Springboard contributes to Royal Mail’s continuing success

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to set out the results – so far – of using the Springboard women’s development programme within Royal Mail. Design/methodology/approach – This paper comprises a case study on the application of the Springboard women’s development programme throughout Royal Mail. It covers gender, diversity and inclusion issues within the company. Findings – The Springboard programme helps women be more realistic in their self-assessment; have more self-confidence; take more initiative; set and achieve clearer goals; have increased personal motivation; accept more responsibility for their own development; have a more mature and positive attitude; communicate more assertively and effectively; add more value to their work; improve customer relations; present a positive image, and improve their assertiveness skills. Research limitations/implications – It is possible to achieve ambitious objectives in terms of gender, diversity and inclusiveness at work through the use of a development programme such as Springboard. Practical/implications – With help from programmes such as Springboard, women can become more open, and receptive, to change; raise their confidence and self-esteem levels; take on more responsibility; make more effective use of resources, and improve their problem-solving abilities. The programme is also proving able to help them compete more effectively for promotion at work; take on and be successful in management roles. This helps them achieve their career goals, raise their aspirations and generally develop their careers. Social/implications – Women are being helped to compete effectively with men in the workplace as well as developing an understanding of how to be successful in their personal lives (in terms of sorting out difficult relationships, improving fitness and gaining a better study/life balance). Originality/value – The Springboard women’s development programme is helping to change the working culture built up over some 400 years at Royal Mail.