The L&D Edit | January 2024 | Edition #20

Hello again VTT'ers ??

Welcome to our January newsletter! ?? Ready for a stellar 2024?

?? Our latest blog has the top 5 tips to turn your goals into triumphs.

?? Master time management with 3 quick tips in our video. Boost productivity, reduce stress, and get things done.

?? Unleash the power of your calendar! Read our essential guide for a productive and balanced 2024.

?? Short on time? Check our handpicked articles for quick L&D insights. From resolutions for managers to HR trends, stay inspired!

? Read, watch, and rock 2024! ??

?? Read: Achieving goals: From goal setting to goal getting

As the new year unfolds, it's time to turn your aspirations into actionable steps. Heard of SMART goals but are unsure how to bridge the gap between setting and achieving? Look no further! In our latest blog, we've curated the top five tips to guide you toward success. From breaking down goals into manageable steps to celebrating every small triumph, we've got you covered.

Discover the power of involving others, holding yourself accountable, and embracing the journey, even when faced with challenges. So in 2024 don't just set resolutions — accomplish them!

?Read our blog now for a transformative start to the year!

?? Watch: 3 top tips for managing your time

How can I better manage my time? It’s a question we hear ALL the time. Wish you could do better? Well, here are my 3 top tips for managing your time effectively. After all, when we develop good time management strategies, we're more productive, and feel less stressed — something we all want to achieve.

?Watch this short video now to learn more.

?? Read: Calendar management: The essential guide

Struggling to stay ahead of your tasks? Our latest blog unveils the power of efficient calendar management, turning your schedule into a productivity powerhouse. Learn the art of selecting and setting up your calendar for success, from identifying 'life buckets' to creating swim lanes.

Dive into the world of recurring events, deep focus sessions, and strategic breaks. Make 2024 your most productive year yet.

?Read now and transform your calendar into a tool for a well-rounded, balanced life.

?? Read: up on all the latest L&D insights

Do you find that there are so many interesting articles, features and blogs out there there's just not enough time to read them all? ?? Don't worry! We’ve picked 3 of our favourite articles this month and summarised the highlights, facts, and top takeaways. You can read them all below!

1?? Top ten New Year’s resolutions for managers

• Embody attitudes and behaviours such as respect, purpose, inclusion, and empathy to set a positive tone for your team and improve company culture.
• Trust your team and delegate responsibilities to free up your time, allowing you to focus on your work and build confidence in your team's abilities.
• Actively listen to your colleagues, as they can provide valuable insights for business improvements. Responding to feedback demonstrates that you value their input.
• Embrace flexible working. Recognise the demand for trust, flexibility, and work-life balance among employees.

?Read the full TrainingZone article here.

2?? Top nine trends for HR leaders in 2024

• A shift towards routine 4-day work weeks is anticipated this year, providing employers with a strategy to engage and retain their talent with this competitive advantage.
• DE&I will become more integrated into daily operations, while employees, especially Gen Z, may demand climate change protection as an employee benefit, aligning with ESG values.
• Effective conflict resolution is now a crucial skill for managers. Managers adept at navigating interpersonal conflicts can significantly benefit their organisations.
• Traditional career paths are expected to collapse further, with employees taking mid-career breaks, shifts, or opting for reduced hours. Employers are urged to adapt by offering job sharing, gig work, or flexibility, regardless of tenure.

?Read all 9 predicted Gartner trends here.

3?? Learning at work: junior employees at a disadvantage compared to senior colleagues

• Junior staff have limited learning opportunities, with only 37% having a choice in their training conditions compared to 88% of owners and c-suite execs.
• 42% of owners and C-suite executives received more training than the previous year, compared to 17% of intermediate or entry-level workers.
• Business leaders view training as more enjoyable and inspiring, while 42% of junior staff find it boring and unengaging, leading to the perception that workplace L&D has become "death by PowerPoint."
• AI and automation's impact on jobs makes skill development crucial for all employees, regardless of seniority.

?Read the full People Management magazine article here.

We’re on a mission to spread our love for learning. We’re sharing resources, tips, experiences and insights with anyone in L&D (and those not in L&D are welcome too of course!) curious enough to want to learn more. Stay up to date and receive notifications when our new L&D Edit is released, subscribe here. To explore the world of training and resources The virtual training team can offer check out our website.

See you next month!

Best wishes,

Catherine Nicholson,

Creative director, The virtual training team