The growth mindset (and how to cultivate it)

Andrew Stephenson CMgr FCMI is in no doubt as to the value of ongoing learning at Equiniti, the financial services company where he works as chief people officer. Personal growth consistently comes out as one of the biggest drivers of people’s engagement at the organisation. Other factors, like rewards, don’t rank nearly as high. 

“Our business is recognised as one of the top employers in the world, with high engagement and low attrition,” says Andrew. “I don’t believe that’s a coincidence. We’re good at investing in developing our employees.”

That investment is a clear boon for the individual too. It can boost a person’s confidence, capabilities and career prospects, whether they’re looking to rise through the ranks at their organisation or to make themselves more employable beyond it.

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“Our pulse surveys tell us that, where we have a high level of engagement, investing in people through training and growth is an absolutely critical factor,” says Andrew.

“He never says no”

But when a person is already working hard in a demanding day job, finding the time, energy and motivation for that extra learning can be tough. 

This is where supportive managers, who can foster a growth mindset and advocate for learning programmes, have a critical role to play.

Deon Pillay CMgr MCMI is head of marketing technology, enablement and governance at Legal and General Investment Management. He proudly “walks the talk” on growth – by studying something new every year himself. Last year, he completed a project management course. In 2023, he gained his coaching qualifications. He’s currently studying for a qualification in AI for business. 

And when it comes to enabling his team’s growth, he’s following a strong example, set by his own manager. 

“He’s never said ‘no’ to me,” says Deon. “He’s always encouraged that learning and development mindset. He says to go and study, and asks what I need from him in order to do so. That’s the kind of leader you need: someone who’s going to encourage that growth mindset, wherever your passion lies.”

Deon acknowledges the time commitment required to keep learning. It can be hard to strike the balance with other life commitments, he says. But he also sees it as an investment – and one that’s worth any sacrifice. 

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He recommends certain resources in CMI’s Career Development Centre, including the mentoring platform, and reading the accounts of best practice from other managers who’ve done it all before.