What are the most effective change management learning formats, and how can you choose the right ones?

2 Webinars and podcasts

Webinars and podcasts are another convenient and engaging way to learn about change management. They allow you to listen to experts, practitioners, and influencers share their insights, experiences, and tips on various aspects of change management. You can also interact with them and other participants through live or recorded sessions, chat, or social media. Webinars and podcasts can help you stay updated, inspired, and motivated, as well as learn from real-world examples and best practices. However, webinars and podcasts also have some drawbacks, such as limited depth, quality, and relevance. To make the most of webinars and podcasts, you should look for ones that are relevant, credible, and informative, as well as follow up with further research, reflection, and action.

3 Books and articles

Books and articles are classic and reliable sources of learning about change management. They provide comprehensive, in-depth, and authoritative information, analysis, and guidance on various topics, models, frameworks, and methods of change management. You can find books and articles on change management from renowned authors, scholars, and practitioners, such as John Kotter, Jeff Hiatt, Peter Senge, and more. Books and articles can help you build a solid theoretical foundation, explore different perspectives, and apply proven principles and practices. However, books and articles also have some challenges, such as availability, currency, and readability. To make the most of books and articles, you should look for ones that are relevant, reputable, and readable, as well as take notes, summarize, and review.

4 Coaching and mentoring

Coaching and mentoring are personalized and effective ways to learn about change management. They involve working with a coach or a mentor who has expertise, experience, and skills in change management, and who can provide you with individualized support, feedback, and guidance. You can find coaches and mentors on change management from professional networks, associations, or platforms, such as the Association of Change Management Professionals, the International Coach Federation, or CoachHub. Coaching and mentoring can help you identify your strengths, weaknesses, and goals, as well as develop your confidence, competence, and performance in change management. However, coaching and mentoring also have some costs, such as time, money, and commitment. To make the most of coaching and mentoring, you should look for ones that match your needs, expectations, and preferences, as well as establish a clear agreement, rapport, and plan.

5 Workshops and simulations

Workshops and simulations are interactive and experiential ways to learn about change management. They involve participating in group activities, exercises, and scenarios that simulate real or hypothetical change situations, challenges, and outcomes. You can find workshops and simulations on change management from various providers, facilitators, or consultants, such as Change Management Institute, Prosci, or ChangeQuest. Workshops and simulations can help you practice your change management skills, learn from your mistakes, and receive feedback from others. They can also help you develop your creativity, collaboration, and communication skills. However, workshops and simulations also have some limitations, such as availability, scalability, and transferability. To make the most of workshops and simulations, you should look for ones that are relevant, engaging, and realistic, as well as prepare, participate, and reflect.