L&D Leaders
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…
How can first-time CEOs manage stress effectively?
New to the top job? Don’t panic! David Roche shares practical tips to help first-time CEOs succeed McKinsey asserts that $1trillion is lost every year in market value of S&P’s top 1500 companies because of poorly planned transitions of CEOs and C-suite appointments. Not surprising, then, that two out of five CEOs fail in their first 18 months, according to the Harvard Business Review. Only when a leader is prepared to ask questions and lean on the skills of…
The importance of upskilling both technical and leadership skills
Sue Musson on how L&D can enhance the leadership skills of technical experts Leaders with technical competence hold a unique advantage in today’s demanding workplace. Their expertise establishes immediate credibility, provides a valuable knowledge resource for their organisations, and demonstrates exceptional technical proficiency. Such leaders also benefit from structured pathways for continuing professional development, ensuring their technical skills stay sharp and relevant. It’s easy to spot the technical expert who has been promoted to a leadership role but not planned…
How to build a fairer leadership pipeline for everyone
Sarah Danzl discusses how organisations can create more equitable leadership opportunities Organisations have made some progress in building more representative boards and C-suites, with the latest Women in the Workplace report from McKinsey & Co finding that it’s at the highest level since the report began. Yet, we still have a vacuum at the lower rungs of the career ladder, notably in middle management and director roles. For every 100 men promoted from entry-level to manager, 87 women were promoted…
The Glass Cliff – book review
Book: The Glass CliffAuthor: Sophie Williams I’m sure it’s not a coincidence that a book about women in leadership being under-represented and undermined was released the day before International Women’s Day. The day where women and their contributions are celebrated is an annual reminder that there is still much to do around equity and inclusion, but nothing quite prepared me for the bleak reality provided by Sophie Williams in this book. I found myself looking forward to starting the next…
TJ podcast: AI and L&D: enhancing human capability – episode 314
This episode gathers insights from L&D leaders on AI’s transformative role in training and performance. It explores AI literacy, the evaluation of tools, and the ethical use of technology, emphasising AI as both a tool and teammate. The discussion underscores the importance of human insight in leveraging AI to enhance learning outcomes. Speakers include: Trish UhlPaul WestlakeCathy HoyGinette TessierErica FarmerStella CollinsLiz NaylorEmma WeberMatthew BorgBinnaz CubukcuViddhi DevaniStella LeeBob MosherLior Locher Links from the discussion: Editor’s blog – don’t rush to…
Out of touch? The stark reality of the cost-of-living crisis and the responsibility of the C-suite
As more employees report feelings of stress and overwhelm, Rob Russell suggests eight ways to help the C-suite play an active role in company culture The cost of living in the UK and across the world has been on the rise since 2022, presenting unique challenges for businesses and individuals alike – and it’s not getting any easier. With 76% of employees reporting feelings of stress and overwhelm as a direct result of living cost hikes, there has never been…
Leadership in times of change: mastering emotional and political intelligence for influence
Steve Macaulay and Sarah Cook provide an overview of enabling managerial success through EQ and PQ In times of instability or sudden and unexpected change, it becomes even more important to manage relationships influentially. Many organisations are in this position now, with a host of change issues, one after another – from recovery from the pandemic to supply chain issues and working in a hybrid way. Bluntly: grasp political and emotional skills if you wish to make a success of…
C-suite and HR disconnect: can L&D redress the balance?
HR is often undervalued by the C-suite. Stan Massueras shows how to demonstrate the link between people programmes and business outcomes As workplace trends continue to evolve and businesses drive for greater productivity, performance and profitability, HR and L&D leaders are feeling increased pressure and scrutiny to show the value of their work. In the midst of that, however, it appears that a growing disconnect between the C-suite and HR strategy is developing. L&D has a vital role to play…
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