What do you do if you're an HR professional trying to learn new skills while managing your workload?

1 Prioritize Learning

When you're swamped with tasks, it can be tempting to put off skill development for another day. However, prioritizing learning is crucial for your growth. Start by identifying the skills that will most impact your role and set clear goals for acquiring them. Allocate specific times in your week for focused learning, whether it's an hour each morning or a dedicated day. This approach ensures that learning becomes a non-negotiable part of your schedule, rather than an afterthought.

2 Leverage Technology

In today's digital age, technology is your ally in learning new skills. Many online platforms offer courses tailored for HR professionals that you can access on-demand. This means you can learn at your own pace and fit sessions around your workload. Additionally, mobile apps can facilitate microlearning—short, focused lessons that you can engage with during breaks or commutes. By leveraging technology, you can make skill acquisition more flexible and integrated into your daily life.

3 Collaborate with Peers

Learning doesn't have to be a solitary journey. Collaborating with peers can provide mutual support and insights that enhance the learning experience. Consider forming a study group with colleagues who are also looking to develop their skills. You can share resources, discuss concepts, and apply what you learn through role-playing scenarios. This shared commitment can also help keep you accountable and motivated to continue learning despite a busy schedule.

4 Apply As You Learn

One of the best ways to reinforce new knowledge is by applying it to real-world situations as you learn. Look for opportunities within your current role to implement new strategies or tools. This not only helps solidify your understanding but also demonstrates the value of your learning to your organization. By integrating new skills into your workflow, you make the learning process more relevant and practical.

5 Seek Support

Don't underestimate the value of seeking support from your superiors or HR department. They may offer resources or adjustments to your workload to facilitate your skill development. Communicate your learning goals and how they align with the organization's objectives. If possible, propose a learning plan that outlines how you intend to manage your responsibilities alongside skill acquisition. Support from leadership can be instrumental in successfully balancing your workload with your professional development.

6 Reflect Regularly

Regular reflection on your learning journey is essential. Take time to assess what's working and what isn't, and adjust your approach accordingly. Reflect on how the new skills are impacting your performance and where further improvement is needed. This ongoing evaluation not only helps you stay on track with your learning objectives but also ensures that your efforts are translating into tangible benefits for your career and organization.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?