Interview with Patrik L?gdqvist, our new Learning Lead at Sigma Technology Information

Career Path and Professional Background

Can you tell me a bit about your professional background and how you got started in Learning and Development?

Certainly! I studied in Stockholm to become an art director but never pursued that path. I worked in multimedia and website development before becoming a teacher, which I enjoyed immensely. However, public schools didn't quite suit me, so I started my own company. I worked with it as a tutor and learning & change provider. About ten years ago I started working as a professional consultant in the role of senior learning specialist. Now, I'm excited to be here as a Learning Lead.

The Concept of Learning and Change (L&C)

You use the term "learning and change." Can you explain what it means and why you prefer it?

I believe "learning and change" is more accurate and value-adding than "learning and development." Change is broader and evokes curiosity and expectancy, which are crucial for effective learning. It emphasizes that learning is an ongoing process, essential for personal and organizational growth. Besides changes in learning, I also provide a change in attitude. It is appealing and valuable to businesses.

Impactful Projects and Strategies

Can you describe a project where your work had a significant impact on a client's business?

One project that stands out was with a Gothenburg-based automotive company. We developed a gamified training course for their vehicle handover process. Employees enjoyed how the course helped them understand the importance of a well-planned and executed handover to a proud owner of a new truck.

Another project I am proud of was with the client in inspection and certification. We took extensive, overloaded classroom material and turned it into a more direct and relevant digital learning experience. Eventually, this training material served as a go-to Wiki supporting inspection engineers in their fast-paced and ever-changing reality. I am really happy with the job I did there.

Transition to Our Company

What attracted you to join Sigma, and how has your experience been so far?

Very positive first impressions. I see that you want new things, and you go for them. You acknowledge that the world is changing, the clients are changing, and you are willing to adapt. I was also amazed by the warm welcome I received, which was fantastic. At the risk of sounding cheesy, I felt at home immediately.

Building Client Relationships

How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with clients?

I always, 100% of the time, consider us partners. We are not deliverers or service personnel – we must be leveled to achieve results. Mutual respect, transparency, and honesty are key. I always strive to provide tailor-made, value-adding solutions that address their specific needs. And I also like to be Patrik when I speak to the client. I say my piece, I challenge their opinions and question their truths. Not for the challenge itself, but to have them think from another perspective. After all, they hire us to do things they can't do themselves.

Passion and Motivation

What initially attracted you to the field of learning and change? What drives your passion for this work?

I am passionate about learning because I love seeing people grow and become better versions of themselves. Learning and change have traditionally been viewed as costs within the corporate world, but they are not. Learning and change should be seen as investments. My goal is to shift this perspective and highlight the true value of learning. I aim to make learning experiences relevant, engaging, and efficient. Ultimately, it's about empowering individuals and organizations to evolve and thrive.

Personal Insights

Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests that you’re passionate about, and how do they influence your professional life?

I'm passionate about modern culture, reading, and movies. I also enjoy board games and gardening. This helps me stay creative and think outside the box, which is essential in developing innovative learning solutions.

Interviewer: Margarita Iashchina