| Summary: | Laxity in managerial competencies due to relevant and appropriate skills has often been linked to
small business failure despite its vital contribution to the economic development in South Africa. Skills
development is one of the major challenges faced by South Africans, with more than 60% of the
labour force being unskilled. This affects large percentage of small businesses around the country
with unskilled employees evidenced in the day to day operation of the business. The small
Manufacturing Industry in the Vanderbijlpark area of the Gauteng Province is a prime example of
businesses that are affected by the short supply of relevant skilled personnel in the labour market.
Nevertheless, the primary objective of this study was to undertake an evaluation concerning the
significance of business skills and training needs for business success. Secondary objectives were to
determine whether training in business skills as well as technical skills for the employees, could add
value to the business success.
Research methodology included a literature review and an empirical study, making use of the survey
method through self-administered questionnaires. Using mixed research design methods, the study
collected data on the knowledge, training needs and attitudes of the employees. The statistical
analyses included descriptive statistics, frequencies, Chi-square tests, linear regression and ANOVA.
Thence, the Cronbach’s alpha was used to measure reliability of the research results. This however
reduced the situation in which either test or scale is wrongly discarded or test criticized for not
generating trustworthy result. Additionally, the associated concept of internal consistency,
homogeneity and unidimensionality was employed to improve the use of alpha. The research findings
established that training in business skills and related types of skills was essential for the success of a
business. The findings further showed and confirmed that, effective training foster and enhanced
sales results, annual turnover, product quality and employee skills and development.
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