Here's how you can learn new skills as an internal communicator while managing your workload.

Set clear learning objectives for each educational opportunity you pursue in internal communications. Define what you hope to learn or achieve, and outline specific actions or milestones to track your progress. Apply Learning in Real-Life Scenarios: Look for opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills you've acquired through continuing education in real-life scenarios at work. Seek out projects, initiatives, or challenges where you can practice and reinforce your learning.

I would say … Learning a skill shall not be just a wish…It must be supported by the knack you must posses…and a very focused approach

Identify the skills most relevant to your role and focus on them. Set aside dedicated time each week for learning, even if it's just 30 minutes a day. Make it a non-negotiable part of your schedule.

Actively seek opportunities for professional development and stay abreast of industry trends, communication strategies, and leadership best practices. This might involve attending workshops, and conferences, or pursuing further education in relevant fields. Explore a variety of learning resources and materials to enhance your knowledge and skills in internal communications. This may include books, articles, podcasts, webinars, online courses, or conferences focused on relevant topics.

Take advantage of the vast array of resources available. This includes online courses, webinars, podcasts, and industry blogs. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning offer tailored courses for internal communicators.

Implement what you learn in real-time. This not only reinforces your new skills but also demonstrates immediate value to your organization. For instance, if you learn about a new communication tool, start using it in your projects.

Take time to reflect on what you've learned and how you've applied it. Journaling or discussing with a mentor can provide valuable insights into your progress and areas for improvement.

Engage with your colleagues and the broader LinkedIn community. Sharing experiences and learning from others can provide new perspectives and solutions. Consider joining professional groups or forums related to internal communication.

Keep your curiosity alive by exploring new trends and technologies in the field. Attend industry conferences, follow thought leaders on social media, and subscribe to newsletters.

Learning new skills not only gives you a competitive edge, but it gives you longevity in your career field of choice. Try to block off 15 minute a day for micro-learnings and then put your learnings into action. Don't let the knowledge just rumble around in your head, make it a personal best practice.

I think networking with peers in various industries and companies is a great way to learn. It will teach you what other companies are doing with respect to their employee communications, their strategies, and challenges. You will also learn how your peers are handling their stakeholders, responding to workload, and delivering results. All this will lead to the kind of learning that you will not get in a classroom or books.