I Initially applied for this in-house mentoring program in the first year of its launch back in 2020. I wasn’t successful then and when the next season was released, I decided not to put forward my application. I simply didn’t feel that I would be able to give it my all and throw myself into the program due to a forthcoming wedding (mine) and a huge project of a full renovation of our home.
Season 3 soon came round and this time I felt it was a good time for me to be brave and submit the application once more. To my delight I was successful and was paired with Ian Roberts, our Commercial Director. Having worked together in previous years, I was both excited and nervous at the prospect!
I reached out to a couple of Ian’s mentees from previous years and asked for their opinions and what would they do differently. I got a great mix of information and decided that my one take from this was to be open, brave and to push myself out of my comfort zone.
The 1st session was all about Ian, his journey, how he has got to where he is now and the trials and tribulations along the way. This not only inspired me, but also confirmed to me that the next session (the one I feared the most) I must be truly open and honest.
It felt like a “this is your life” moment at times, and I was surprised that things I shared flowed so easily, things I hadn’t shared to anyone outside of my circle, and things that clearly tormented me and have made me the way I am now. We built a good bond and a huge level of trust, and whilst exceptionally scary, this was also very empowering.
The sessions that followed were about looking at me as a person, what makes me tick, and also gaining feedback from my peers, colleagues and associates. This showed me a great overview and cemented what I probably already knew but wasn’t prepared to accept! It also showed me where my strengths were professionally, and where my personality weaknesses were too.
I have received some amazing tips through podcasts, discussions, action plans, feedback and just some good old-fashioned chats. I’ve had a few reality checks along the way. These sessions gradually encouraged me to make sure my voice is heard, showed me my worth and helped me to pinpoint the direction that I wish my career to take.
I guess the point of this review is to say: take those steps (no matter how small) towards reaching your goals, believe in yourself, and be brave. The person you would like to be is usually the person that others already see, sometimes you just need to be a little less self-critical and run with those super strengths that you have. You will not be good at everything 100% of the time but if you focus on those things that you are naturally great at, you will get there.
Don’t be afraid to be your biggest cheerleader, it will get you the results you want. Whilst it may take time and probably won’t happen overnight, with the right encouragement, direction and self-belief, you will get there 😊
Lisa Davey
With over two decades of experience in sales support and customer service, Lisa has been a key part of Agena Group since September 2019. As the Sales Support Team Lead, she excels in driving efficiency, fostering client relationships, and ensuring top-notch service delivery. Lisa's commitment to excellence and innovation has significantly contributed to the team's success. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys beach walks with her dog, finding balance and inspiration in nature.