Do you remember your first day of articles? How nervous you were? Did you know then what you know now? I ask these questions because I often observe new managers welcoming trainees into their organisations while completely forgetting that not so long ago, they were once in the same position.
At a time of heightened awareness around mental health, and within one of the most demanding professions in the world, we cannot continue as we always have. As a manager, it is important to remember that you are actively creating the culture of your organisation. This is not a task or responsibility that sits with HR alone. It is yours. You hold the key to unlocking the potential of the trainees joining your organisation.
Make the decision today about the kind of manager you are going to be: one who builds futures or one who tears them down. I hope you choose the former. If you do, here are some ways to best support that choice.
At all times, even when deadlines are tight, remember that you are dealing with a human being first. You are an ambassador of the profession, and the impact you make will stay with these trainees long after they leave your organisation. Choose praise at every opportunity. As humans, we respond far better to encouragement than punishment. Praising those who perform well often motivates those who are struggling, while consistently punishing underperformance can intimidate even your top performers and erode motivation.
Be a source of encouragement to your team. Encourage trainees to build relationships and friendships at work. They will spend most of their waking hours in this environment, and it is a lonely experience to work among people with whom they feel no sense of belonging.
Give them space to adjust, transition, and learn. Do not expect them to know everything from day one. While their technical competence may meet expectations, this is often their first professional environment, and they may still be developing critical soft skills. Where time or capacity is limited, ask for help. Organisations like No-Valo exist to support trainees in becoming workplace-ready professionals.
I leave you with the words of Kim Scott: ‘Care personally, challenge directly.’ Let us inspire the next generation of industry leaders.
Leading new trainees
As organisations welcome first-year trainees each February, managers play a defining role in shaping early professional experiences. First, lead with empathy, remember that confidence grows with time, not on day one. Second, set clear expectations early, not just around performance, but around behaviour, communication, and professional standards. Clarity reduces anxiety and builds trust. Third, invest in development beyond technical skills. Professional success is shaped just as much by communication, resilience, and self-management as it is by technical ability. When managers intentionally create space for learning and growth, trainees are more likely to thrive and stay.
Thulisile Mgidi AGA(SA)
General Manager & Certified Coach
No-Valo Learning Centre
