L&D Leaders
Bringing L&D to centre stage: How improv elevated the learning experience
Neil Mullarkey’s theatre improvisation techniques prepare leaders for the unpredictable nature of real-world business interactions – all while boosting the impact of the L&D function For learning and development professionals, standing out in a crowded field of conventional training programmes can be a significant challenge. One seasoned L&D director in the professional services sector discovered a ground-breaking approach that not only enhanced the skills of her leaders but also elevated the status and impact of the L&D function itself. “Improv training addresses a…
Adapting to Change: Leadership, Neuroscience, and AI in Workplace Learning
Explore key points from the World of Learning conference, including AI, neuroscience, leadership and inclusivity – all summarised by Editor Jo Cook At the World of Learning conference, industry leaders shared innovative ideas and practical approaches for transforming workplace learning. Below are the key takeaways from sessions that addressed managerial buy-in, leadership in changing environments, neuroscience in learning, AI-driven skill measurement, and workforce planning – all of which took place in Birmingham, UK, in October 2024. We don’t just train…
TJ podcast: Gender, AI, and the pursuit of equity – episode 324
Discussing AI perpetuating existing gender imbalances, men’s health awareness, perimenopause support and L&D gender perception Podcast summary: Created by Cleanvoice The podcast explores the complex relationship between gender and AI, discussing how design choices by developers can influence how users perceive the gender of AI assistants. Research shows men are more likely to use AI technology compared to women, mirroring gender imbalances in the workplace. The speakers examine how gender biases and perceptions impact AI adoption and use, emphasizing the…
We spend billions on leadership development – so why are employees still stressed?
Changing how people are managed is critical for improving employee wellbeing and increasing workplace engagement. Dominic Ashley-Timms and Laura Ashley-Timms share the strategies that can make a real difference According to Gallup’s latest State of the Global Workplace, 41% of employees report experiencing “a lot of stress” at work. What’s more, it identified that those who work in companies with bad management practices are nearly 60% more likely to be stressed than those working in environments with good management practices. Managers…
Empowering emerging leaders: Tips for a successful transition
With the right mix of L&D support, you can help new managers become effective leaders, writes Sarah Henson Stepping into a managerial role for the first time is a significant career achievement, but it comes with its own unique set of challenges. Without the right support, managers may struggle with the pressures of their new roles, which can lead to decreased team performance, high stress levels, and even burnout. Enrol new managers in a development programme that covers the basics –…
The seven stages of transcendent awakening: A roadmap for evolving as a leader
Discover transcendent leadership: embodying a vision that uplifts, transforms and drives innovation for lasting success, writes Dr Lisa Turner In the modern workplace, where change is constant and challenges are increasingly complex, leadership requires more than managing teams or optimising processes. True leadership calls for deep personal evolution – a journey of transcendent awakening that equips leaders to drive both organisational success and meaningful societal change. It’s my prediction that those organisations who can foster the transcendent leader will be the…
From cringe to constructive: A guide to giving feedback that sticks
Discover the top feedback mistakes managers make – and how to fix them for better results. Julia Milner reveals the four-step feedback framework you need Can I give you some feedback? Employees often cringe when they hear these words. Want to avoid the cringe? Here are some tips on how to set employees at ease and ensure your pearls of wisdom, or just simple advice, stick. Maybe it’s time you reflected on the four pillars of feedback and how often…
Strengthening the backbone: Manager training is crucial for organisational health
Helping managers thrive is essential for team engagement and organisational success. René Janssen explains how comprehensive training provides the tools to address today’s challenges When you’re a manager, the pressure comes from all sides. Including balancing organisational goals, team dynamics and individual performance amid the complexities of modern work environments. These challenges tend to accumulate quickly and, if left unaddressed, can significantly increase the risk of burnout. Investing in a manager is investing in the entire organisation’s wellbeing Managers are…
TJ interviews: Authors Tracey Camilleri, Samantha Rockey and Robin Dunbar
Jo speaks with authors of The Social Brain about group dynamics, human connection and thriving together Training Journal to all: Why come together to write a book about the social brain, and what does that mean? All: We come from different disciplines (evolutionary psychology, corporate leadership and learning design). Throughout our careers the three of us have been interested in the same question: Why is it that some groups function as more than the sum of their parts – and other groups, however talented,…
Conversational Wisdom – book review
Packed with insights, this book provides practical tools to enhance communication skills in everyday life. Reviewed by Peter Plumlee Book: Conversational WisdomAuthors: Emily Cosgrove and Sara Hope I was intrigued yet uncertain about what to expect before diving into this book. We all like to think we engage in insightful conversations daily, but this book prompts us to truly reflect on our daily communication. Our increasingly hybrid lives put meaningful communication at risk, and the authors provide a roadmap for…
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