Zuni blog

When you’re a manager responsible for graduates or less experienced staff members, the mentorship approach is one that I find works particularly well. Mentoring though, does take a commitment from both sides, and I have experience being on both sides of the fence. For me, my mentorship comes more in the form of parenting – not like a nag on your should that you just can’t ditch, but a nurturing for those eager to learn and the overwhelming pride that comes with their success.

I’ve been fortunate enough to work with many of these individuals. My time in promotional marketing allowed me to manage 10 under 25s and they all blossomed into fine young professionals of which I am still in touch with all of them today.

When Zuni was expanding last year we were brave enough to say our team of 5 needed a graduate, someone keen to earn and grow their skillset whilst we grew our business. The wonderful team at 303 introduced us to Elise Cooper and straight after my interview with her I came back to the office with my hand on my heart saying “can’t we just hire her now, I love her already”. There was a wholesomeness about Elise, a true, genuine, down to earth, entertaining and intelligent young woman who I knew would put her whole heart into what she wanted to do.

12 months later, Elise is still with us and every day that she takes on a new task I feel so very proud of her achievements and her development. So could you imagine my delight at seeing Elise within the APM Course Guide for 2012 – where she completed her education before embarking on her full time employment adventure?

Like the proud “mother” that I am, and perhaps a little glassy in the eyes, I share this post.