Yours To Shape 2022
CAREER STORIES
Our graduate development programme “Yours to Shape” provides the opportunity to meet and work with other graduates from a diverse range of backgrounds and locations. You will take part in workshops, masterclasses, group projects, and learn from the group’s senior leaders across the globe. It is a fantastic opportunity for people who have just graduated to expand both their personal and professional skills.
In 2022, 3 Joris Ide employees participated in workshops, master classes and group projects for a full year: Thomas Decadt - Internal Sales for UK and Ireland, Laurence Stalmans - Divisional Planet Passionate Leader and Nathan Demeyer - Internal Commercial.
How did you experience the program?
Laurence: I am really extremely happy that I got to participate. I learnt a lot thanks to the different workshops we followed, both personally and professionally. During such a programme, you really encounter yourself and get to know yourself better.
Thomas: And you also learn to work better with others. During the programme, we got to know lots of different people with various backgrounds, cultures and business profiles. You learn from the conversations you have with them, because everyone has a different vision, a different approach. It is interesting to see those differences, but equally interesting to discover where it all comes together.
Which workshops did you find most interesting?
Nathan: I found the very first workshop the most interesting. We were given our Insights Discovery Profile that shows what colour dynamics we have and what our strengths and weaknesses are. The profile gives you a huge amount of information about yourself and how you interact with your environment. But also gives insights in how your environment interacts best with yourself.
Laurence: It also provides insights into how to turn certain weaknesses into strengths. The Insights Discovery Profile has taught me a lot about myself and given me more self-confidence.
Thomas: Personally, I learnt the most from the workshops that were done face to face. You can better understand what is being applied and you are more in the moment. Via video call, it is a bit more difficult to stay focused. During those live workshops I learned a lot about getting and giving feedback, having difficult conversations and presenting.
Why is this programme a must to follow?
All: Networking. 100%.
Laurence: You will get to know colleagues from all over the world who are about the same age as yourself, are at the beginning of their careers and have a similar mindset and spirit.
Nathan: Of course, a lot of work is involved, but you get a lot in return: new friends, a good atmosphere, trips abroad and many great moments. It is also nice that apart from your day job, you have something else to focus on.
What has stuck with you the most?
Thomas: The workshops in Bruges. That's when we all came together for the first time and the atmosphere was still super loose. That really kickstarted us as a group.
Nathan: I also think it's important to remember to keep doing your own thing. You learn from different people in senior profiles who already have a lot of experience. Take their tips, but process them in your own way without losing yourself and your opinions.