Include a specific group of people – Apex Group has only selected high performing women to take part in the inaugural program to encourage the right behaviours and right candidates to drive the program goals forward. Line managers of the program members were also consulted before invites were extended to members. The Program is also varied – keynote speeches are delivered from a range of women inside and outside of the industry to provide a diverse perspective. Contributions are monitored – understanding who is attending sessions and if they are contributing will help to adjust the program for next year whilst helping us to understand if the program is having a positive impact on all members.

Employee turnover cannot be avoided; some program members have left the business and it’s important to understand why that is i.e. if this is down to lack of opportunities for progression etc. Don’t assume – not all members are confident with speaking up so it may take more effort to bring them into the spotlight. It’s key not to give up on them just because they are quiet. It’s also vital to manage expectations of program members; simply because they are on the program does not mean they will be promoted; it’s up to them to also put the work in.