Why did the WI decide to join The Well Placed programme?
There are many reasons why this programme ticked all the boxes for the WI, but a strong driver was the sense of partnership that both the WI and the new recruit would mutually benefit from.
It was an opportunity to be part of the movement that enables people from different sectors to join charities and share their experience, because this will bring diversity of skills and opinions. We need a different perspective and challenge to be relevant and to grow.
We also know how difficult it can be for anyone working in the commercial sector to be considered for roles within charities, which should not be the case, so this was a chance to offer something back to the working community and open our doors to feel the wonders of working for the WI.
What has the charity’s experience of the initiative been?
Maya Bhose, Founder of The Well Placed, was key to our engagement in the programme. Her passion was infectious. She is also extremely supportive and invested time in learning about the WI and its needs. There was no time that we had to stop and wonder what comes next, or what is happening, it was a relaxed yet professional partnership and a valuable relationship.
Maya took us on a journey so expectations were met all the way and now we have a wonderful colleague Hannah who has enriched the team and understands what the WI wants to achieve. Hannah has fitted in so well and has already made us think outside of some of the boxes we were perhaps in. It will be interesting to see the outcome of the programme and what can be achieved in 6 months, but we are moving at a pace, which is exciting.
The programme also provides mentor support to both the new recruit and the manager throughout the term of the programme. I also need to mention Clare Richmond, a leadership trainer, who offers both workshop and personalised coaching to help build confidence to settle into a new environment. Her approach helps people to be their authentic self and that very much aligns with our WI culture.
What difference has it made welcoming someone with commercial experience?
It has been a breath of fresh air having a fresh pair of commercial eyes on the project. Someone who can deep dive into the data in a way we haven’t been able to before and use their experience to suggest what may lie behind it. This will be a critical piece of work to support our strategy and we are very grateful for Hannah’s experience and readiness to work with us.
What would you say to any charity considering creating a placement?
Absolutely go for it! The success of an organisation is in its people and their biggest contribution is to test the norms and make you reflect. This programme will bring a new perspective to your charity and that in itself will make you better.
It is also important to invest your time in the new recruit, to have a good induction and onboarding programme in place so they are welcomed, can build bonds with colleagues and key stakeholders, and learn about the organisation quickly.
What advice would you give to someone joining a charity for the first time?
It would be to understand the charity’s purpose and know that you will be part of its impact on society.
The governance structure in charities is also different to the commercial sector. Decisions may take a bit longer, resources are leaner and there are layers of accountability and process, but charity trustees and staff are incredible custodians of charity business.
With a final word on the WI, we rely so much on our brilliant staff team and, like other charities, our salaries will not stand up to the commercial sector, but we are committed to a work-life balance and the softer side of the work experience, because if you are happy in your life, or we can help make your life better, we all win.
Karen Lake, Head of Human Resources and Rhian Connick, Head of Wales, the WI.