L&D Professionals

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Psychological safety for neurodiversity: One size does not fit all 

Esther Barrett

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 better might just be the leadership superpower we all need Psychological safety has become a cornerstone for effective, innovative, high-performing teams. But what is it actually like in practice? And how can we recognise its presence, particularly in environments where…

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The myth of leadership versus management: Why the best managers do both 

Paul Matthews

Too often, leadership and management are treated as opposing forces. But what if the real value lies in knowing how and when to switch between them? Paul Matthews explores how modern managers can blend both to get results without the drama, and why clinging to old distinctions just doesn’t work We often hear that leadership is somehow superior to management – as if one is purely about vision and inspiration, while the other is only about checklists and control. But…

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Clear, kind and real: How to make communication count 

Jo henwood

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 how to keep your cool and make your message land Recently, I delivered back-to-back sessions on wellbeing, communication, coaching and feedback. While these were separate sessions, there are themes across all the topics that can make our communication more impactful.  …

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L&D at a crossroads: Innovate like Netflix or fade like Blockbuster 

Ravinder Tulsiani

Learning and development teams are facing a turning point. Ravinder Tulsiani explains what needs to change to stay useful and effective. From using smart technology to making learning quicker and easier to access, it is time to move on from the old ways and build something that really works today Learning and Development professionals are facing an existential choice – evolve or become obsolete. Just as Netflix revolutionised entertainment by leveraging AI, data and on-demand content while Blockbuster clung to…

A vibrant stack of sticky notes sits on a wooden desk, with a bold Future Proofing note prominently displayed. This image captures the essence of planning and innovation, inspiring viewers to think

Future-proofing with scenario thinking

Steve Macaulay

What if you encountered a Black Swan, a Grey Rhino or a Silver Lining? Steve Macaulay and David Buchanan show how these powerful metaphors for shocks, slow-burning threats and surprise opportunities can help you prepare for the future, not by predicting it, but by staying adaptable and ready for anything In this article, we explore how to anticipate disruption and turn it into an advantage; build resilience to respond with agility; and align workforce strategy with emerging futures to stay…

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Beyond push-back: 5 modern truths about change resistance

Simon Phillips

Change at work feels harder than ever. But there’s more going on than people simply digging in their heels. Simon Phillips unpacks what’s really behind the push-back, from stress and burnout to wanting a proper say in decisions, and shares smart ways to help make change feel better for everyone  The old wisdom about change resistance needs updating. Our post-pandemic world has transformed how people respond to workplace transformation, particularly with mental health challenges now taking centre stage in every…

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The future of L&D: Focusing on potential to grow skills continuously 

Mark Thompson

Rethinking hiring and learning? You’re not alone. Mark Thompson explores why a tick-box approach is out, and how spotting potential and weaving learning into everyday work can future-proof your business. From agile assessments to leadership-led learning, it’s time to invest in people who grow as fast as the world changes  For years, hiring decisions have been shaped by rigid qualifications – degrees, CVs and checklists of experience. But as the workplace evolves, so must our collective hiring mindset. What if…

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Think you’re ‘good’ at AI? It’s not automation, it’s augmentation that matters

Josh Wöhle

Let’s bust a myth: AI isn’t just about ditching tasks, it’s about supercharging what people can do at work. In this eye-opener, Joshua Wöhle breaks down why augmentation, not automation, is where the real magic happens, and how it’s reshaping productivity, potential and even what your job might look like  Many organisations are approaching AI with a fundamental misunderstanding. I’m seeing plenty of enthusiasm for AI adoption, but there’s a concerning pattern: companies are focusing on building systems that automate and remove…

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The role of training in overcoming imposter syndrome

Mike Worley

Self-doubt doesn’t just live in your head, it’s hitting businesses hard. From lost productivity to rising staff turnover, imposter syndrome is more than a buzzword. In this piece, Mike Worley explores how targeted training and development can give employees the confidence and tools they need to overcome it and thrive  Imposter syndrome – the persistent feeling of not being qualified, smart or confident enough for a role – affects nearly a third of employees. While it often manifests as self-doubt, stress, anxiety and burnout,…

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Change fatigue: Why L&D should prioritise the human side of change

Steve Macaulay

Change fatigue is feeling weary, indifferent or resistant towards increasing organisational changes. Steve Macaulay explores how L&D can play a pivotal role in tackling this issue by focusing on emotional wellbeing, resilience and communication, ensuring employees feel supported, valued and capable of navigating transitions successfully in today’s fast-paced business environment There is a widespread problem in organisations, manifesting itself as the exhaustion many employees are feeling as they face constant change. Companies often use neutral, even positive, managerial language to describe…