Striking the best possible balance between a focus on results and a focus on staff – this has been the guiding principle of this long-established, family-run retail business since its foundation. Maximum customer satisfaction can only be achieved if staff act in the best interests of the customer and, convinced of the merits of their employer and the range of goods and services on offer, are prepared to find the best possible solution for the customer. The company has remained true to this philosophy to this day.
An important step in retaining committed staff lies in the promotion and development of both current and future managers. The figure below illustrates the structure of the management development programme.
The starting point for the development programme is a two-day Competency Assessment Centre. The aim of this process is to provide a comprehensive and independent assessment of the existing competencies of the respective managers. The subsequent feedback session serves as the starting point for planning and defining the subsequent development programme. This may take the form of a personalised development plan or involve participation in a one-and-a-half-year company-specific management programme. To this end, a specific seminar package has been put together in collaboration with the Saarbrücken Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), tailored to our client’s specific needs. Integrating the course into the internal management development programme enhances the programme’s value and recognition.
The content of the modules ranges from consolidating basic social and communication skills, through expanding specialist knowledge of employment law and business administration, to teaching relevant tools and methods of staff management. In addition to independent study of the literature, online-based training courses and attendance at face-to-face sessions have proven effective in imparting these skills.
To ensure long-term success, participants are supported throughout the programme by their respective line managers, who act as learning mentors. In addition, managers are able to take part in an internal mentoring programme. The leadership development programme is rounded off by the successful completion of the final examination set by the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK).
To date, around 50 managers and future leaders have taken part in the qualification programme. As well as developing their personal, social and methodological skills, previous participants have benefited from personal exchanges with one another and the strengthening of the internal network.
