Friday Footnote #90

Each week we share loads of content amongst Team ION and with our network. Content that inspires us, which we find helpful, or just makes us smile. We thought we would start sharing these insights every Friday. Welcome to Friday Footnote.

Make an impact in 60 seconds - 'The art of pitching' virtual event

We are delighted to be joined at our next #IONOpenDoors learning event by Julia Perry, Local Enterprise Manager at NatWest, who will be leading a session on how to make an impact with your 60 second pitch. The session takes place next Thursday, 5th May at 11am. 

What does your 60 second pitch say about you? Your pitch needs to do more than just explain what your business does - is it memorable, does it show your personality, do you have a clear call to action?

As we all start to get back out to physical networking and events, NOW is the time to give your pitch a makeover and make some real impact with new connections.

During this session we will explore the key principles of a great 60 second pitch, you will take away some top tips, have some fun, and make lasting changes to how you introduce yourself and your business.

This free session is open to all, and you can sign up to join us on our events pages. 

NPT Innovation Exchange

The NPT Innovation Exchange aims to bring together large and small businesses in a spirit of collaboration and partnership, with the goal of strengthening local companies, maximising economic opportunities and growing a sustainable innovation sector in NPT. Through participation in conversations and events over a few months, members will increase awareness of what’s going on and develop more local connections and increase growth ambitions for the long-term.

As part of the exchange, a partnership between Neath Port Talbot Business and 4theregion, there are a number of events being ran, one of which will focus on 'Training and Skills support'. During this session, which takes place on Wednesday 4th May at 1pm in Neath, delegates will have the opportunity to discuss future skills, nurturing talent, and investment in skills within local businesses. As part of the session, we are delighted to be running a taster session for those in attendance, as well as provide an opportunity to find out more about our upcoming leadership programmes. If you are based in Neath Port Talbot, and want to join the conversation, you can find out more here.  

Thank you Andrew

This week we unfortuantely say goodbye to Andrew Veevers, a member of our delivery team in Swansea. Thank you for everything you have done for us and our delegates during your time at ION, and best of luck for the future.  

What's caught our eye this week?

• Manage your energy, not your time (Harvard Business Review)
• Celebrities join North Wales leadership graduates for virtual celebration (North Wales Chronicle)
• Want to quit your job? 3 things to consider now to prevent future regrets (TED) 
• 8 signs to immediately recognize someone with a gift for leadership (Inc)

Interested in higher and degree apprenticeships? 

Are you interested in finding out more about Higher and Degree Apprenticeships programmes in Computer Science, Management and Engineering and how these opportunities at Swansea University can benefit your business?

Our friends at the Institute of Coding in Wales, and Technocamps, are running an employers information event on Monday 9th May between 12.30 - 2pm on the Swansea University Singleton Campus. Find out more, and book to attend, here. 

Our first-ever PAN Wales leadership programme 

We were delighted to anounce recently that later this year we will be running our first-ever PAN Wales leadership programme. Our programmes have traditionally been run separately by our teams in Bangor and Swansea. However, for the first time in our 11-year history we are joining forces to unite businesses across Wales. The aim of the programme is to enable delegates to build networks with other fast-growth Welsh brands, and develop the skills and knowledge required to meet organisational goals and flourish in a post-pandemic marketplace. 

Led by Nathan from our Swansea team, and Jacky from our Bangor team, the ILM Level 5 Leading Growth programme starts in June 2022. You can find out more about the programme here and if you are interested in having a chat about participating in the programme, please contact Kaye Harris-John on 07808 847332 or Nicola Sturrs on 01248 383024.

Starting your leadership journey?

Our ILM Level 3 New Leaders programme is designed to develop and enhance the leadership and management skills of those in the early stages of developing their leadership skills. Delegates will be encouraged to understand their own approach to leadership, and then consider their team roles and tasks required to create a strong business framework for the growth and sustainability of their organisation. Our next programme starts in May 2022, and you can find out more about the programme, including those all important dates, here.

Missed previous #FridayFootnotes?