The Stroke Association
Memorable training for managers
Video Arts in conversation with Richard Searson, Training and Development Manager.
Are there particular development needs that you are addressing?
Yes: leadership, managing expectations and change management. The organisation has gone through big changes in the last six years .... as we've grown we've introduced new tiers of management to supervise the growth so we've needed to make sure our people have the right leadership skills to succeed.
And then beyond that we've been looking at our soft skills needs. That's where Video Arts has come into its own.
How did you come to know about Video Arts?
Now you're going back! I first came in contact with Video Arts back in 1990 and I was invited to a premier for a new title featuring John Cleese. Since then I've stuck with Video Arts because they do the best training videos and DVDs. I looked at others but they are quite staid - humour and the ability to put a point across is vital when you're doing training delivery. Video Arts are great at pulling out the key messages and getting them across in a way that people remember – no-one else does that.
What content have you been using recently?
I think I've got virtually all the titles! Our current favourites are 'Jamie Oliver on change' and 'Jamie Oliver on leadership' ... it gives people a different perspective and highlights how leadership and working effectively together are vital.
How would you rate the Video Arts team?
They've been great. They've always been very proactive at helping me. In particular, being able to preview new releases online is such a helpful tool for me to check out the content and decide whether it will work for me. They are always very helpful.
