Mentorship program at Verdo aims to attract qualified labour
A generational change is underway in Verdo, aiming to replace the experienced workforce with new members. Thus, a mentoring program has been established to ensure that knowledge and experience are passed on to the next generation of Verdo employees.
At Verdo, there is a tradition of knowledge sharing both within and across departments, and the mentoring program aims to create the best conditions for both learning and sparring. The sales managers, John Myrup and Mathias Lykkemarks’ are part of the program and have worked closely together since Mathias' employment almost a year and a half ago. Mathias was a newly qualified machinist when he started at Verdo, while John Myrup has over 25 years of experience in the industry.
It has been a great way to start in a new place. I came straight from school, so it has been a valuable experience to be mentored by John – his ability to guide me and learn from him has been incredibly rewarding," says Mathias Lykkemark.
John Myrup has also expressed satisfaction with the process and their collaboration.
"It has simply been a pleasure to mentor Mathias. He is a skilled salesman with a good understanding of the technical aspects of our work. Additionally, he is curious and asks insightful questions, which benefits both of us," says John Myrup.
Mentoring program with social and professional return
John Myrup and Mathias Lykkemark have spent numerous hours working together at Verdo, leading to professional and personal benefits.
"I believe that we help each other develop. John has extensive experience and a deep understanding of the work and the industry, while I bring fresh knowledge. I'm quite curious as well. I think that's a good combination. And it's equally an advantage that we get along well," says Mathias Lykkemark with a smile.
John agrees and values the qualifications they share and learn from each other. He appreciates the collaboration while admitting that training a new employee takes time.
"It's certainly not just Mathias who's benefitting from this program- quite the contrary. While introducing a new colleague to the work can be extensive, it has been incredible and rewarding for me as well. To see that all the knowledge, experience, and expertise I've accumulated can now be passed on to someone else is quite meaningful," says John Myrup.
Lack of labor in the industry
Verdo, like the rest of the industry, is currently facing a labor shortage. It means that recruiting qualified professionals is high on the agenda. The mentorship program aims to attract talented individuals from outside who wish to learn and grow through close collaboration with colleagues.
John Myrup and Mathias Lykkemark hope their collaboration will be just one of many examples.
John explains, "There are numerous talented individuals at Verdo with unique knowledge who contribute to our company. This knowledge mustn't be lost when employees retire. Therefore, despite our ongoing efforts, expanding the mentorship program would be fantastic. It ensures the maintenance of our high level of professionalism and the strong social community established at Verdo while making the company an attractive destination for new talent."