Nathoo Mbenyane Engineers

Nathoo Mbenyane Engineers (NME) have a mentoring programme for technical personnel, as well as administration and specialised project staff. They consider this a vital part of the organisation, as they identify staff through their potential and willingness to grow. Mentoring and coaching are offered as two interrelated programmes. Mentoring is a longer process and is more relationship oriented, while coaching is short term and task oriented. Their mentoring programme has two objectives. The first is to train future leaders in the organisation, and the second is to provide valuable skills that can be used to advance career paths. The company would like the mentee to have a well-grounded knowledge of the organisation, client expectations and the industry at the end of the programme. They also aim to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and retain exceptional talent. Some of the mentees are employed in the organisation and others are sourced from unemployed candidates. Action planning is a clear, step-by-step process, helping the mentee create a vision of where they are going. Clarifying the vision, creating a plan and setting goals are recognised tools for self-management. Their mentors assist by breaking down goals into manageable targets that are ‘SMART’ – that is, Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound. Mentors also help mentees develop strategies for achieving their targets, and their goals. Mentees are paid a salary during the entire process from inception to completion and are rewarded through their various stages of development for achieved tasks. Mentors and trainers are directors and managers. The company have found that coaching employees helps them feel comfortable with management and encourages open communication, thereby resulting in the desired outcome – i.e. a positive work experience. They have also worked closely with external organisations, such as SANRAL and the Department of Transport, by mentoring/coaching individuals within their graduate programmes and employ.

As a Level 1 BBBEE organisation and a 100% South Africanowned organisation, it is second nature to ensure that all employees have an opportunity to benefit from the mentoring and coaching programmes. Some of these employees fall outside of the scorecard. However, the company believe in equal opportunity for all staff.