis and the provision of productivity pay, incentives and rewards. He stressed that productivity is beneficial to every person from the employee, to management, to the Government of Anguilla. As such, productivity should always be a priority in the workplace. He further indicated that a report would be compiled and shared with the Chamber of Commerce and Government of Anguilla with practical suggestions and strategies for improving productivity across all sectors of the island.
ILO representative, Ms. Phala, also shared that “the ILO has been conducting similar productivity workshops across the Caribbean region. The goal of the workshop was to create a platform for participants to gain an understanding of what productivity entails, factors affecting productivity, productivity constraints and solutions and the importance of creating an organizational culture that leads to superior quality output and business success.” She further stated that the workshop would provide an opportunity for participants to share their understanding of some of the issues impacting productivity in Anguilla, and it is hoped that those issues would start a wider conversation across the island with the Chamber and Government of Anguilla to discuss and implement potential strategies and institutions, where necessary, for improving overall productivity in Anguilla.
The Anguilla Chamber of Commerce continues to offer valuable services such as these types of training for its members. The Chamber would like to thank all who participated in this workshop and invite all members to take advantage of all opportunities to invest in staff.
Written by Sherise Brooks
