Understanding the Value of a Pound

A large global investment firm needed its graduate population to develop greater commercial awareness. In recruiting top talent, they realized that their graduates were over-confident and unrealistic about the real world. In a time of economic downturn, the bank needed its staff to manage the firm's reputation responsibly.

Client problem

A large global investment firm needed its graduate population to develop greater commercial awareness. In recruiting top talent, they realized that their graduates were over-confident and unrealistic about the real world. In a time of economic downturn, the bank needed its staff to manage the firm’s reputation responsibly.

Our involvement

Elton Mellor was already delivering a modular graduate development programme: fast-paced, high-adrenaline, business-led learning experiences during their first two years at the bank.  We devised a powerful, innovative event called Market Trader, where competitive teams were given a budget to buy wholesale and sell for profit at Portobello Road market.  The 24-hour event was made memorable by unexpected challenges and a final denouement where senior managers grilled each team about strategy, finance, team work and leadership. 

What we delivered

Three Elton Mellor trainers accompanied the teams throughout the event, coaching, questioning, prompting and videoing.  When teams needed inspiration, we offered creative ideas and provocative questions. When communication broke down, we gave support and feedback. When teams were working well, we stood back and observed.

Results

In Market Trader, no-one could be a passenger, because the success of the whole team was generated though the actions of many.  Individual egos were easily noticed, and over-dominant players were skillfully managed.  Arrogance and casual confidence was overruled by a strong sense of public responsibility and with the absolute value of a pound.

Through the experience, we addressed the issues of reasonable risk, selling in a difficult market, effective business communication and essential strategic planning.  Many delegates commented on the power and authenticity of the experience – and Market Trader, with its powerful messages, remains deeply rooted in their memory. Many senior managers commented on the significance of the event, with its fun exterior and profound inner core.

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