Category Communication

Psychological safety for neurodiversity: One size does not fit all 

Businessman protecting team under red umbrella.  Hands hold umbrella over small wooden figures of people on a desk

Psychological safety is the secret sauce of brilliant teams, but how does it actually play out, especially when neurodivergent minds are in the mix? We explore what it means to feel safe, seen and supported at work, and why listening…

Read MorePsychological safety for neurodiversity: One size does not fit all 

Clear, kind and real: How to make communication count 

Man and woman talking with string phone made of cups on the yellow background. Concept of communication

Your communication skills can go from clunky to clear with just a few tweaks. From knowing what kind of chat you’re really having to handling tricky moments with empathy, it’s all about keeping it real and human. Jo Henwood explains…

Read MoreClear, kind and real: How to make communication count 

How to turn conversations about stress into meaningful interventions in the workplace 

I need you to listen to me very carefully now!

Stress is everywhere, particularly in today’s working environment. And when someone finally speaks up, what a manager says next can change everything. Joseph Conway explains why giving managers the tools and confidence to handle tough conversations isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s…

Read MoreHow to turn conversations about stress into meaningful interventions in the workplace 

Proving learning’s worth in volatile tech environments

The factor that changes everything. A critical break. A sudden change in plans. A threat and a danger. Recover from the blow and get back on course. Severe stress. Withstand the blow.

Catherine Dock explores how L&D can demonstrate its value and measure impact in fast-moving, complex technology environments. From stakeholder engagement to meaningful metrics, she outlines practical strategies for aligning L&D with business outcomes—and why communities, clarity, and curiosity are key…

Read MoreProving learning’s worth in volatile tech environments

Spotting the risk from within: why training matters when tackling the insider threat

Cyber Threat Detected in Digital Code Interface, Alert System Highlighting Security Vulnerability in Cyber Environment

Employees can be your strongest defence… or your greatest vulnerability. As insider threats rise, cybersecurity issues grow and bottom lines are hit, L&D leaders have a crucial role in shifting culture and building resilience within. Rachael Tiffen explores how strategic…

Read MoreSpotting the risk from within: why training matters when tackling the insider threat

Behind the scenes of planning a new learning event: Last update before the fun!

Summer festive colorful bunting and blue sky, summer event celebration

With just a couple of weeks to go, Kirsty Lewis shares the emotional highs, financial lows and last-minute wins as SOFest edges closer. From surprise sponsors to sparkly outfit dilemmas, here’s a raw and real behind-the-scenes glimpse at the planning,…

Read MoreBehind the scenes of planning a new learning event: Last update before the fun!

Attention is earned, not given – what L&D needs to learn from marketing

Magnet attracting people traffic on color background, top view with space for text. Marketing concept

Marketers know how to grab attention and inspire action in people — so why isn’t L&D learning from their approaches and methods? In this smart crossover, Ricci Masero shares how marketing’s best strategies, approaches tactics can supercharge learning engagement, from…

Read MoreAttention is earned, not given – what L&D needs to learn from marketing

How to handle difficult conversations without losing learner trust

We need to talk concept. Difficult conversation and Workplace Communication

Training and coaching can surface emotions, resistance, and of course, personal baggage. But with curiosity, empathy, and assertiveness, learning professionals can turn tension into transformation—and build deeper trust with their clients. Cliff Lansley explores three types of empathy and advises…

Read MoreHow to handle difficult conversations without losing learner trust

Influence or manipulation? Why mindful manoeuvring is a leadership skill no one’s teaching

Puppeteer manipulates the doll. The conference is unfair. Fake person at conference or meeting. Fake news

Influence happens—intentionally or not and it’s the engine of modern leadership. Caitlin Collins unpacks the line between guiding and manipulating at work, revealing why leaders need more than authority to truly move people. This is the leadership skill hiding in…

Read MoreInfluence or manipulation? Why mindful manoeuvring is a leadership skill no one’s teaching

How to stretch your budget to achieve high-impact L&D

Business budget cut. Inflation economics, recession, crisis, budgeting and management.

Tight budgets don’t have to mean low impact. Steve Macaulay shares smart, strategic ways to do more with less in your L&D department, so you can look at boosting learning, increasing performance, and sparking innovation – without breaking the bank.…

Read MoreHow to stretch your budget to achieve high-impact L&D