As recruiters, we have a responsibility to establish the profession as a ‘beacon of excellence’ for gender equality and to set an example to the sectors and businesses we partner with. However, before we set out to help others, it’s important that we look at our own industry and address the inequalities that exist, while also taking action to ensure that our firms are truly diverse, inclusive and supporting each individual to reach their full potential.

We understand the power of mentoring and value how it can positively impact an individual. That’s why Women in Recruitment, the APSCo initiative supported by a range of stakeholders in the recruitment sector, has partnered with The Recruitment Network to offer a free online mentoring programme specifically for members of both networks. The programme enables female mentees in the recruitment profession to access experienced mentors (male or female), allowing them to build their confidence and develop their skills through consistent support, guidance and practical help.

This newly developed programme has been launched online initially so that we can facilitate mentoring throughout the COVID-19 crisis – but meetings can take place face to face once circumstances allow. Mentoring relationships will continue for a pre-agreed length of time and planned sessions will be structured in line with the GROW model, focusing on the mentee’s goals, reality, options and way forward. The mentee will then be encouraged to design an action plan with SMART objectives which will enable them to fulfil their career aspirations.

Paula Mitchell, founder of The Condor Collective, who mentors through the programme, said:

“It’s great to have the opportunity to help other women in the recruitment sector reach their full potential. I’m conscious that the recruitment environment can be quite macho and masculine and often many women feel that they need to conform to masculine stereotypes. I wanted to help change this attitude and ensure there was a higher prevalence of female role models in the industry. In talent acquisition, there is a significant drop off rate amongst females as they develop in their career, and as a woman who has two kids and has been in the industry for over 20 years, I wanted to show others that it is possible to balance family life and be successful in recruitment.”

“Plus, I’m a big believer of having external influences in your career to avoid things becoming homogeneous, and it’s so fulfilling knowing that I can help offer others clarity in times of need and provide structure to help people work through their challenges and goals.”

To read the full article published in The Global Recruiter, click here.