In this program corporate managers and leaders mentor long-term unemployed job seekers over a period of 15 (or 18) weeks. The unemployed job seekers are sourced through the Job Network and trained before committing to the mentoring. Corporate mentors usually volunteer to participate and receive 2 days foundation training before the mentoring. Mentors are coached as a group 1 hour per week and individually as needed. This ensures the process stays on track and mentors don't try to tackle issues outside the program scope.

The Creating Competent Leaders program creates a safe - yet challenging - environment outside the workplace where employees acting as mentors can practice new leadership skills, develop more flexible communication skills and become more aware of themselves and others in the process. The program is goal driven (protégé achieves employment) and facilitated throughout. In previous programs the average success rate for protégés gaining employment has averaged 60%.

Whilst the outcomes for the protégés are our priority, we have found in over 30 previous programs that employees gain immensely in their leadership and communication skills. Being able to practice ‘Off Broadway’ in combination with consistent, ongoing feedback and group and individual coaching over an extended time period produces outcomes way beyond what can be achieved in 2-3 day leadership training courses. At the same time, being a mentor to people with highly disadvantaged backgrounds is an immensely stimulating and satisfying experience.

From a company perspective, engaging staff in a community mentoring program has a range of benefits in beyond staff development. It can enhance diversity, inclusiveness and corporate reputation and can contribute to cultural change.