The social housing sector faces unprecedented challenges, including the need for new and innovative approaches to address the changing and diverse needs of different communities. Never has the need for strong leadership been greater. Successfully navigating change requires leaders to adapt to the evolving landscape and be proactive in driving change from within. This article will examine key challenges facing the housing sector, the capability gap, the impact of hybrid working, and strategies to improve communication, morale, and performance. We will also discuss the importance of people-focused leadership, the development of strong organisational cultures, and the long-term benefits of investment in learning and development to help navigate the future.
Are We Failing Managers?
It’s well known that the success of an organisation is closely linked to the strength of its workplace culture. A positive workplace culture not only boosts employee morale but also enhances productivity, innovation, and overall business performance. The foundation of this culture begins at the top, with management playing a crucial role in shaping the work environment, but are we failing managers? A recent CMI study, conducted in partnership with YouGov, emphasises the pressing need to improve management performance and provide support for managers. We will delve into the importance of enhancing workplace culture from the top down, with a focus on managerial performance and support.
In The News: September 2023
A round-up of the latest leadership and management news:
Commuting vs inflation: the growing financial burden on UK workers
A recent study reveals that commuting is now rising faster than inflation, so what does this mean for businesses?
Are UK businesses suffering from a crisis in leadership?
The Chartered Management Institute’s (CMI) CEO, HR and L&D experts share their views on how the government and businesses can better prepare leaders for the future.
Report finds majority of UK companies may be guilty of ‘Mental Health-washing’
A recent survey shows that nearly eight in ten UK employees do not believe their employer when they discuss or promote the mental health initiatives on offer.
Sick leave hits 10-year high in cost of living crisis
UK employees missed work for an average of 7.8 days over the past year, the highest level in over a decade, according to new research
Finding the Right Place and Head Space to Learn
3.9 million people in the UK are living with mental health conditions and with two million of those in employment there’s no denying that its impact is being felt in the workplace. Mark Soanes, a Director of learning and development specialists Call of the Wild says that finding the right place and head space to learn is crucial.
Today marks a moment in time to reflect on how employers can proactively reduce the factors that contribute to poor mental health.
Christmas Team-Building Event
The holiday season is slowly creeping up on us, and for many businesses, that means it’s time to start planning the annual office Christmas party. However, instead of viewing this event as a mere end-of-year social, consider it as a valuable opportunity to invest in both your business and your staff. At Call of the Wild, we believe that a Christmas team-building event can be more than just a festive celebration; it can be a strategic move to strengthen your team and set the stage for a successful year ahead. We’ve put together a Festive team-building programme that will help build on the successes of 2023 for a brilliant 2024 for the whole team:
Atplas Invests in the Future as Part of the AVK Group
The Managing Director of Atlantic Plastics (Atplas) has set-out his future investment and growth strategy for the Bridgend-based business as part of the global AVK Group.
Atplas was acquired by the AVK Group in June 2022 having been first established in 1974 to manufacture water meter boxes for the UK water industry. The company moved to its current site on Brackla Industrial Estate in Bridgend in 1995 and now occupies 11,000 square feet of space and employs 165.
Empowering Teams for Innovation
Cultivating a culture of innovation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity for survival and growth. It’s also not something that happens overnight, but takes work. Everyday. And empowering teams for innovation has to come from the top. In this blog, we’ll delve into key strategies and insights that can transform your teams into innovation powerhouses.
Adapting to Change and Uncertainty
Change and uncertainty have become the norm rather than the exception, and the ability to navigate these challenges is more vital than ever. On a daily basis we’re seeing clients struggle to steer their teams through these uncharted waters. This blog post is tailored to provide you with invaluable insights, proven strategies, and actionable steps to help you navigate these unpredictable waters and aid you in adapting to change and uncertainty with confidence and effectiveness.
Building a Culture of Trust in Your Organisation
One of the most crucial aspects of building a successful organisation is cultivating a culture of trust. Trust forms the foundation upon which teams thrive, employees excel, and businesses flourish. Trust takes time to build and nurture as part of the culture of trust within an organisation.
The Power of Shared Experiences in Team Building
In today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, successful teams are the backbone of every thriving organisation. These teams are not merely a collection of individuals working together but rather a cohesive unit bound by shared experiences that foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding. The power of shared experiences in team building cannot be underestimated, as they play a pivotal role in strengthening relationships, promoting effective communication, and ultimately driving team success. We explore the significance of shared experiences in team building, backed by research from the Yale University study titled “Shared Experiences Are Amplified” (Boothby, Clark, & Bargh, 2014).
Apprenticeship Success Stories: A Journey of Resilience and Growth
As an Apprenticeship Learning Coach, I have had the privilege of witnessing apprenticeship success stories countless times over the years. Recently, I had the opportunity to celebrate the graduation of two remarkable individuals who had been under my guidance for the past six years. Their journey through various apprenticeship levels, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and personal transitions, exemplifies the true essence of resilience and dedication.
Unleashing Team Potential: Why Outdoor Team Building is the Key
In the fast-paced and competitive world of business, nurturing a strong and cohesive team is crucial for success. While traditional team-building activities have their merits, it’s time for companies to explore the benefits of taking team-building days outdoors. By shifting these activities outside, organisations can unlock a myriad of advantages, including enhanced team dynamics, improved mental well-being, fresh perspectives, and the opportunity to push individuals outside their comfort zones. Let’s delve into these positive outcomes and discover why the outdoors should be the new frontier for team building.
Leading with Resilience: Building Stronger Teams
In today’s rapidly changing landscape, effective leadership is essential for building strong teams and ensuring success. The challenges faced by leaders require not only competence but also resilience—the ability to adapt, persevere, and inspire others in the face of adversity. In this blog post, we will explore how to lead with resilience and discuss strategies for building stronger teams in any sector.
Why You Should be Doing Risk Assessments for Home or Hybrid Workers
The number of people working from home or in a hybrid setting has increased dramatically in recent years. This trend is likely to continue, as more and more businesses embrace the benefits of remote work. However, it is important to remember that working from home or in a hybrid setting can pose a number of risks to employees’ health and safety.
In The News: May 2023
We’ve pulled together some of the latest leadership and management-related news.
This includes some topical subjects which many of you might also be experiencing in your workplace.
Unlock Your Leadership Potential: Why You Should Consider an ILM Level 4 or 5 Management Apprenticeship in Wales
In today’s competitive business landscape, organisations are constantly seeking skilled leaders who can navigate complex challenges and drive growth. If you aspire to excel in a management role and enhance your professional development, an ILM Level 4 or 5 Management Apprenticeship in Wales could be the ideal opportunity for you. These apprenticeships, offered by Call of the Wild, provide a structured and practical approach to developing your leadership abilities. Below we will explore the key reasons why you should consider embarking on this transformative journey.
Weartech invests in people as workforce grows to 105
A Port Talbot-based manufacturer has expanded with 11 new recruits, taking its workforce to more than 100 people, and recently completed a bespoke learning and development programme with Call of the Wild.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Leadership Decisions
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in various industries, and its influence on leadership decisions is increasingly evident. In this blog, we will explore the immediate impact of AI on leadership decision-making processes and delve into its potential future implications for teams. From enhancing data-driven decision-making to transforming team dynamics, AI is reshaping the way leaders operate and envision the future.
What Does The Outdoors Have To Offer Me?
What things can we learn from spending time in the outdoors? Specifically, how can walking in nature help us prevent depression, anxiety and poor overall health?
Elevate Management Skills in your Organisation with an ILM Higher Apprenticeship in Management
Our ILM management apprenticeship programme provides an incredible opportunity for growth whilst having a significant impact on your organisations. We currently have spaces available on our Level 4 and Level 5 Higher Apprenticeships in Management and encourage you to consider embarking on the transformative journey of an apprenticeship.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills What Are The Barriers?
Communication and interpersonal skills are important in both home and work life. However, various barriers can impede effective communication and interpersonal interactions. In this article we highlight some of the barriers that exist and suggest some strategies to overcome them.
We’ve identified 5 main barriers which are commonly encountered.
An Old Name For a New Way of Being
Wales is in the headlines this week as our national park celebrates its 66th anniversary and unveils a new brand and an updated official name. The park has lived with a dual English and Welsh name for a number of years but is now taking the step to embrace the original name of the region and be known officially as Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, pronounced ban-aye bruch-ein-iog, with the ch making the same sound as in loch!
In The News: March 2023
We’ve pulled together some of the latest leadership and management related news.
This includes some topical subjects which many of you might also be experiencing in your workplace.