My Mentor Blog: Kathryn

Kathryn is one of our Knowledge Champions at HGS UK. She shares with us her insights on mentorship and professional growth at HGS.

How would you describe the mentorship in HGS?

I joined Clare’s team as a TM in September. This was a completely new role for me and whilst I was motivated to step into this role, it was clear that having Clare as a mentor was really going to underpin my success and confidence going forward. Whilst I was keen to do well from the start, that often came out as aiming for perfection. Clare helped me see that to be successful in the role long-term and to be consistent, I had to focus on the core elements first, so that I could then draw on and build up the detail within the role. From the beginning, Clare has been so approachable; answering questions, taking on board my ideas, and encouraging me to challenge myself within the role. Whenever I have felt overwhelmed in the role, Clare was always available to help me work through it and often gave me a different perspective. Having a mentor has also reinforced the successes I have had. Having someone acknowledge an achievement, no matter how small, has had a significant impact. The mentorship support at HGS is unique and something that sets this organization apart.

How has your mentor helped you shape your career for the better?

Clare has always supported my personal development. Her approach has always been to encourage me to work on my strengths and to build on them. There have been occasions where the team has had to work to support each other and Clare always took on my suggestions for streamlining processes. I have also been given the opportunity to stand in as Ops Manager in Clare's absence which has really been key to developing my skills within the wider MDT.

Recently I started a new role that I was encouraged to apply for and was fully supported by Clare. It is a step away from being a TM but suits all of the skills and strengths that I have been able to develop under her mentorship. I am now a Knowledge Champion, working to raise quality and training standards, supporting others to strive for excellence in their role.

What have you learned from your mentor that has inspired you?

The thing that has inspired me the most about having Clare as a mentor has been her example in nurturing the best in me and the others within the team. Clare really understands the value of each individual's contribution and is proactive in bringing that forward. This is something that I hope to do for people in my team and my other colleagues going forward. A phrase that I would use to summarise the mentorship here at HGS is this: Instead of striving for perfection and failing, strive for excellence and keep it going.

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