Lauren Parry: Her AN2 Career Development experience
We had a question and answer session with Lauren, who shared her Agile Nation2 Career Development Programme journey with us; her thoughts on what she learnt, tips for future participants and why it’s important that we improve the economic position of women in Wales.
Your name: Lauren Parry
Where you work: HOOP Recruitment.
About the programme
How did you hear about the Career Development Programme?
One of my directors, Paul, approached me with the opportunity and encouraged me to apply for the programme.
Why did you apply for the Career Development Programme?
I’ve been with HOOP for almost 4 years now and was fortunate enough to be employed into the business during its very early stages. From day 1 I knew I would be with HOOP for the long-haul and aspired to become an established leader in the business. This programme seemed like the perfect opportunity to learn more about myself and the possible leader I could become and the type of leader I would want to be.
What did you find most challenging about the Programme?
What I found most challenging was recognising that I had the authority to challenge others if I felt that I deserved more – despite these being difficult conversations to have.
Did you get help and support from other participants/tutor/family/friends? How did they help?
Yes! Bethan Baldwin, my learning and development partner was amazing from start to finish and was always accessible to offer support. I was also very fortunate that the other participants on the course were extremely lovely and open to sharing their own experiences, thoughts and ambitions/goals.
On what has been learnt
Has the Programme taught you anything about yourself?
The programme has taught me to put myself first and to take every opportunity.
Has anything changed for you in work since completing the programme?
Yes! When I began the programme I was a Senior Consultant and have since received two promotions. Shortly after completing the programme I was promoted to Team Leader and a few months later was promoted to Divisional Manager. I now manage a team of amazing consultants overseeing the recruitment of temporary and permanent qualified staff in both the public and private sector.
Have you applied what you have learnt in your life outside of work? If so, how?
The key thing I have applied outside of work Is valuing my time more, putting myself first and being content with my decision making. The programme encourages you to back yourself and trust your own decisions – which makes you so much more content both in and out of the workplace!
Your message to future participants
What would you say to someone considering applying?
I would say to absolutely do it – you have nothing to lose but so much to gain. It’s an incredible opportunity to meet other like-minded individuals and make friendships and connections that you would not make anywhere else.
What would you say to someone worried about writing assignments?
Don’t be! You are inundated with support and resources from Day 1. The classroom sessions discuss the assignment and the content required – the sessions include note taking your ideas, thoughts, opinions and that of others throughout your sessions to help construct the assignment. By the end of your session the content for the assignment is there – you just need to structure it!
Our class also created a WhatsApp group where we exchanged ideas, thoughts and asked any questions we had. In addition to this, there are lots of resources on the Chwarae Teg website and the Course Leader is always accessible for any additional support.
On empowering women to achieve their potential
I think it’s extremely important that we all work together to make Wales a fairer place for women as I think diversity, respect and fair opportunities for all employees, regardless of gender, should be a key focus in any business.