Term time

August newsletter

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I hope you have had a good summer!! I have spent some time away from the office with the family trying to dodge Hurricane Ernesto! Now home everyone in our house is in that back to school mode, my eldest is into her final year at University whilst the middle one has A level exams to look forward too(the stress levels could be high) and my youngest returns to secondary school no longer the newbie!!

This time of year always gives me that new term feeling, which feels like a fresh start —especially with the new government in place. This got me thinking about how we, as business leaders, can make the most of this ‘new term’ mindset, particularly when it comes to finding and onboarding new talent.

New term, new talent

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Just like children starting a new school year, bringing new talent into your company can be both exciting and a bit daunting. The key is to focus on the fundamentals: putting people first, identifying potential, and fostering a great company culture. When you get these basics right, the rest tends to follow.

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First day nerves

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Remember your first day at school? The mix of excitement and nerves? New hires feel the same way. A warm welcome and a well-thought-out onboarding process can make a world of difference. Simple things like a friendly introduction, a clear outline of their few weeks, regular check-ins and pairing them with a mentor can help them settle in quickly so they start contributing sooner. For a recent example of a client putting this into action and making a real difference, this story from Avicenna Pharmacy .

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Identifying potential

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Just as teachers look for potential in their students, we should do the same with our new hires. It's not just about their past experiences; it’s about spotting those who have the right attitude, a willingness to learn, and a good fit with your company culture. These are the people who will grow with your business and become key players in your team. If you are curious about how other ambitious businesses are handling this issue, I urge you to listen to this excellent episode of the podcast in which Dave Barnett, CEO of December19 describes his journey to stepping back from the business he founded by identifying talent from within .

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Building a great culture

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A positive company culture where people enjoy coming to work doesn’t happen by accident. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and part of something bigger. Regular check-ins, team-building activities, and opportunities for professional development are all part of this. And, as we navigate the changes ahead with the new government, keeping our focus on people will be more important than ever.

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Looking ahead

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Despite the shifts in the political landscape, our core principles remain the same. We need to stay adaptable, but our commitment to our teams should never waver. By focusing on strong onboarding practices, identifying and nurturing potential, and maintaining a positive culture, we can ensure our businesses not only survive but thrive in this new era.

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As always, if you need any support with your people strategy, don’t hesitate to reach out. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can spark some great ideas! We’re here to help you create a workplace where people love to turn up every day.

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Wishing you all the best for the months ahead.

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Best wishes,

Daniel