Two fifths of workers across the UK say they aren't being given the opportunity to train sufficiently for their jobs.

More than half of workers (55%) believe structured training would make a significant difference to their productivity, yet two fifths (37%) admit their employer doesn't give them the opportunity to ask for a tailored training programme which would help improve their overall performance.

This is particularly true amongst the younger generation of workers, as almost three quarters of 25-34 year olds (71%) believe an individually tailored training programme would significantly enhance their productivity.

The survey carried out on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry amongst 1,000 full and part-time workers also reveals that, whilst employees are aware of the value of training, they may not be translating that training into success.

Over four-fifths of employees (85%) believe that - even though people say training at work is important - in reality, they often don't make the most of it.

Other survey findings:

* Most employees are aware of the value of training, with 95% believing that even the most talented individuals at work need training to make the most of their abilities.

* When it comes to their long-term career progression, most workers feel a training programme tailored to their individual needs would be the most valuable resource. A third of workers (34%) view a focused training programme as more important in enhancing their career than reaching targets, receiving good customer/client feedback, building useful contacts through networking or establishing a good 'out of work' relationship with their boss.

The survey was carried out BMRB on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry from 24-25 July 2004 as part of the DTI's Achieving Best Practive in Your Business Campaign.

Data was gathered from 1210 UK workers (605 male respondents and 605 female) via telephone interviews.

For more information on the campaign go to http://www.dti.gov.uk/bestpractice/.