The Indispensable Role of Learning & Development

When I joined CER in February 2023, I started on a cold desk with just 8 days. Through consistent effort—and, crucially, with the support and training provided by the business—I was able to grow that to a comfortable 95 days per week, peaking at 115 days by the end of March 2024.

 

I couldn’t have achieved this without the incredible learning and development opportunities led by Sophy Benjamin and her team. From in-house training days and online learning platforms to the invaluable mentoring I received in January 2025, every experience helped shape my progress.

The Turning Point: The 100-Day Club

A key turning point was joining the 100-Day Club in February 2024—an initiative designed for new starters who, like me, felt the daily challenge of breaking into the market and feared every call or email might be met with rejection.

Under Sophy’s guidance, the 100-Day Club became a space where I could learn how to manage my time more effectively, avoid distractions, and most importantly—stay resilient. The sessions allowed for honest conversations with other consultants facing similar hurdles. We shared ideas, best practices, and supported one another through the highs and lows of recruitment life. It was clear that Sophy and her team had carefully considered the varied nature of desks and consultants, offering flexible and tailored support that respected those differences.

For me, making weekly face-to-face visits to my schools became a game-changer. It built trust and turned us into the “go-to” supply agency for several schools in my area. Twelve months after joining CER, I proudly achieved my 100-day goal.

As we celebrate Learning at Work Week, I want to express my sincere thanks to Sophy Benjamin for creating a culture of continuous growth and encouragement. Her work has made a real and lasting impact—not just on me, but on so many others across Affinity Workforce Solutions. I would highly recommend the 100-Day Club, and the broader L&D initiatives Sophy leads, to any new starter looking to grow, learn, and succeed.

Jenni Hockney | Recruitment Consultant, CER Liverpool

 

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