Professional Development
Forget AI efficiency — creativity is the real workplace edge
As AI transforms the workplace, the spotlight shifts to soft skills — creativity, empathy and adaptability — that machines can’t replicate. L&D professionals play a vital role in nurturing uniquely human traits, preparing employees to keep pace with change, and to thrive in it. The future of work is deeply, defiantly human. AI may be changing the game, shaking up the way we work and making everything more efficient, but here’s the thing: the more AI takes over the routine,…
Behind the scenes of planning a new learning event: Last update before the fun!
With just a couple of weeks to go, Kirsty Lewis shares the emotional highs, financial lows and last-minute wins as SOFest edges closer. From surprise sponsors to sparkly outfit dilemmas, here’s a raw and real behind-the-scenes glimpse at the planning, panicking and reality of building a learning festival from scratch When I started writing these blogs for TJ they were a retro of the month before, the activities, the highlights and lows of SOFest. As we are drawing closer to…
Unlocking frontline performance: The next evolution in enterprise learning
The hidden majority that is underserved by traditional L&D efforts are the frontline workers that power most industries. This partner article explores how compliance training, mobile learning, and early development can evolve from tick-box exercises into performance drivers that unlock skills, boost retention, and helping build smarter, more agile teams. Frontline workers, those who serve customers, operate machinery, move goods, and support communities, make up around 80% of the global workforce. Yet, they remain underrepresented in corporate learning strategies, which…
TJ podcast: From talk to transformation – the art of effective facilitation – episode 327
In this episode, we explore the subtle (and not-so-subtle) differences between teaching, training, and facilitation—and why they matter more than you might think. From accidental facilitators to seasoned pros, our guests share honest reflections, practical approaches, and cautionary tales about what makes learning stick. We dive into the skills that set great facilitators apart, the common mistakes that derail engagement and impact, and why designing for learning transfer is non-negotiable. Whether you’re delivering in person or online, this is a…
Bring the joy: how fun fuels learning and is key to getting serious work done
Fun isn’t a distraction – it’s a powerful enabler of deep learning, collaboration and creativity. Laura Thomson-Staveley shares how creating joyful, inclusive environments helps professionals feel safer, think more openly and bring their best selves to work – a little joy can go a long way in transforming workplace learning experiences As a leadership coach and trainer with 25 years of experience, I’ve noticed a fascinating shift in workplace dynamics over recent months. More and more participants in my workshops,…
L&D isn’t broken. The way we work is.
✨ From firefighting to accusations of being a cost centre. You’re not the problem — the system is ✨ In this punchy partner piece, we introduce the People Impact Loop™: a strategic shift that puts marketing, design and business alignment at the heart of L&D — and proves impact from day one You’ve built the platform. Curated the content. Launched the campaign. And still… silence. Low engagement. Vague outcomes. Stakeholders giving you that look that says, “What exactly do you…
Embracing cultural humility: A dynamic shift in leadership
🌍 Cultural competence is out – cultural humility is in! True inclusive leadership isn’t about mastering diversity but embracing lifelong learning. 💡 Dr Lesley Aitcheson explores how shifting to cultural humility fosters respect, trust and meaningful connections in today’s workplaces. 🚀 Lead with humility, thrive with diversity! In today’s interconnected and dynamic workplaces, the ability to navigate cultural differences is a critical skill for leaders and a key element in modelling an appreciation of diversity. Historically, the concept of ‘cultural competence’ has been widely promoted…
ADHD isn’t the problem—being misunderstood is
🧠✨ Steve Ollington explores how misunderstanding shapes the lives of people with ADHD—from school to retirement. 🚀 Despite their strengths, many face barriers at work, in relationships, and beyond. The solution? Greater awareness, training, and willingness to learn as people with ADHD need your help to be better understood From childhood to retirement, one of the biggest challenges faced by people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the feeling of being misunderstood. This isn’t a minor inconvenience; it’s a…
6 surprising ways you might be infringing copyright at work
Are you and your team unknowingly infringing copyright? Discover and avoid the most common pitfalls Are you and your team at risk of copyright infringement? Discover why it’s easy to infringe copyright at work inadvertently. Plus, why upskilling your team is a solid strategic move to avoid infringing on copyright at work. A 2024 survey conducted by Savanta, commissioned by the Copyright Licensing Agency (CLA), found that: This certainly is worth considering for UK organisations who champion responsible business and…
Behind the scenes of planning a new learning event: The emotional rollercoaster is real
Kirsty Lewis has a meltdown about the numbers for her facilitation festival, despite amazing plans Well we have made it to March 1st and that date is exactly 100 days until the start of SOFest 2025. My name is Kirsty Lewis, and in June 2024 I decided to create a festival for facilitators, trainers, coaches and consultants because there isn’t an event where we can come together to connect, learn and restore. TJ has given me the opportunity to share…
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