In the 'Rössle' trainees are welcomed as fully fledged team members from the outset, explains Martin Koch in an interview with Christine Mennel from the Vorarlberger Nachrichten Why are you an award-winning business for trainees? Koch: We occasionally receive this award. It is important to me that the staff who come to us are happy working here. I try to meet their requirements when it comes to work hours. Of course, it isn't always possible but a little bit of ''will' and flexibility from our colleagues goes a long way. I see us as one big family! Your business has been going for 140 years now, and this year you have hired your sixtieth trainee. What experience have you gleaned since you took over the 'Rössle' in 1994? Koch: My job is just great, I really enjoy working with young people. They are all very different. For the vast majority of them there are no problems that cannot be resolved – parental support was always expedient here too. Very few have not finished their training. How are parents involved with trainees? Koch: I am always delighted when parents touch base with us now and then to see how their offspring are getting on. What do the pre-requisites have to be for the trainer/trainee relationship to be in harmony? Koch: You have to be approachable and be able to think back to your own training. Things don't always run smoothly. The key thing for me is communication – the more a trainee talks to me, the better their training is. What trainee positions are offered in your business? Koch: We currently have three trainee areas. Three sectors: Restaurant specialist/Chef/Hotel and hospitality assistant. How important are trainees to your business? Koch: Very important. There should be a mix of trainees and specialist staff, otherwise a business becomes out-modish. How do you get good trainees? Koch: From those who have already been trainees. If they have been happy with us, they tell their friends and relatives. We have even taken on a few from other companies because there have been issues. Those who have dropped out of school are also welcome here. If you were to create a wish list, what characteristics would a trainee have? Koch: Above all else, they would be happy in their job, since it is only in that instance that you learn a lot! Respect for colleagues and guests. Flexibility on the job: one day there might be a lot to do, then not as much on another. Wanting to experience something new each and every day. What are young people offered? Koch: Even during their traineeship they are accorded responsibility. It is important that trainees also learn about other sectors after their traineeships. Some return after the season has finished. What preys on the minds of young people? Koch: In our business it is always working hours! However, since we are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, this is less of a problem for us. Does your business take part in trainee competitions? Koch: We leave that to our individual trainees. We pay for their training and they also receive money for the work that they do. Have any great careers started in the Rössle? A few of our trainees now have top positions in the hospitality sector and a few have even become self-employed.