Exploring Learning and Development with Industry Leaders
Chief Learning Officer’s “Learning Insights” series is dedicated to showcasing the thoughts and career journeys of chief learning officers and learning executives—the tireless trailblazers who are transforming the landscape of corporate learning and workforce development. In this Q&A series, we garner strategic insights, innovative approaches, and challenges overcome from visionary leaders worldwide.
Discovering the Passion for Learning and Development
What initially drew you to a career in learning and development, and how have your experiences evolved over the years?
The future-focused and positive nature of the learning and development field initially attracted me. It has evolved from being a standalone function to an integrated part of talent management, crucial for employee engagement and growth within organizations.
Driving Employee Development and Learning Culture
What key initiatives have you implemented as a learning leader to drive employee development and foster a learning culture?
As a learning leader, I have implemented various initiatives including mentoring programs, talent development programs, and digital learning programs to enhance employee growth and create a culture of continuous learning.
The Impact of Strategic Learning Programs
What is the most impactful learning program you’ve introduced in your organization, and how has it contributed to employee growth and business success?
The “CEO Club” program for high-potential employees has been incredibly successful, leading to significant promotions and contributions to organizational growth. The program has shown an ROI of 140%, proving its effectiveness in developing talent and driving business success.
Addressing Misconceptions and Building Skills
What is a common misconception people might have about the L&D function, and how do you address it?
Addressing the misconception that L&D is easy, I focus on showcasing the strategic skills involved, aligning development programs with business needs, and providing offerings based on business understanding and employee involvement.
Embracing the Future of Workplace Learning
What excites you the most about the future of workplace learning, and how are you preparing your organization to adapt to the changing landscape?
The use of technologies like Virtual Reality excites me, offering new ways to engage learners. Embracing such tools and modes of delivery, we are preparing our organization for a more dynamic and engaging learning environment.
Qualities of a Successful L&D Leader
What essential qualities or skills make a successful L&D leader, and how do you cultivate these traits in yourself and among your team?
An open-minded and curious approach, coupled with continuous learning, creative hobbies, and tech savviness are essential for successful L&D leadership. Cultivating these traits within oneself and the team is crucial for driving impactful learning initiatives.
Game-Changing Advice and Challenges
What game-changing advice would you offer your younger self, and what do you feel is currently the biggest challenge facing L&D professionals?
Proficiency in data and storytelling would be my advice to my younger self. The biggest challenge facing L&D professionals is the shrinking attention span of learners, requiring creative strategies to ensure deep engagement with learning initiatives.
Innovative Tools and Technologies
Share a work or learning tech product that has significantly improved your work processes and why you find it valuable.
Tools like Tableau and ACE by 365Talents have enhanced our people analytics and internal mobility efforts, providing valuable insights and opportunities for talent development within the organization.
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