Building Confidence
"Despite my worries, Corndel have been incredibly supportive, assuring me that they'll make it work for me."
In her reflections on the programme, Michaela shares how the experience has significantly boosted her confidence.
“I think it has built my confidence up, to be honest. I don't have any concerns or inhibitions now when someone asks me for information that requires data analysis. I'm very confident in providing my answer.
If you had asked me when I first joined the People team to confidently tell you what I had worked out from the data, I would have been very hesitant because I wasn't sure. But now, I think, "Well, I know I've manipulated the data correctly. Unless the data is wrong, my answer is correct."
So, I'm very confident in giving that information, and I'm very comfortable discussing it. I'm happy to pass on my knowledge, and I think it has probably given me a bit more confidence." Michaela was also apprehensive about starting the programme because of some health issues, specifically related to her short-term memory. She initially wondered if her condition might hinder her ability to succeed in the programme. However, Corndel provided the support and accommodations she needed to overcome her worries:
"I have a health condition that affects my short-term memory, but my long-term memory is fine. I had concerns about my ability to learn and retain information, especially for the endpoint assessment.
However, I was open about my challenges with my PDE and other team members in Corndel. They arranged for a learning assessment, which suggested I would be okay with some adjustments like longer study periods or breaks during assessments. Despite my worries, they have been incredibly supportive, assuring me that they'll make it work for me."
"I don't have any concerns or inhibitions now when someone asks me for information that requires data analysis..."
One of the most striking aspects of Michaela's apprenticeship journey was how it altered her perception of learning. She discovered that apprenticeships, even within an established career, are an opportunity to acquire new skills and knowledge. While Michaela initially believed that apprenticeships were primarily designed for younger people at the beginning of their careers, she soon realised they were equally valuable for those in mid-career or even later.
"Learning as an adult, something that you've chosen to do, is an incredibly fulfilling thing..."
A pathway to lifelong learning
“Learning as an adult, something that you've chosen to do, is an incredibly fulfilling thing. So I'd say don't worry about the time it takes because you'll find the time if you're enjoying it, and you will because it's so accessible and nicely done in really suitable chunks."
In addition to professional development, Michaela recognised that her apprenticeship could impact her career progression. The knowledge and skills she gained made her a valuable asset to Hiscox, potentially opening doors to new roles within the company and giving her the opportunity to work with senior stakeholders:
“To cut a long story short, I found myself in discussions with our CFO regarding costs and budgets. Fast forward, and now I have monthly meetings with him, where I provide updates through an Excel dashboard comparing costs to budgets. I work alongside the finance business partner and the CFO, and it's just the three of us in that monthly meeting.
Despite my relatively junior role, I find myself sitting in a room with one of the company's most influential figures, confidently presenting my findings. With each month, my nervousness has diminished, and this exposure to senior stakeholders is an incredible advantage that stems directly from this course.”
Although she has no plans to leave Hiscox, her increased confidence and expertise have made her more attractive to potential employers, providing her with a sense of job security and enhanced career opportunities.
