I am delighted to share that the second round of the 2024 IHI Hospitality Management Awards nominations process is now underway. This year, we received 143 nominations across the 13 categories.
It’s important to remember that being nominated for an IHI Hospitality Management Award is a recognition of a nominee’s commitment and dedication to their team, organisation, and the industry.
At this point, the Judges have now completed their evaluation and scored each nomination per the criteria outlined in the Nomination Guide and information requested in the Nomination Form. They have selected the top five nominees to proceed to Round 2, the Interview Round.
A reminder that the winner of each award category will be announced at the IHI Founders Evening & Hospitality Management Awards on Thursday, November 28th at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road.
On Thursday, October 3rd, the IHI will host “From Panic to Control: Responding to Cyber Threats” with guest speaker Kevin Tierney, Managing Director of Tierney’s. Kevin will discuss some cyber security issues our industry has faced this past year and a step-by-step process for dealing with them. Click here to register.
Our next IHI student and industry event, “College to Career, Your Next Steps” will take place on Thursday, October 10th in ATU Galway. This will be a great opportunity to connect with industry and academic colleagues for those in the area. Please email monica.morgan@ihi.ie if you would like to join.
On Tuesday, October 15th the IHI will host “Revenue Management 101: How to Increase Revenue Without Being an Expert “ , a Lunch & Learn webinar with guest speaker Mike Chuma, VP of Global Marketing of IDEAS. This webinar will explore easy ways to increase your revenue without needing expert skills. This session is perfect for hospitality professionals looking to maximize profits with simple, effective strategies. Click here to register.
On Thursday, October 24th the IHI will host “How To Use Key Customer Data, Insights & AI To Increase Sales In Hospitality” guest speaker Paula Coogan. Head of Sales Miiro Hotels. Click here to register.
I hope you will join us at a few of our upcoming events and as always, I am here to support you and I welcome your views on IHI matters, so please feel free to reach out at president@ihi ie
All the best,
Daragh O'Neill FIHI IHI President
Grace Carroll
Hospitality Sales Manager
The Convention Centre Dublin
Ross Duffy
Gallery Manager
The Westbury Hotel
Sid Datta
Laura Jones
Sales & Marketing Manager
Talbot Hotel -Clonmel
Ruslan Mikailov
Deputy General Manager
The Gibson Hotel
Director of Food & Beverage
Intercontinental Hotel Dublin
Joey Carter
Director of Operations
Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort
Sean Dinan General Manager
Levy Ireland – Aviva Stadium
Marco Zinanni
Sales & Marketing Manager
Abbey Court
Fiona Diffney
HR Manager
Ballyfin Demesne
HotelTime Solutions is a comprehensive, feature rich platform with cloud-based solutions for hotels, restaurants, SPAs, and event management. HotelTime systems are currently running in more than 640 hotels and restaurants in 20 countries world-wide. With more than 22 years in the industry, HotelTime Solutions is a leading provider of innovative hospitality management solutions, empowering hotels, and chains worldwide to streamline operations, drive revenue, and enhance guest experiences. With a complex suite of tools and a customer-centric approach, HotelTime Solutions is at the forefront of hospitality technology, enabling clients to thrive in a dynamic and competitive market landscape. https://www.hoteltime.com/
Upcoming IHI Events
From Panic to Control: Responding to Cyber Threats
Webinar
Thursday, October 3rd 10:30 with guest speaker Kevin Tierney
Managing Director of Tierney’s
College to Career, Your Next Steps
Student & Industry Event
Thursday, October 10th 10:00 ATU Galway
Revenue Management 101: How to Increase Revenue Without Being an Expert
Lunch & Learn Webinar
Tuesday, October 15th 1:00 with guest speaker Mike Chuma VP of Global Marketing, IDEAS
IHI Members’ Autumn Social
Thursday, October 17th, 2024 6:00 pm The Moxy Cork Camden Place For
How To Use Key Customer Data, Insights & AI To Increase Sales In Hospitality
Webinar
Thursday, October 24th
10:30
with guest speaker Paula Coogan Head of Sales Miiro Hotels
How to Create A Seasonal Pricing Strategy
As a hotelier, one of the most critical aspects of revenue management is setting the right prices at the right times. This is where a seasonal pricing strategy comes into play. By adjusting your rates according to demand fluctuations throughout the year, you can maximise occupancy and revenue In this blog, we'll explore what a seasonal pricing strategy is, why it's essential, and how you can effectively implement it in your hotel
Understanding Seasonal Pricing Strategy
At Net Affinity, our aim is for you to understand seasonal pricing strategy A seasonal pricing strategy involves adjusting room rates based on the time of year, taking into account various factors such as demand, local events, holidays, and competition
Hotels often experience peaks and troughs in demand due to seasonal changes, such as holiday seasons, summer vacations, or special events in the area.
By strategically setting different price points for these periods, hotels can maximise revenue during highdemand periods and attract more guests during low-demand times.
Why Implement a Seasonal Pricing Strategy?
Maximise Revenue
The primary goal of a seasonal pricing strategy is to optimise revenue By charging higher rates during peak seasons when demand is high, you can significantly boost your income Conversely, offering lower rates during off-peak times can help maintain occupancy and reduce the risk of empty rooms
Stay Competitive
In the hospitality industry, staying competitive is crucial Your competitors are likely adjusting their rates based on demand, and you need to do the same to avoid losing potential guests to other hotels
Improve Occupancy
By offering attractive rates during slower seasons, you can encourage bookings and keep your hotel occupied year-round.
This not only improves cash flow but also helps maintain staff morale and operational efficiency.
Respond to Market Trends
A well-crafted seasonal pricing strategy allows you to respond quickly to market trends and external factors that influence demand, such as economic conditions or travel restrictions
Steps to Create a Seasonal Pricing Strategy
Analyse Historical Data
The first step in creating a seasonal pricing strategy is to analyse your hotel's historical data Look at occupancy rates, average daily rates (ADR), and revenue per available room (RevPAR) over the past few years
Identify patterns in demand, such as high occupancy during the summer or a dip in bookings during the winter This data will provide valuable insights into when you should adjust your rates
Identify Peak and Off-Peak Seasons
Based on your historical data analysis, identify the peak and off-peak seasons for your hotel. Peak seasons may include holiday periods, school vacations, or local events that attract visitors to your area. Off-peak seasons are typically the times when demand is lower, such as the weeks following the holiday rush or during the shoulder seasons between high travel periods.
Segment Your Audience
Different segments of your audience may have different booking behaviors For example, business travelers may be more price-sensitive during weekdays, while leisure travelers may be willing to pay higher rates during weekends or holidays Understanding your audience segments allows you to tailor your seasonal pricing strategy to meet their specific needs and preferences
Set Your Seasonal Rates
Once you've identified your peak and off-peak seasons and segmented your audience, it's time to set your seasonal rates
During peak seasons, you can increase your rates to capitalise on high demand. However, it's important to strike a balance – setting rates too high could deter potential guests. During off-peak seasons, consider offering discounts, packages, or added value to attract bookings.
Monitor Competitor Pricing
Keep an eye on what your competitors are doing if they are offering lower rates during off-peak periods, you may need to adjust your pricing strategy to remain competitive.
Similarly, if competitors are charging higher rates during peak seasons, you may have the opportunity to increase your rates while still offering value
Implement Dynamic Pricing
Dynamic pricing allows you to adjust rates in real-time based on demand, occupancy, and market conditions This approach can be especially effective during peak seasons when demand fluctuates rapidly By using dynamic pricing tools, you can ensure that your rates are always optimised to maximise revenue
Promote Your Seasonal Offers
Once you've set your seasonal rates, promote them through your marketing channels Highlight any special offers, packages, or discounts available during off-peak periods to attract more guests Additionally, consider creating exclusive offers for repeat customers or loyalty program members to encourage repeat bookings
Evaluate and Adjust
A seasonal pricing strategy is not set in stone Regularly evaluate its effectiveness by analysing your occupancy rates, ADR, and RevPAR
If you find that your strategy isn't delivering the desired results, don't hesitate to make adjustments This could involve tweaking your rates, changing your promotional tactics, or re-evaluating your peak and off-peak periods. Remember, a successful seasonal pricing strategy is not just about increasing rates during high-demand periods; it's also about offering value and attracting guests during slower times. With careful planning and execution, your hotel can thrive year-round.
If you’d like to learn more about seasonal pricing strategy, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team. Alternatively, why not read our latest blog and explore the power of review mining for enhanced hotel performance?
EMPLOYER BRANDING SUMMIT
Elevate your employer brand to attract and retain the best talent
November 21st at CHQ Building - EPIC Museum
#GPTWEBS
We are thrilled to welcome you to the 6th edition of the Employer Branding Summit, held at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in the CHQ Building in Dublin. This summit will feature insightful talks from experienced speakers, covering key topics such as storytelling and cultivating brand champions to strengthen your employer brand.
We look forward to seeing you in November. Hurry, only a number of limited passes are available
Dunluce Lodge and Seaton House enhance guest experience with Journey
Valor Hospitality selects Journey as its preferred hotel technology partner
Journey, a leader in hotel technology solutions, is excited to announce its latest partnership with Valor Hospitality. This collaboration aims to enhance the guest experience through state-of-the-art technology and personalised service offerings at two exceptional properties in Northern Ireland and Scotland: Dunluce Lodge and Seaton House.
Unveiling Dunluce Lodge: A Haven on the Northern Irish Coast
Perched on the rugged cliffs of the Northern Irish coast, Dunluce Lodge is a luxurious escape situated alongside the fourth fairway of the world-famous Royal Portrush Golf Club. As the region’s only 5-star resort, it offers breathtaking views and unparalleled tranquillity. This boutique hotel, inspired by its stunning natural surroundings, is set to benefit from Journey’s cutting-edge technology, including its ecommerce platform and Experience Management System (EMS), alongside digital marketing solutions. These initiatives are designed to drive direct bookings, streamline operations, and enhance guest engagement. Journey will leverage its expertise to amplify Dunluce Lodge’s presence in the competitive luxury market, attracting discerning travellers from across the globe.
“Dunluce Lodge is synonymous with luxury and excellence,” said Stephen Meldrum, General Manager of Dunluce Lodge. “Our partnership with Journey is a testament to our commitment to providing our guests with the highest standard of service. By integrating Journey’s technology, we are not only enhancing the guest experience but also positioning Dunluce Lodge at the forefront of the hospitality industry in Northern Ireland.” “I’ve worked with Journey for a number of years and seen some impressive commercial results. I can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve together at Dunluce Lodge and Seaton House,” said Sinead McNicholl, Director of Sales and Marketing.
Seaton House: A Scottish Gem
Seaton House, nestled in the heart of Scotland, is a magnificent 5-star hotel situated near the first tee of the world-famous Old Course in historic St Andrews. As part of this partnership, Journey will focus on elevating Seaton House’s brand visibility through strategic digital marketing services. Journey aims to position this property as a top choice for luxury travellers seeking an authentic Scottish experience.
A Shared Vision for Excellence
“We are excited to embark on this partnership with Journey, a company that shares our passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences. By integrating their innovative technology and marketing expertise, we are confident that Seaton House will set the standard for luxury hospitality in Scotland, offering our guests an unparalleled and memorable stay." said Michael Davern, GM Seaton House.
"We are thrilled to partner with Valor Hospitality in bringing Dunluce Lodge and Seaton House to the forefront of the luxury hospitality industry," said Elli Regan, Director of Ireland at Journey. "Our commitment to innovation and excellence aligns perfectly with Valor Hospitality’s dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences. We look forward to working closely with their team to deliver outstanding results." Journey partners with over 80 leading hotels and resorts in Scotland and Ireland. Discover more about Journey’s technology and services at journey.travel.
70% of Hospitality Businesses
Cite Skills Shortages as a Major Challenge, Therefore, Upskilling Staff Has Never Been More Critical…
In Ireland's hospitality industry, high-quality training is essential to maintaining standards of service, safety, and customer satisfaction. With 70% of hospitality businesses citing a shortage of skilled workers as a major challenge, upskilling staff is no longer optional but a crucial step toward sustaining competitiveness and operational efficiency. Proper training ensures compliance with safety regulations, enhances the overall guest experience, and increases employee confidence, all of which contribute to the success and reputation of a business. Whether it's mastering barista skills, providing exceptional service, or ensuring food safety, investing in staff training prepares your team to meet the growing demands of the industry.
Why Choose Future Proof Training Academy?
The Future Proof Training Academy, as a sister company of Excel Recruitment, deeply understands the unique needs of the hospitality industry. With over 20 years of experience in recruiting staff for this sector, the company understands the critical role that well-trained employees play in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. Many of the trainers and staff have extensive backgrounds in hospitality, bringing practical insights and real-life experience to the training programmes that we do. Our Academy offers a wide range of essential training courses tailored specifically for the hospitality industry, including:
· Bar Training Academy
· Barista Training
· HACCP Level 1 & 2
· Waiter & Silver Service Training
· Manual Handling
· Cardiac First Responder (CFR) Training
· Fire Safety & Warden Courses
These courses are led by a certified trainer and are designed to equip your staff with the practical skills and certifications needed to meet industry standards and deliver exceptional service. Whether you need on-site training or prefer to attend one of our office locations in Dublin, Galway, Cork, Kildare, or Belfast, we provide flexible solutions to fit your business needs.
Get in touch to ensure your team is well-prepared, confident, and compliant with industry regulations. For more information about our courses, please reach out to sharon k@excelrecruitment com or visit
www.futureprooftraining.ie!
Future Proof Training Academy Introduces Cardiac First Responder Course
The Future Proof Training Academy recently introduced a new Cardiac First Responder (CFR) course, led by a fully qualified trainer. This essential training equips participants with life-saving skills such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), bridging the critical gap between the onset of a medical emergency and the arrival of professional medical help.
Why is CFR Training Important in the Hospitality Industry?
In the fast-paced hospitality industry, ensuring guest safety is crucial The nature of hospitality means staff constantly interact with guests, often in high-stress and time-sensitive situations Cardiac emergencies can occur without warning, and the ability of staff to respond swiftly and effectively can make the difference between life and death CFR training empowers hospitality staff with the knowledge and skills to handle such emergencies confidently. This not only enhances the safety of guests but also builds a reputation for the establishment as a secure and responsible venue. Immediate and competent response to cardiac emergencies can also mitigate legal liabilities and comply with local safety regulations, further emphasising the importance of such training.
Why Choose Future Proof Training Academy?
Future Proof Training Academy, as a sister company of Excel Recruitment, deeply understands the unique needs of the hospitality industry. With over 20 years of experience in recruiting staff for this sector, the company understands the critical role that well-trained employees play in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment Many of the trainers and staff have extensive backgrounds in hospitality, bringing practical insights and real-life experience to the training programs This insider perspective ensures that the CFR course is tailored to the specific challenges and scenarios faced by hospitality workers
The
Comprehensive Training Experience
Legislation and Compliance: The course covers the latest regulations and standards, ensuring your establishment meets all legal requirements for emergency preparedness
Life-Saving Skills:
·CPR: Training includes thorough instruction and hands-on practice in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, essential for maintaining blood flow during cardiac arrest.
·AED: Participants learn to use Automated External Defibrillators effectively, with practical drills to build confidence and competence.
Recognising Medical
Emergencies:
Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest: This training helps staff understand the critical differences and appropriate responses.
Signs of a Stroke: Quick identification and response are vital, and this course provides the knowledge needed to act fast
Future Proof Training Academy Introduces Cardiac First Responder Course
The Future Proof Training Academy recently introduced a new Cardiac First Responder (CFR) course, led by a fully qualified trainer. This essential training equips participants with life-saving skills such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), bridging the critical gap between the onset of a medical emergency and the arrival of professional medical help. Why is CFR Training Important in the Hospitality Industry?
In the fast-paced hospitality industry, ensuring guest safety is crucial The nature of hospitality means staff constantly interact with guests, often in high-stress and time-sensitive situations Cardiac emergencies can occur without warning, and the ability of staff to respond swiftly and effectively can make the difference between life and death CFR training empowers hospitality staff with the knowledge and skills to handle such emergencies confidently This not only enhances the safety of guests but also builds a reputation for the establishment as a secure and responsible venue Immediate and competent response to cardiac emergencies can also mitigate legal liabilities and comply with local safety regulations, further emphasising the importance of such training Why Choose Future Proof Training Academy?
Future Proof Training Academy, as a sister company of Excel Recruitment, deeply understands the unique needs of the hospitality industry. With over 20 years of experience in recruiting staff for this sector, the company understands the critical role that well-trained employees play in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. Many of the trainers and staff have extensive backgrounds in hospitality, bringing practical insights and real-life experience to the training programs. This insider perspective ensures that the CFR course is tailored to the specific challenges and scenarios faced by hospitality workers.
The Comprehensive Training Experience Legislation and Compliance: The course covers the latest regulations and standards, ensuring your establishment meets all legal requirements for emergency preparedness
Life-Saving Skills:
CPR: Training includes thorough instruction and hands-on practice in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, essential for maintaining blood flow during cardiac arrest
·AED: Participants learn to use Automated External Defibrillators effectively, with practical drills to build confidence and competence
Recognising Medical Emergencies: Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest: This training helps staff understand the critical differences and appropriate responses.
Signs of a Stroke: Quick identification and response are vital, and this course provides the knowledge needed to act fast.
Phone First, Phone Fast Procedures:
·Phone First: Emphasising the importance of calling emergency services immediately.
Phone Fast: Training includes how to efficiently communicate essential information to responders Certification & Conclusion: Investing in CFR training with Future Proof Training Academy is a vital step toward ensuring guest safety and demonstrating a profound commitment to their well-being The Future Proof Training certification is recognised by the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) and is valid for two years, ensuring that skills and knowledge remain current For more information about this course, please reach out to sharon k@excelrecruitment com
Client success stories: How hotels are thriving with Journey’s technology
At Journey, we’re committed to empowering hotels to elevate their operations and guest experience through innovative technology and ecommerce services. Our Experience Management System (EMS), Ecommerce Platform, and Gifted voucher system are helping leading hotels streamline operations, increase direct bookings, and enhance profitability. But don’t just take our word for it—hear from one of our valued clients, Slieve Russell Hotel & Spa, on how they’ve experienced measurable growth and success through our platforms.
Slieve Russell Hotel & Spa: Winning more direct business through Spa Direct
Background:
Slieve Russell Hotel & Spa, a prestigious hotel in Ireland, partnered with Journey in 2021 after hearing about our success with other hotels. With a strong focus on enhancing their spa offering, they adopted our Experience Management System (EMS) for spa management and integrated our Ecommerce Platform and Gifted voucher system to streamline operations. Most recently, they enrolled in our industry-first Spa Direct digital marketing programme to drive more direct business.
Q&A Highlights:
Q: What made you decide to partner with Journey?
Slieve Russell: "We wanted a system that could integrate easily with our existing technology and help us win back direct business. Journey’s reputation for delivering results made them the clear choice.”
Q: What has been your experience with the Spa Direct programme?
Slieve Russell: "The Spa Direct programme has been transformative for us. Since joining, we’ve seen an incredible Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) across Google and Meta, with results as high as €32:1.”
Q: How has Journey’s platform enhanced guest experience?
Slieve Russell: "Guests now find it easier to book spa treatments and spa days in a single transaction, which has improved the overall guest experience. Journey’s systems have simplified the process, leading to higher engagement with our spa services."
Q: How has working with Journey impacted your revenue?
Slieve Russell: "Journey’s platform has increased our booking value, especially with the option to add extras like a bottle of prosecco or a mocktail at checkout. More customers are booking directly through our website and are engaging with our offers through sponsored ads in the Spa Direct programme."
Key Takeaways: Since partnering with Journey, Slieve Russell Hotel & Spa has seen impressive growth in direct bookings and guest engagement, driven by the Spa Direct programme and seamless integration of our Ecommerce and EMS platforms. Their ability to offer a streamlined booking process has not only improved the guest experience but also boosted revenue and profitability.
If you’re ready to simplify operations, increase direct bookings, and boost your revenue, partner with Journey today and discover how our all-in-one solutions can set your hotel up for long-term success. https://journey.travel
College Update
We welcomed 100 new students as part of our year 1 cohort. Class of 2024-2029. Class Patron Ronan Branigan, Alumni and Managing Director at the Savoy Hotel Limerick.
It is great to have a buzz around the campus again as we welcome our year 1 students to the college for their orientation.
We welcome students, new and returning, across all programmes, including our International Foundation Business Programme, Our Undergraduate Programmes, Our Postgraduate Programmes, our Seychellois programme and our IISMA study abroad programme. We also welcome our students partaking in PHD and Certificate programmes.
We have welcomed students this morning from Ireland, Europe, USA, Seychelles, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, China, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Guatemala.
Here at Shannon, we are proud to be a diverse and inclusive College, welcoming cultures and personalities from across the Globe who share similar passions and celebrate their differences.
We can't wait for the year to come!
Good luck to all of our students on campus and embarking on year 2 and final year placements.
Seychellois Students joining our year 4 cohort as part of the ADHM programme. These students will complete their degree with Shannon College of Hotel Management.
Indonesian Students joining our year 1 group for one semester as part of the IISMA awardee study abroad programme.
Masters Students joining us from across the globe to complete their Postgraduate degree at Shannon College.
International Business Foundation programme students. We welcoed students from Guatemala, Indoneisa and China.
Kate Ryan, a Year 4 student at Shannon College of Hotel Management, brought Ireland international recognition at the WorldSkills 2024 competition in Lyon, France. Representing her country in Restaurant Service, Kate showcased exceptional skills in a variety of service areas, including Casual Dining, Bar, Barista, Banquet Service, and Fine Dining. Her dedication to excellence was evident as she competed against 36 countries, embodying the renowned Irish hospitality, Céad Míle Fáilte.
Trained by Andrew Langford, a Lecturer at Shannon College and Chief Expert for Restaurant Service WorldSkills Lyon 2024, Kate underwent rigorous preparation over the summer. She was supported by industry partners including Ashford Castle, The Clermont Blackrock, The Kings Head, The Old Barracks Coffee Roastery, and Mary Coppinger Uniforms.
Kate's outstanding performance culminated in a WorldSkills Medallion for Excellence, a prestigious award that underscores her exceptional skills and dedication.
Reflecting on her experience, Kate shared, "Competing at WorldSkills was an incredible journey. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding. I am deeply grateful for the support of my college, trainers, and industry partners."
We have plenty of upcoming events between on campus, virtual, national roadshows and a hospitality skills development course, there is so much to choose from. Find out more and register for our events here. Our first open event is 10th October 2024 at 5:30pm on the Shannon Campus. https://www.universityofgalway.ie/shannoncollege/events/
Start Here Campaign ! We were thrilled to welcome Rebecca Connolly on campus last week. Rebecca is the S*xual Violence and Harassment Prevention and Response Programme Coordinator in the University. She has partnered with the Colleges to promote the 'Start Here' campaign, raising awareness around Active Consent amongst University Staff and Students.
We are proud to have so many of our students acting as champions for the campaign in promoting and creating a positive and save environment for everyone on our campus.
Mentors Matter
How mentoring supports training
When you identify that you have a developmental need, the knee-jerk reaction is often to look for a relevant training course. But is a training course the panacea of supporting your developmental requirements?
A training course imparts information to the learner, opening your eyes to new knowledge and teaching you the skills to use that new knowledge. It allows you to discuss in a safe learning environment the benefits and challenges of implementing those new skills. Good training courses provide opportunities for you to practise the new skills, undertake role-play scenarios, discuss how you feel about implementing the new skills and receive feedback from fellow-learners. You leave the training motivated, with all the best intentions of using your new skills and knowledge within the workplace. Only to regress to your old ways of doing things.
In a recent McKinsey survey only 25% of respondents believed that training measurably improved performance. Whilst a report by 24x7 Learning: Workplace Learning found that only 12% of employees actually use the training they receive at work.
With such damning statistics is it worth going on a training course? Of course it is. Training courses are an incredibly powerful way to receive new information. The problem comes when you step out of the training course and go back to your reality. So the training course is only as good as the mechanisms put in place to support you back in the workplace.
German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus pioneered experimental studies of memory in the late 19th Century, culminating with his discovery of The Forgetting Curve. He found that if new information isn’t applied, we’ll forget about 75% of it after just six days. Therefore it is imperative that you use your new found knowledge and skills immediately.
In addition, research and consultancy business Gartner found that “Participants are 40% more likely to achieve their goals if they write them down. This increases to 70% if the goals are shared with someone to keep them accountable, such as a mentor ” So what is the role of the mentor in this developmental process:
Studies show that people apply what they learn more effectively when they have a mentor, somebody who has walked their path previously and who is committed to helping them be successful.
Having a mentor also provides the learner/mentee with the courage to implement what they have learned.
Mentoring provides an opportunity for the mentee to reflect on what is working and what isn’t and why. The mentor is able to spot gaps in the mentee’s information and can advise them on how they could improve their implementation of their new skills.
A mentor guides the mentee helping them to implement their new knowledge and skills into their specific work context, they enable the mentee to embed their learning, to practice and receive feedback on their skills and behaviours.
A mentor can answer questions that may not have been answered during the training course, and help guide the mentee through various situations while understanding the specific obstacles they’re likely to face.
A mentor provides on-going support, advice and guidance to enhance the long-term development of the mentee.
A mentor provides accountability, someone with whom the mentee needs to check-in, someone who keeps the mentee focused.
The mentor is critical to you locking-in and practising your new knowledge and skills, acting as a sounding board and providing you with constructive feedback to support your continual professional development. So next time you are considering attending a training course to develop new skills or learn new information, make sure you have a mentor in place for once you have completed the course
