Since recently completing a Tuakana/Teina mentoring programme and a Leadership Confidence course, Ranjeeta’s self-confidence has skyrocketed. Now she has turned her weaknesses into strengths and is excited about putting her newfound skills and capabilities into action in the workplace.

“The Education Unlimited training has definitely made me more confident in doing my job, and communicating with my peers and management,” says Ranjeeta, who has been working in the Fulfillment Department at The Warehouse for ten years, including four years as a temp and six as a full-time employee. 

“I would absolutely recommend this upskilling to others. It has helped me a lot and the change in me has been noticed by my colleagues and managers.”

Ranjeeta kick-started her upskilling with the two-session Tuakana/Teina mentoring programme, which focuses on whakawhanaungatanga (making and maintaining relationships), the GROW model (a simple method for goal setting and problem solving), and ‘Above the line, below the line’, a model designed to help teams become more open, positive, accountable and effective.

“My manager selected me for this programme so that I could be a mentor for some of the younger employees. Initially I was nervous, but through the training I developed the confidence I needed to take on the mentorship responsibility. I still use ‘Above the line, below the line’ to check myself every morning. It really helps with my perspective.”

From there, Ranjeeta and three of her colleagues pathwayed into Education Unlimited’s eight week Leadership Confidence course, which does a deep dive into everything from active listening and effective communication to SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) and SWOT analysis. SWOT is a decision making process that identifies Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

“The SWOT analysis was particularly powerful. It showed that one of my weaknesses was confidence to speak in front of an audience, but now that has become a strength!”

The Warehouse is deeply passionate about investing in its people, and Ranjeeta is one of numerous employees who are reaping the benefits of the retail giant’s ongoing partnership with Education Unlimited. In recent years the Education Unlimited team has delivered programmes including Life Online, Money Confidence, Shine Bright 5S and Communication and Critical Thinking to The Warehouse staff, as well as providing one-on-one ESOL support. And with plans for further upskilling currently under discussion, staff can look forward to continuing to grow their skills and capabilities in 2025.

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