The Impact of Action Learning Sets for Small Businesses
Participating in the Action Learning Sets has definitely boosted my confidence, especially when it comes to speaking in groups. While I still have work to do, I can see that the more I practice, the better I get. Realising that I can do this has been a huge confidence boost, and it has been great to connect with other members of the cohort, who were incredibly supportive. This newfound confidence is going to be beneficial for our business as well because it makes me more comfortable talking to people, even those who I have not met before.
New Guard Mental Health Delivery is a mental health training business that focuses on delivering workplace mental health training, well-being training, and vulnerability awareness training. One of the key programmes that Lisa Kenny and Chris Kenny developed was a training package specifically designed for security guards in shopping centres, which they have successfully delivered across the country.
The variety of experience levels – ranging from those just starting to those who had been in business for years, really enriched the discussions. Even the person who had just launched their business brought up points about structure that made me realise there were things I had not considered in my own business, especially since our service took off quickly and the business had not fully caught up.
Alongside the success of their mental health training programmes and their localised well-being craft sessions, Lisa wanted to improve her skills in promoting their business services. Through the Connecting for Good networking session, she met Tracey who introduced her to the Action Learning Sets (as part of the Social Enterprise Gateshead programme). Lisa then joined the Action Learning Set, a group meeting regularly to discuss their issues, challenges, and opportunities. The participants are from senior levels of their social enterprise and in various stages of business, creating an open and diverse group of individuals who share their thoughts, experiences, and solutions.
This diversity also allowed me to share my experiences and offer advice that might help others. It made me feel like a valued part of the group, which helped boost my confidence.
The sessions were held bi-weekly online for four months, with each session structured in the same format allowing consistency and re-assurance for the participants. Each participant would have their own time to share the issues on which they needed help or advice. The facilitator would then summarise everything, supporting participants to ask any clarifying questions and propose viable solutions to the specific issues on hand.
The structured approach of the Action Learning sessions, along with the supportive environment and diverse perspectives were key factors in Lisa’s positive experience. Overall, the sessions not only helped her on a business level but also helped her personal development. She was able to boost her confidence and improve her listening skills. She has become better at listening and taking in what other people are saying, which ties in with what they often discuss in their business, especially when communicating with vulnerable people. Through the Action Learning sets, she was able to practice and hone her Active Listening skills in a meaningful way.
I would recommend it to anyone. It has had a significant impact on our business. I have met people through the Action Learning sets who have directly helped our business. For example, Tracey connected me with someone who works in Social Investment, which led to further information about funding. This was helpful as we are now getting more support for our business in areas like governance and marketing, which are crucial for attracting investment and grants in the future. It feels like our business’ foundation is becoming much stronger.
If you are interested in taking part in our upcoming Action Learning Sets, please click the link below to find out more information and to apply.
Action Learning Set Application Form
The Social Enterprise Gateshead programme is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, it aims to foster connections and develop new and innovative networks led by businesses with a social purpose.
Find out more about www.newguardmhtd.com
