At Vantis, we understand that to provide an excellent service to our clients we must have exceptional team members, and we are therefore fully committed to continually adding to their skills and knowledge. As part of this we are particularly proud of our ‘Steps 2 Success’ programmes which are dedicated to ensuring that we provide the structured development needed for those who wish to progress in their careers at Vantis. The programmes are modular to allow for maximum flexibility and are designed to provide support for the development of relevant skill sets and competencies in key areas. They include ongoing, on the job learning by the team member, with support and coaching from the line manager and other designated people.
There are four steps in the ‘Steps 2 Success’ suite of programmes - Step 1 (for first line supervisors), Step 2 (for managers), Step 3 (for those earmarked for partnership/directorship within 1 – 3 years) and Step 4 (for partners/directors). The programmes have differing durations, and the modules within each programme take place once a month.
The modules are arranged across four competency streams (growth delivery, people delivery, task delivery and client delivery). These streams (together with a stream relating to technical delivery covered by technical qualifications and a CPD programme) aim to develop those competencies that Vantis considers critical for success.
Programme delegates are nominated by their managers and supported by the head of the business unit or location. Each delegate signs up to a learning contract, and agrees to participate fully in the modules and to undertake pre and post-course work; the business unit or location head agrees to support the delegate, and the line manager agrees to coach the delegate. A coaching programme is available for line managers with little or no formal coaching skills. The programmes have an assessment element so that post course work is marked and written feedback given to the delegate, with a copy to the line manager.
The modules are delivered as intensive and challenging workshops. Simulations, case studies, role plays, and active participation with real clients provides a stimulating learning experience which delegates find memorable, and which have practical application. Following each module, delegates are encouraged to develop an action plan using a personal development planning tool and to implement their learning with the support and coaching of their line manager.
The value of ‘Steps 2 Success’ is realised by team members and managers alike. Team members are motivated by their development and have a good understanding of career opportunities at Vantis and how to progress, and managers are able to see real benefits to the business.
Take a look at comments from delegates who took part in recent programmes:
“The programme has given me new skills, increased my awareness of my responsibilities of my position, given me confidence and taught me more about Vantis”
“I feel that I learnt a lot from the modules and hopefully am putting what I learnt into practice. The first module, Managing People, was the most relevant to what I do, with good practical advice on management. I would recommend the module very highly”
“It has helped me to focus on my weak areas and also given me the skills to improve these. I feel much more part of a Vantis "team" after meeting people and hearing more about Vantis as a whole”
“The programme has helped me in taking a broader view of what is required from all staff at Vantis, not just me. It is not just about me and completing my job satisfactorily, it is about the business as a whole and trying to develop client relationships, other business relationships and added value ”
At Vantis, we have a Learning and Development team within HR that is dedicated to implementing these programmes to enhance both our team members’ skills, and ultimately our delivery to our clients.
The ACCA has recently published a case study on our Steps 2 Success Programmes as a showcase for good practice. The case study can be viewed here.