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When it comes to recruitment and retention, Mesma feel there's one looming issue that needs raising, that of parentcare. With an ageing population comes the impact of recruiting and retaining people who juggle jobs with caring for elderly relatives. This opens up a challenging conversation about flexibility, security and the risk of burnout.
Louise Doyle, CEO, Mesma said:
"As a small business, we must be creative in providing what matters to our employees beyond just salary. It’s about creating a place where people want to work.”
At Mesma, the heart of a successful small business is in its culture of open communication and adaptability. CEO Louise Doyle and Marketing Manager Sally Forsyth emphasise the importance of striking a balance between openness and diplomacy. They have cultivated an environment where employees feel empowered to speak their minds, while recognising the need to manage those conversations carefully.
Mesma, located in The Core at Newcastle Helix, is a quality management software provider that sets an example of flexibility and community-driven work culture. Louise acknowledges that running a small business comes with unique challenges - there’s nowhere to hide. Each team member plays a critical role, and emotional intelligence becomes essential to maintain strong relationships without escalating conflicts unnecessarily. As Sally Forsyth explains,
“In a small business, you have to rely on each other to know when it's appropriate to say things."
In a recent discussion as part of the Both Sides of the Desk podcast CEO Louise Doyle and marketing manager, Sally Forsyth, showcase the company’s commitment to work-life balance and community growth.
Key highlights include:
Flexible working arrangements: Mesma has implemented a four-day work week option for employees, demonstrating a commitment to work-life balance. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to attract and retain talent in a competitive market.
Apprenticeship-first policy: The company has adopted an "apprenticeship-first" approach to recruitment, with half of their team having started as apprentices. This policy showcases Mesma's dedication to developing local talent and addressing skills gaps in the North East of England.
Community-focused approach: Mesma's client relationships are characterised by a strong sense of community, which has become a unique selling point for the business. This approach has led to the creation of a supportive network for professionals in their sector.
Balancing personal and professional responsibilities: The leadership team openly discussed the challenges of managing caregiving responsibilities alongside work commitments, particularly in the context of an aging population.
Innovative office space: Mesma has invested in a central office space at Newcastle Helix, recognising the importance of in-person collaboration while maintaining flexibility for remote work when necessary.
One of the most pressing issues discussed by the team is the “sandwich generation”- employees who balance caring for both aging parents and young children. Sally, who supports her mother living with Alzheimer’s, shares how this dual caregiving role impacts her work-life balance. Louise notes that these challenges are amplified in small businesses, where flexibility is key, but the risks of burnout are ever-present.
Mesma strives to accommodate these complex situations by offering flexibility in working hours and locations. As Louise points out, this adaptability allows employees to handle personal responsibilities while maintaining their professional roles. However, this comes with its own set of challenges, including managing workloads and preventing burnout.
To further support work-life balance, Mesma has implemented a four-day workweek option, although some, like Sally, choose to maintain a five-day schedule for greater flexibility. The company also invests in apprenticeships, a reflection of their commitment to nurturing young talent in the North East, a region with high unemployment among young people. Louise is uncompromising on this front, believing that fostering new talent is crucial for both Mesma and the local community.
Despite its size, Mesma has created a culture where employees are encouraged to grow, contribute, and manage their own work-life balance. The company’s approach to flexible working, open communication, and community involvement is a model for how small businesses can thrive by putting their people first.
John Seager, Estates Director, Newcastle Helix said:
“Mesma’s enlightened approach to work-life balance and community growth includes flexible schedules, 4-day work weeks, and rethinking office culture in a post-pandemic world. Unlike large corporations, small businesses have unique challenges in supporting employees while staying competitive and we're very pleased that Mesma has been able to grow and build their business here at Newcastle Helix."
New Podcast Series: Both Sides of the Desk Now available
The evolution of workplace culture is the subject of a new video podcast series, Both Sides of the Desk, where you can listen to how Mesma sets a new standard for SMEs.
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