On International Mentoring Day, we’re delighted to shine a light on our Pride in People (PiP) programme. We caught up with Alison Delaney, Founder of Little Bird People Development, our PiP facilitator, to explore what mentoring means to her. We discussed how our PiP programme incorporates mentorship and the positive benefits to the mentee, mentor and organisation as a whole.

What is the Pride in People (PiP) programme?
The PIP programme was designed to ensure every colleague’s personal development, from Executive through to new starter, is nurtured – enabling them to grow and thrive in their role, positively contributing to our vision, values, behaviours and culture.

The programme provides a blended modular approach, focused on foundation through to bespoke leadership skills, reflecting the specific needs of the individual and business.

What does mentoring mean to you?
Mentoring, whether formal or informal, personal or professional is a fundamental requirement in everyone’s growth journey. It offers a safe space to explore and challenge perspectives, share experiences and lessons, give guidance and support in order to achieve and exceed potential and aspirations.

How does PiP promote and incorporate positive mentoring/mentorship?
PIP is a shared environment where everyone’s opinion is heard, valued and appreciated. Even though opinions differ, we embrace and learn from the diversity – broadening our understanding of how we can choose to take action and move forward.

What are the benefits, to both the mentor & mentee, and are there any examples from London Biggin Hill that you could refer to?
There is nothing more fulfilling than being a small part of someone’s growth; seeing them achieve their goals and fulfil their potential, passing on lived experiences and wisdom. Equally important are the lessons the mentor learns from the mentee, so the privileged role of a mentor is one to be cherished, respected and appreciated.

The value and benefits for a mentee are unlimited. Knowing you have someone to confide in, someone who will offer healthy challenge based on personal experience, someone who’s been there, done that and wears the T-shirt brings a level of insight and confidence to the choices of the mentee.

At London Biggin Hill, there have been many colleagues request 1:1 time with me after PIP sessions, to explore challenges and aspirations, who have gone on to achieve their goals such as:-

  • Building personal confidence
  • Removing limiting beliefs
  • Achieving promotions

Why should companies invest in mentorship programmes like ‘Pride in People’ and what are the benefits for the Company?
The need for personal development has never been more urgent. Companies of all sectors and sizes understand that to survive in today’s uncertain environment, they need leadership skills and organisational capabilities different from those that helped them succeed in the past.

There’s also growing recognition that leadership development shouldn’t be restricted to the few in senior positions. With the need for innovation and collaborative problem solving, employees across the board are increasingly expected to make decisions that align to corporate strategy and culture. It’s therefore essential that they’re equipped with the relevant and broad skill sets to meet these needs.

Research from the ‘Associate for Talent Development’ (ATD) found that companies that offer comprehensive training programmes have 218% higher income per employee than companies without.

ATD research also suggests that companies who invest in personal development recognise a 24% higher profit margin than those who spend less on training.