Worcester Business Journal

16 Worcester Business Journal | September 16, 2024 | wbjournal.com Creating an Inclusive Workplace: e Importance of Employee Development Programs By: Debra Lewis, VP Enterprise Technology Operations Officer at e Hanover P rofessional development plans are essential for growth and fulfillment, helping employees achieve their career objectives and making rewarding opportunities a reality. is is especially true for individuals from marginalized populations who may benefit from additional support. A well-constructed development plan identifies key skills to be sharpened or enhanced for success at current or next levels. It also highlights knowledge gaps to be filled and identifies professional networking opportunities and mentors for guidance. To initiate a strong plan, employees should collaborate with their managers, organizational leaders, and mentors to pinpoint crucial skills and areas for knowledge expansion while continuing to refine established skills. Individual employees are responsible for their professional development. However, managers and leaders must actively support employees, particularly those from disadvantaged communities who may need help making connections, finding networks, and creating strong advocacy. Identifying an "accountability buddy" can be beneficial, providing honest and constructive feedback on skill development. Having a trusted observer can help employees see things they might miss independently. Strong development plans should also consider the roles of mentors and sponsors. Mentors provide personalized advice and support, helping employees navigate their career paths. is is crucial for individuals from underserved groups who may lack access to informal networks. A true mentorship program connects individuals with broader professional networks, offering access to new opportunities and resources. Oen, this means connecting employees with colleagues and mentors outside their immediate teams, fostering relationships across departments and promoting a more inclusive culture. At e Hanover, we are committed to talent development through a structured process for creating individual development plans. is employee-led process allows each employee to identify their career aspirations and work with their manager, mentors, and sponsors to connect aspirations and growth objectives with opportunities. e Hanover also sponsors an employee mentorship program called e Grid. is program promotes our culture of continuous learning and development, essential for adapting to change and fostering innovation. We use an automated system to pair mentors and mentees based on personality, goals, and focus areas, oen partnering individuals from different departments and backgrounds. rough mentorship, experienced employees pass on institutional knowledge and expertise to newer colleagues while also learning from their mentees. Sponsorship provides personalized support through advocacy, visibility, and promotion. A sponsor is a seasoned individual with the experience and influence to actively advocate for an employee, connecting them to new advancement opportunities. A sponsor, who understands an employee's unique skills and capabilities, plays a crucial role in the talent pipeline by advocating for them, especially those from underserved groups, and using their influence to li others. By prioritizing structured employee development programs and promoting mentorship and sponsorship, organizations can create an environment where all employees can thrive in a more inclusive, vibrant, engaging and innovative workplace. JOIN US jobs.hanover.com 701-10546 (5/24) hanover.com We are The Hanover A company where people feel safe to be their authentic selves and empowered to offer their unique perspectives. With you, every step 440 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01653 F O C U S D I V E R S I T Y & I N C LU S I O N Special Sponsored Section Debra Lewis W

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