Case Studies

1. Line Manager Development at Dorset Cereals

We invited Training for Results to help us improve twenty eight first line managers’ communication, in order to get them to think outside their own silo and to be more aware of their actions on the wider business.

An example of the problem was ‘Planning’ would suddenly drop an order on ‘Stock Control’, because the customer had demanded it. The impact of this was frustration, teams not fulfilling their potential, and everyone continually fire-fighting.

We agreed a two day cross functional training programme in groups of ten. This delivered greater self awareness of the impact of their behaviours, more understanding of each other’s problems, sharing of frustrations, and better problem solving as a team. They had fun and are ready for more learning.

Tangible results have been the promotion of staff, people taking responsibility for their actions and being less confrontational; a better working culture and higher expectations of themselves and each other. One person, in particular, changed dramatically, which has had real benefits in his work and home life. They are now an engaged team. Work is no longer just a means to pay the mortgage.

This was demonstrated recently when I walked on the factory floor and staff told me they had just made a labelling mistake. They apologised, but had already taken ownership and sorted it out themselves. They showed initiative and responsibility, and did not want to let each other down. This would not have happened a year ago.

What I have learnt in leading this development, despite my initial heavy scepticism, is how easy it was to start and how quickly it snowballed to get results. It has taken on a life of its own. Getting some quick wins was vital. On-going reviews every six weeks in 1-2-1 meetings reminds them of their obligation to the investment we have all made. I am very keen for the programme to continue.

Ken and Rosie were very helpful, non prescriptive, and very inclusive of us in their design of the workshops. Even during delivery, they rolled with the punches and adapted to specific important issues that emerged. I cannot think of anything that they could improve.

Vickie Best, Operational Director, Dorset Cereals

2. Coaching for Logistics Co-Ordinator

I came to coaching because I felt I couldn’t see the wood for the trees, and that I was alone in trying to sort out every task or problem that came my way. I knew that I had a problem and to survive I needed to do something about it.

Realising that a problem exists makes you want to look for a solution. But identifying what the real problem is or understanding the underlining issues would not have been possible for me if it wasn’t for Rosie Barfoot.  For someone that I had never met before, Rosie made me feel very much at ease. However Rosie was very professional and I admired how she was able to stay focused. While we delved deep into understanding the underlying issues, she was always able to bring me back to the problem at hand.

The key issues for me were working long hours and not delegating. Rosie challenged my thought process, making me aware that there is another way, presenting me with a way of being able to change my lifetime habits; and reassuring me that this would take time. She helped me realise I would have to make a conscious effort to get the results I am seeking.

What I have realised more than anything else is the effect my work ethic is having on my personal life. I am aiming to prioritise my workload and make better use of my time on a daily basis. When communicating to others, I am now aware that how I communicate is as equally as important as what I communicate. Appreciating that others want to feel as needed and as important to the company as I do, I am making a conscious effort of thinking before I speak. I recognise that having a life outside work makes me a better person and my aim is to leave work at a set time.

It is up to me to change. Rosie has given me the tools, which I just need to work at.

EJ. South Wales