Volunteer Hotseat
journey. As part of this, we are planning to host more upgrading clinics to help members think about, and plan, for moving to other grades of professional membership. Advice for early career professionals Start building your network early. Be curious and ask people about their careers, even if you have a generalist or specialist route in mind. Ask people about their work too – you may find that in practice there are other things that you are keen to explore. If you have the opportunity to have a mentor, take the chance! Having someone that will listen and support you, but is removed from your immediate circle, is really valuable. Speaking at the CIPD Student Conference I’m looking forward to speaking about the impact our profession can have on wellbeing in the workplace at the CIPD Student Conference. Hearing from a range of practitioners whilst you are studying really enhances your perspectives. When it comes to wellbeing, taking time to know and understand what tops up your personal wellbeing and resilience levels is really important, along with knowing what really drains you. You can’t pour from an empty cup so to truly create better workplaces and working lives we need to be personally in the best possible place.
Chair of the CIPD North East Branch
The CIPD North East Branch is also well known for our annual HR&D Awards which recognise and celebrate the exemplary people practices and inspiring people professionals across the North East. The awards – in their 15th year – attract around 450 guests each year and will take place as an in-person event for the first time in two years, on 30 June. I’m also proud of our work with our L&D community – we’ve really shone a light on this area of specialism through delivering tailored knowledge events and networking sessions for L&D practitioners. Supporting members at all levels Students have had a tough time over the last couple of years, so we have extended our support for them this year. Along with panel events – which allow students to ask professionals from both generalist and specialist roles questions - we will run a follow- up session after the CIPD Student Conference on Saturday 2 April. This will focus on translating insight in to a chosen research area. We’ve seen CIPD membership increase consistently in the North East over the last five years and are committed to supporting our members on that
Dr Elouise Leonard-Cross FCIPD is an Occupational Psychologist and Chair of the CIPD North East Branch which deliver a wide variety of services and events to a thriving community of over 2,000 people professionals in the North East.
In this Volunteer Hotseat, Elouise tells us more about the achievements of the North East Branch and how it has extended its support for students this year.
Dr Elouise Leonard-Cross FCIPD
Empowering & connecting members We were one of the first CIPD Branches to establish a mentoring programme for members, delivered by members. It has proved hugely successful, with members able to support and learn from one another, and build their networks and careers, so it’s a legacy I’m very proud of.
Find out more about the CIPD North East Branch and how to get involved here .
REGIONAL INSIGHTS
Spring 2022
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