Create a Culture of Learning with In-Demand Skills

If you have access to the internet, you may feel like bad economic news is everywhere. But there are leading organizations with skills-first, people-centric strategies that experience accelerated growth, increased productivity, and rising levels of employee engagement even in uncertain times.

How do they do it?

The most successful organizations combine agile workforces and people-centric management practices to craft a culture of learning that focuses on the most in-demand skills.

• Agile workforces quickly adapt to new technologies, processes, and practices. They are staffed with inspired self-leaders who are flexible and responsive to changing business needs. Workers feel empowered to raise their hands and ask for additional skill-based training to add value. Also, companies with agile teams create accessible and inclusive pathways that foster a culture of continuous learning.
• People-centric practices improve employee development and well-being to increase trust, job satisfaction, and commitment. And organizations are taking note. According to LinkedIn Learning’s 2023 Workplace Learning Report, 83% of organizations globally want to build a more people-centric culture. And 81% of L&D departments are helping do just that. Organizations with the highest levels of trust don't see learning and development as an extra task on top of job duties. As a result, workers are excited to take the leap and make individual career decisions.

How does a culture of learning help companies thrive?

Thriving in today's ambiguous business environment takes the right mix of mindset and strategies. Here are some fundamental ways to create an agile framework where people are productive, efficient, motivated, and engaged:

• Invest in employee training and development programs focused on the most in-demand skills. Examples can include technical skills — such as data analysis, financial reporting, or even software development. Also, organizations can reinforce people skills like communication, leading and motivating people with different personalities, or leading with vision. To get started, download this year’s Workplace Learning Report to see a list of the most in-demand skills based on function.
• Give employees a “why” for learning. The Workplace Learning Report found that the most common reason employees want to learn is to get closer to their career goals. If companies create on-demand learning opportunities tied to career outcomes, employees will be more motivated to take ownership of their development and their work. And since employees are more likely to stay long-term, organizations will benefit.
• Remember that your managers are employees, too. Leaders need a positive work environment and access to training and development programs. They also deserve mentorship opportunities, performance feedback, and recognition to accomplish organizational and personal goals.

It's possible to establish a climate for success and long-term sustainability by investing in the most in-demand skills. Follow the best practices of leading companies by doubling down on employee training and development programs to make your organization more resilient, agile, and people-centric in all economic climates — good or bad.

Laurie Ruettimann is a writer, speaker, and entrepreneur. She creates popular LinkedIn Learning courses on management, leadership, and personal accountability. Her courses can be found here.