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ONE of the smallest Guernsey recipients of Investor in People accreditation has said it brings tangible benefits and played a significant part in the success of the company.

The GTA University Centre has recently launched a drive to encourage more SMEs to work towards Investors in People accreditation.

‘Our experience is that smaller companies, in particular start-ups, understandably have their attention focused on the day to day operation of the business and the need to succeed. That means that matters such as HR are often neglected and that can invariably lead to issues,’ said GTA HR manager Julie Hamon.

‘Realising the potential of employees is key to the success of any business and IIP brings people management into focus.’

Montagu Evans became the first company from the Channel Islands’ property industry to gain accreditation in 2012.

‘We are a small firm but one that had undergone some huge changes including a new managing director, an acquisition, a relocation and new additions to the team. We knew that there were things about the way we operated that could be improved and although it was initially a daunting process as our small team were already very busy, it quickly became obvious that the benefits were worth the investment of time,’ said office manager Carrie Birch who oversaw the process.

Like many small and start-up companies, Montagu Evans didn’t have a dedicated HR facility and so many of the changes identified by IIP centered around this area. As a result of going through IIP, with the support of the GTA, Montagu Evans put together a formal business plan which was shared with staff so they understood the role they played and there was a real focus on appraisals.

‘We have noticed really tangible benefits to our staff and in turn Montagu Evans. The company continues to grow and because of the processes we put in place through IIP, it has the right approach to ensure future success,’ said Mrs Birch.

Mrs Hamon said that nurturing the people that sit at the heart of a business is key to success.

‘There is no doubt that the net worth of the Guernsey workforce can be increased significantly by working smarter and making the most of the people that drive any business forward,’ Mrs Hamon.

‘That’s the aim of IIP. It helps transform an organisation’s performance by targeting priorities and outlining goals which in turn create a company that is more successful and ultimately more profitable.’

The GTA is organising a breakfast briefing for companies wanting to find out more about the scheme and it will be followed by a lunchtime event for companies who want to improve on their status.

The breakfast briefing takes place at the GTA University Centre, St Peter Port House, between 8.30am and 10am on 11 February and is aimed at businesses and organisations new to Investors in People and looking to find out more. Speakers Roger Chapman from idg and Elaine Painter from KPMG will demonstrate how IIP can help an organisation improve productivity, recognise improvement opportunities and increase motivation levels.

The lunchtime briefing from noon to 1.30pm is for small to medium sized businesses that have already achieved IIP status but want to go on to the next level. Roger and Elaine will look at how organisations can go beyond the standard with ‘Choices’, taking a tailored approach to business improvement from the bronze, silver and gold standards.

The briefings are free of charge and include light refreshments. For more information contact Kate Sole on 01481 224570 or email her at [email protected]