L&D Professionals
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…
Diversifying work settings: The growing trend of workcations
Do you fancy taking a break from your work environment, but not the work itself? Try a workcation – remote working from a holiday destination When flexible remote working became the norm, employees worldwide began reaping the benefits of a more relaxed schedule, improved productivity, and enhanced mental health. A study by Microsoft found that 70% of workers globally want flexible remote work options to continue. Gen Z is spearheading a new trend called ‘workcations’ which offer the opportunity to…
Facilitate and flourish: The role of communities for professional growth
Explore how shared learning, nurturing connections, and active contribution in communities can boost professional growth with Fiona McBride In my last post, I shared how the changing season can serve as a metaphor for growth within our facilitation practice. I reflected on the importance of seeking continuous improvement, trying new approaches as a professional. In our professional lives, those around us play a crucial role in our personal development and contribute to the collective success of our clients and customers. …
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…
Ageless insight: Embracing the value of experience in a rapidly evolving workplace
Ageism is real; talented individuals in their 40s and 50s face unfair bias at work. Effective teams thrive by blending seasoned wisdom with youthful energy. Rose Fass explains how to leverage experience across all ages There’s a shift happening in the workplace that we need to address, and it’s more pressing now than ever before. Ageism, once something that primarily affected those nearing retirement, is now creeping into the lives of professionals much earlier. I’m seeing it firsthand in the…
Boozy dinners are so 2000. Let’s rethink work culture and focus on inclusivity
Help employees thrive by tackling workplace drinking culture and creating inclusive, alcohol-free events for teams, writes Alex Clapp Employee wellbeing has never been more of a priority. From safeguarding mental health and helping staff navigate the current cost-of-living challenges to promoting physical fitness through private healthcare and gym memberships, companies are placing a stronger focus on supporting their workforce’s overall welfare. It’s also widely recognised that these benefits are what new recruits are looking for when considering their next move. But one issue is…
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…
Harnessing behavioural science for impactful learning programmes
Want to supercharge your L&D programmes? Try these key behavioural science tricks for learner engagement, from Houra Amin In our ongoing series exploring ways to enhance the impact and effectiveness of L&D programmes, we have already explored feedback loops and marginal gains. This third article examines some insights from behavioural science to guide us in maintaining learners’ engagement. Learning is not about cramming information into people’s heads; it’s about equipping them to retrieve and apply that information/knowledge when it matters…
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…
TJ interviews: CEO and sales transformation expert Matt Webb
Jo asks Matt Webb to reveal the modern secrets to improving your organisation’s sales technique Training Journal: A lot of people have a specific, negative, impression of someone who is trying to sell them something. You promote “sustainable selling”, what is that and why is it important? Matt: Normally, when you hear the word sustainable, you assume it’s focused on environmental impact. In the world of sales, however, when we talk about sustainable selling, we are referring to ethical selling…
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