Business boost from unique rotary scheme

Businesses are being urged to sign up for next yearís Rotaryís Group Study Exchange, a unique international exchange which will help their employees develop new skills and ideas by witnessing work practices in other countries

The Group Study Exchange program, now in its 40th year, arranges for professionals aged between 25 and 40 who are in the early stages of their career to visit other countries and observe how their vocations are practiced abroad.

Since 1968, Rotary has used its connections in more than 200 countries and geographical areas to organise 718 exchanges to countries including India, South Africa, Japan, Germany, USA, Denmark, Norway, Canada and New Zealand with some 3,600 participants benefiting from the scheme.

In a typical four week visit, a team of four to six professionals visit a host country and experience its culture and institutions, observe equivalent vocations, develop personal and professional relationships and exchange ideas.

George Kempton, Rotary Group Study Exchange Co-ordinator, told employers: ìThe GSE programme can be an excellent way to recognize top-performing staff or provide exposure for potential young leaders in the increasingly global workplace.

ìThe program is designed to have an invaluable impact on the career of a young professional by creating networking opportunities as well as developing communication and facilitation skills that will help take your company into the future.

ìEmployers who have used the scheme in the past have reported a marked development in their employees confidence, leadership skills and team building abilities. In addition, it provides a great public relations opportunity to promote awareness of your business or organization, as local and international media may feature interviews, photos, and articles about the exchange.

ìWe are urging corporations, small businesses, community organisations, medical and educational facilities, government offices, and not-for-profit agencies to get in touch and take advantage of this win-win scheme.î

For each team member, Rotary provides the most economical round-trip airline ticket between the home and host countries. Members of Rotary clubs in the host area provide for meals, lodging, and group travel within their district.

During the exchange, teams will visit local businesses, government offices, community organisations and historical and cultural sites whilst staying with host families and taking part in social activities.

Team members receive orientation and cultural preparation from the sponsor Rotary district before their departure which may include language training and practice of oral presentations.

For more information on how to take advantage of the Group Study Exchange, email George Kempton at george.kempton@lundybay.net.