HR Professionals
Learning Metrics – book review
Cathy Hoy on a ‘must-read’ for L&D practitioners committed to making a measurable impact on their organisations Book: Learning Metrics: How to measure the impact of organizational learningAuthor: Ajay Pangarkar, Teresa Kirkwood In corporate learning and development, the ability to measure the impact of training interventions is more crucial than ever. Learning Metrics is a useful and practical resource, offering deep insights into the intricate (and often scary) world of learning metrics and their application for tangible business improvement. “The…
Are you busy being busy?
Philippa Spratt examines the modern phenomenon of ‘busyness’ and offers practical strategies for transforming it into meaningful productivity These days most people seem, or like, to think they’re busy. You hear it all the time but what’s the net result of all this busyness? Being busy doesn’t necessarily equate to being productive or adding value. It’s fine to be busy but it’s outcomes that matter. Be clear about the tasks you are responsible for that will move the dial As…
Neglecting frontline skillsets is no longer an option
Tom White delves into the bedrock of organisational success: the stable core of skills Many industries are experiencing workforce shortages, largely because of widening skills gaps and poor retention rates. The manufacturing industry in the US, for example, could face 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030, potentially costing the industry $1trn in 2030 alone. Meanwhile, America’s healthcare industry is losing nurses by the millions, with an annual turnover rate of 19.1%, because of burnout. And when it comes to the…
Leading by example: Encouraging mental health conversations in the workplace
Anita Guru moves through the cost of mental health challenges and focuses on how workplaces can be more open For Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 this year’s theme is “movement”. The Mental Health UK Burnout Report 2024 found that 56% of adults reported that regular exercise helped them to manage stress. Regular exercise not only helps with symptoms of stress, but also things like improving your sleep, mood and confidence. Exercise doesn’t mean intensive workouts, it could be a walk,…
Reimagining engagement: Leadership for uncertain times
Kevin Johnson explores strategies for HR and L&D leaders to navigate volatility and foster engagement When uncertainty is fast becoming the only constant, HR executives and learning and development leaders face a complex challenge. How do they re-engage and reinvigorate their workforce when the foundation of ‘normal’ has shifted? The answer lies in demonstrating leadership, creating purpose, building trust, and fostering personal and business growth. Leadership is not about relentless action; it’s about thoughtful influence From a worldwide health…
Leading beyond the pyramid: Crafting a culture of agile, empowered decision-making
Henrik Ekelund champions a shift towards decentralised decision-making in today’s fast-paced business environment Organisations today are struggling with decision-making more than ever before. In an era where technological innovations and global macrotrends are redefining the way we do business, the traditional hierarchical models of corporate governance are proving to be not just inadequate but a barrier to success. The old ways of command-and-control leadership slow down progress and stifle innovation. They create and reinforce silos and prevent those further down…
Data engineering: a role redefined by business needs and interpersonal skills
Shadi Rostami looks at the role of a data engineer, and it’s not just numbers. Communication and a business mindset are crucial for a role that’s increasingly important for L&D teams While companies today have vast, continually expanding data sources, most don’t fully comprehend the extent of their data’s value, nor the critical role it plays in driving business decisions. This is where data engineers come in, a role among the fastest growing within the UK job market. By cultivating…
From awareness to action: equipping managers to support mental health at work
Michelle Robinson Hayes looks at the unseen burden of managers and the mental health crisis, and asks: are you helping your managers to help others? Employees across all age groups and demographics are experiencing increased stress levels, anxiety and burnout. In fact, stress, depression and anxiety accounted for 49% of all work-related ill health and 54% of working days lost due to such health issues in 2022 to 2023 – a rate which is higher than pre-pandemic levels, according to…
ADHD Works at Work – book review
David Hayden reviews a ‘must-read’ book offering a fresh perspective on inclusion Book: ADHD Works at WorkAuthor: Leanne Maskell There is a line in this book that really stood out for me. I was aware of the concept before I started reading, but it wasn’t at the forefront of my mind. The line is: “If you have met one person with ADHD, you have met one person with ADHD”. This is a very practical book; 224 pages with lots of…
Think Like a Coach – book review
Book: Think Like A CoachAuthor: Jude Sclater As an L&D practitioner, I am increasingly drawn to coaching – the methods, theories and advice. I truly believe this is a skill that benefits everyone. I am also passionate about helping first-time managers find their feet in an authentic way. So, when UK-based coach Jude Sclater reached out to review her very first book, this was like a match made in heaven for me! She veers away from heavy academic language, instead sharing anecdotes…
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