Communication
Behind the scenes of planning a new learning event: Show me the money
How much does a new learning summit cost? Kirsty Lewis shares an eye watering amount This month I want to share the emotional rollercoaster that is creating a festival from scratch with NO financial backing. If you are discovering this blog for the first time today, let me introduce myself: My name is Kirsty Lewis, founder of School of Facilitation and the architect of SOFest. A three day, in-person, learning event, space, summit (call it anything but a conference) SOFest…
Behind the scenes of planning a new learning event: The workshops
Kirsty Lewis focuses her new festival planning on the different themes and workshops we need For those of you who missed the previous blog, let me catch you up: Imagine walking through a glade of trees with a lake by your side, along a path that leads you to a large field filled with tipis, yurts, a campfire and 120 people. That is what SOFest is going to be like, no stuffy hotel or boring conference centre. I am even…
Behind the scenes of planning a new learning event: The journey begins
An honest account of the roller coaster of creating a newconference, with Kirsty Lewis About five years ago I came up with an idea of an event whereby 100 facilitators, trainers, coaches and consultants would come together, in a field, to connect, learn and share (and camp). Then came Covid and a few years of self-doubt which meant I never started! I am going to share with you the journey I am on – everything from the finances and emotions,…
Case study: How ‘Time in Other People’s Shoes’ transformed collaboration
Building understanding and connection between differing teams can be a challenge, but this approach made an impact To make sure it continues to puts people and customers at the heart of everything it does, Stiltz Homelifts created the innovative Time in Other People’s Shoes (TIOPS) initiative. The scheme was developed to help employees truly understand what challenges and pressures colleagues have in their individual roles and to foster a great environment of closer collaboration and caring for one another. Our CEO…
7 people management tips for first-time managers
If you are new to managing people, Mendy Slaton shares insights to improve your approach Some people are born to be managers, and others have management thrust upon them. In fact, a 2023 study by CMI found that a staggering 82% of workers entering management positions have not had any formal management and leadership training, adding to the stock of “accidental managers”. Managers have a unique power to shape the environment and attitudes within the organisation Whether “accidental” or not,…
Six New Year resolutions for a successful people strategy in 2025
Get insights from six leading thinkers and innovators that ensure your teams thrive amid disruption Another year is on the horizon and yet again economic challenges, a rapidly evolving workforce and new technologies look to disrupt the way we operate. Evolving our people strategies to meet these new challenges will be the difference in being able to seize emerging opportunities or faltering at them. Here are six expert-backed resolutions to help cultivate a future-ready, inclusive people strategy: 1. Develop courageous…
Gen Z talent, productivity and potential unlocked with three keys
Coaching, skill development and a collaborative workplace culture helps Gen Z thrive and boost productivity – Katie Mahony explains Generation Z face some unique pressures stepping into the workplace. According to a 2023 Gallup report, Gen Z workers show higher levels of stress and anxiety than any other generation. One may argue that transitioning from a reasonably predictable world of education to a workplace undergoing massive digital change, together with wrestling with a new set of post-pandemic expectations, places significant pressure…
Learning from life: Being abandoned portside
When you are left frustrated and abandoned, what can you learn about thinking and communication? Michelle Parry-Slater shares her story The Christmas Holidays are upon us, meaning Boxing Day sales and Summer Holiday adverts will be popping up in abundance, enticing us to plan for summer 2025. There’s nothing like packing up the tinsel and finishing off the Baileys whilst dreaming of blue sea and soft sand. Now I live in Australia, summer is well and truly here. Schools have…
Top blogs of the year: From storytelling to leadership and emotional expression
These top 2024 blogs offer fresh insights and practical tips to inspire growth and innovation As we near the end of another transformative year, the L&D landscape continues to evolve, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to the forefront. To celebrate the best of 2024, I’ve curated a list of standout blogs that have sparked meaningful conversations, inspired action, and offered practical insights. From the art of storytelling and the power of emotional expression to redefining leadership and capability-driven futures,…
Top articles of the year: Exploring the leading conversations in L&D
Discover compelling L&D insights from 2024 – agile leadership, AI’s impact, skill development, and more As the world of work continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, so too does the learning and development landscape. From navigating the complexities of agile leadership to leveraging the transformative power of AI and addressing the critical need for future-ready skills, this year has been packed with insightful discussions and thought leadership. This round up the top articles that captured the attention of our…
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