In partnership with Resourcing Matters, Motability Operations has introduced a Mentoring Programme for its new graduate intake. “Our aim is to provide a challenging work environment and at the same time support graduates to be effective in their role as quickly as possible – mentoring provides that support” said Jo McMillan, HR Specialist.

Working with Jo, our first step was to define the objectives and desired benefits for both the business and graduates. Amongst the many benefits, distinguishing Motability Operations as an employer of choice, in an extremely competitive graduate marketplace, was crucial.

Once expectations were clear, we worked to get senior management backing. Mike Betts, CEO, agreed to be our champion, increasing the credibility and reputation of the programme within the organisation. The Board of Directors agreed to participate as mentors, which clearly signalled top level commitment to the Graduate Mentoring Programme.

It was also important that all participants were prepared for their role so we designed workshops for mentors and mentees; line managers were briefed regarding their participation. Tailored training at the outset was important. It provided opportunities for peer interaction, sharing of experiences and a means of managing expectations among the mentor and mentee groups. It also ensured that clear boundaries were set around the mentoring relationship including practical issues such as time allocation, programme length, roles and responsibilities. Agreement about the relationship, confidentiality, methods of communication and feedback was also covered.

At the mentee/graduate workshop we worked closely to support the new recruits to develop career, experience and skill goals. Some of the goals included building credible reputations, developing a comprehensive network and building self-confidence. Incorporating a clear goal achievement process provided an effective way of maintaining motivation and measuring outcomes.

At the six-month point, we plan to administer an OPQ 32 psychometric test which will give each graduate feedback on their personal work style. This will provide another perspective that may be used in their mentoring relationship.

The programme is running for 12 months – and throughout that time it will be regularly managed and evaluated by Jo McMillan. “It is an exciting step for us and one which we believe adds value to our graduate recruitment proposition.”