Case study: Action Learning Sets, Kim Furnish
I joined the Action Learning Set because I found the sessions useful during my School of Social Entrepreneurs course. At that time my focus was on starting my business, consequently the topics were focussed on issues such as taking on a board of directors, creating a logo, and managing social media accounts. My business has been established for seven years, and so my focus now is more on sustainability and growth. I am pleased with how the business has evolved, and especially proud of the flexibility and adaptability that we showed through the disruption of Covid-19. I’ve noticed that it has been quite difficult to identify issues to bring to the group.
I think that there are various reasons for this…
- I am resourceful, my business is centred around self-care, and I practice what I preach. Good self-care means that I have the capacity to manage most challenges. If I need help, I will ask my board of directors or I will ask for help from other professionals.
- I am happy with the way the business is functioning. I have a good work – life balance and I enjoy my work.
- I consistently work on my business, sometimes alone, sometimes with peer support. I have monthly coaching sessions for myself and for my business.
Having noted the absence of any obvious problems, and wanting to be included in the group, I have searched for issues to bring.
I realise that the value of action learning sets for me has been accountability, facing my fears and ‘blue sky thinking’. I have been able to address some of the ideas that have been circulating in my mind, that I have been afraid to get hold of and move forward with. These are the things that I tell myself I will do ‘one day’. Being a member of the action learning set means that I have brought these issues into the light. I have noticed that sometimes in the sessions I have squirmed in my seat when answering a question on my issue. I think this is brilliant because it is an indicator that my uncertainty and vulnerability has been exposed, and it is an opportunity for growth.
As a result of the action learning sets, I have taken the following actions.
- Made contacts with potential referrers
- Challenged my resistance to networking, attended networking groups, joined a local networking group
- Have been featured as ‘business of the week’ in the local newspaper
- Promoted our podcast more on social media, gained more testimonials, and will host a live recording session.
- Approached possible sponsors for the podcast
- Created and shared a video newsletter
“I am enjoying the sessions”
The group facilitator has ensured that the group is a safe space for exploration and experimentation, and the other members of the group are open and supportive. I have been reminded of the benefits of being supported by others, and the value of supporting others and being witness to their journey. This experience has reminded me that there is always something to learn, and we are all a work in progress (which is the name of our podcast!).
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We are are recruiting for our next cohort!
If you’re involved in a voluntary, community, or social enterprise organisation and would like to bring issues you are facing to a peer support group let us know.
Follow the link here for more information about the Connect Fund
Up and coming events…
Join our webinar on Social Investment: Is it for me?
Wednesday 18 October, 18:00 – 19:30 / online
The webinar will focus on the different types of social investment and whether they are a good fit for your organisation’s goals and aspirations.
Follow the link here to register your place
Connection Event
Thursday 9 November, 16:30 – 18:30 / October Books
Our Connection Events are the perfect platform to expand your circle and foster meaningful connections in a relaxed and engaging environment.
