Since 2008, Pharmalys Ltd has seen consistent growth, with a notable acceleration over the past two years, expanding from 30 to 50 employees. The Pharmalys team is primarily composed of remote workers spread across the globe, from USA to India, the UK to South Africa. This rapid expansion, coupled with increased workloads, necessitated a company reorganisation and solutions to help the team adapt to changes and embrace the new structure.
To address challenges such as maintaining effective collaboration and communication, fostering team spirit and a sense of belonging, enhancing time management and motivation, we launched a comprehensive Soft Skills Programme in January 2024. Two programmes were created with tailored modules for managers and professionals, covering Time & Stress Management, Management & Manager Coach Posture, Leadership & Hybrid Management, Communication Styles & Influencing, Assertiveness, Negotiation & Conflict Resolution, Problem-Solving Techniques, and a Recap/Integration session. In replacement of Leadership and Management sessions, professionals focused on Organisation, Prioritisation, and Working remotely.
The programme was highly interactive, featuring numerous case scenarios that allowed us to apply newly learned concepts and methods. We also had homework assignments between sessions and in parallel, peer coaching organised by a Pharmalys colleague, all of which reinforced our learning. We are very enthusiastic about the insights we have gained and grateful for the enrichment these courses provided. The tools we received are invaluable in both our professional and personal lives.
To illustrate the impact of the programme, here is a reflection written by one of our team members:
EVERYONE DESERVES TO BE HEARD
COMMUNICATION, LEADERSHIP & SOLUTIONS
- Leadership is crucial in any organisation. Effective leaders listen and manage emotions appropriately.
- Knowing how to motivate your workforce is vital. I have found that using various techniques helps bring out the best in everyone.
- I am a very positive person who takes accountability and ownership of my actions.
- Always remember that perfection is not the goal; remaining teachable is. Mistakes happen sometimes, and we should avoid jumping to conclusions.
- Prioritising tasks is essential, including learning to say no when necessary, something I find difficult.
- Use box breathing techniques during challenging moments. Take 2 minutes out to reflect and stay calm.
- Being assertive is crucial when dealing with diverse personalities.
- Stress blockers remind me not to judge others by my standards, acknowledging our unique abilities.
- Finally, remember to always be kind in your actions and words, and stay calm in the moment.
We intend to work further on the integration and application of all these concepts to enhance our daily lives at Pharmalys and advance our professional careers.
