The L&D Edit | May 2024 | Edition #24

Hi there VTT'ers ??,

Welcome to another exciting edition packed with insights to empower your workforce!

In this issue, we're:

? Exploring workplace dynamics.

? Sharing free resources from Learning at Work Week.

? Revealing how you can boost the attendance and effectiveness of your training.

? Inviting you to participate in our Gen Z research project (with the chance to win 1 of 6 prizes! ??)

? Uncovering the latest trends in L&D — including the highlights from the latest LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report.

Get ready for an informative journey that will help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of workplace learning!

?? Read: Should we draw a line under politics at work?

Navigating workplace politics can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. In our latest article, we explore whether prohibiting political discussion at work is feasible, necessary, or in fact damaging. Dive into this thought-provoking piece to uncover strategies for maintaining a harmonious work environment while acknowledging the realities of organisational dynamics in our increasingly socially conscious workforce.

? Read the full article here.

?? Watch: How to boost attendance and effectiveness of learning events with Microlearning

In this recording from this month's 7taps Microlearning Conference, I dive into the world of microlearning and its impact on L&D. I also share examples and practical strategies to effectively engage participants at every stage of the training process: before, during, and after the session.

?Hit play now!

?? Calling all L&D leaders: Shape the future by joining our Gen Z research project!

Are you ready to decode the needs and aspirations of Gen Z to shape the future of learning and development?

Join us in our groundbreaking Gen Z research project! By participating, you'll gain valuable insights into the learning preferences and expectations of this new generation of employees, empowering you to craft tailored training solutions that drive organisational success. PLUS, you'll receive a complimentary copy of our research report AND be in with a chance of winning 1 of 6? Amazon gift cards! ??

?Get involved here.

?? Watch: Our Learning at Work Week playlist

Access our key takeaways from Learning at Work Week with our specially curated playlist!

From how to develop a growth learning mindset to networking skills, this playlist is a bite-sized way to enhance workplace learning and development in your organisation!

? Check out the playlist here.

?? 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?? LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report 2024

• 80% of people want to learn more about how to use AI in their profession.
• Companies with a strong learning culture have a 57% increase in their rate of employee retention compared to those who don’t.
• 80% of people say learning adds a sense of purpose to their work.
• The top motivator for people to learn is if it helps people make progress towards their career goals.

?Read the full LinkedIn report here.

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2?? Communicating the value of L&D

• Define value as benefits minus cost.
• Design interventions based on performance needs.
• Identify relevant measures of efficiency and effectiveness for different audiences.
• Assess impact by focusing on visible and measurable performance improvement, not test scores.

?Read the full TrainingZone article here.

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3?? Your team members aren’t participating in meetings. Here’s what to do.?

• Seek to understand your team’s power dynamics and recognise how they may impact meeting participation.
• Conduct 1:1 meetings to understand individual concerns and encourage participation.
• Communicate your desired behaviours to your team, model them, and recognise and celebrate them when they’re demonstrated.
• Optimise your meeting structure by avoiding and handling distractions, providing clear agendas, and rotating facilitation to empower team members to speak up.

?Read the full Harvard Business Review 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