The L&D Edit | November 2023 | Edition #18

Hi VTT'ers ??

Ever wondered about the surprising connection between the success of the Mac computer and a calligraphy class? In this month's blog, we're unravelling the magic that happens when creativity meets science, exploring how integrating arts into STEM education can supercharge innovation.?? Ready to break down barriers? Scroll down for a dose of inspiration!

But that's not all — we're also handing out a FREE ?? 'Shutdown Checklist' ?? to help you bid farewell to work stress and embrace a healthier work-life balance.

Plus, dive into the dynamic world of ?? forensic coaching, revolutionising traditional coaching methods for a workplace that thrives on connection, trust, and clear goals.

And because we know you're busy, we've cherry-picked 3?? must-reads for you, summarising the key takeaways from articles on preventing learned helplessness, embedding a principles-based wellbeing strategy, and keeping your team motivated when projects hit a snag.

Ready to level up your L&D game? Dive into the details now!

?? Read: STEM education — The influence of the arts and what organisations can learn from it.

Do you know that the success of the Macintosh computer may have come down to Steve Jobs' attendance at a calligraphy class?

In our latest blog, we're exploring the power of combining creativity with scientific disciplines for greater innovation.

As schools worldwide embrace the fusion of arts into STEM curricula, we uncover the invaluable benefits that this convergence brings to the table. From enhanced problem-solving to fostering engagement within your teams, we dissect the fascinating relationship between seemingly disparate fields.

?Ready to break down the barriers between science and art? Click to read more and unlock a world of possibilities for your team.

?? FREE resource: Shutdown checklist

Say goodbye to work stress and embrace a healthier work-life balance with our latest free resource – the ?? 'Shutdown checklist'??

Shutting down isn't just about leaving your desk, it's a crucial step towards preventing burnout and enhancing your wellbeing. Our checklist breaks down the process into simple, actionable steps, making it easy for you to create your own end-of-day ritual.

? Download your FREE copy now and take the first step toward achieving a better work-life balance.

?? Read: Forensic coaching — developing the workforce of today

Ready to revolutionise your approach to coaching? Discover the transformative power of forensic coaching — a dynamic shift from traditional methods.

In a world craving efficiency, forensic coaching redefines the game with outcome-focused dialogues, consistent catch-ups replacing annual reviews, and a refreshing informality that sparks genuine connections. Trust is the foundation, transparency is the norm, and goals are crystal clear.

?Want to learn more about these new forensic coaching skills? Read the full blog 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?? Are your managers unwittingly promoting learned helplessness?

• Organisations should create an environment where team members feel empowered and self-assured, if not they risk fostering learned helplessness, impeding team growth and productivity.
• Managers need to be cautious not to create a power imbalance, where team members overly rely on them for guidance. This dependence can erode team confidence in decision-making, taking initiative and accountability.
• Managers should recognise the impact of their leadership style on employee confidence, as they play a crucial role in reducing reliance on external validation and fostering self-confidence.
• Managers should promote a culture of recognition beyond managerial validation, use coaching questions to develop their professional judgment, and set clear expectations upfront to empower individuals to evaluate their own progress and outcomes.

?Read the full TrainingZone article?here.

2?? Embedding a principles-based wellbeing strategy

• Workplace sickness absence is at a 10-year high and wellbeing support for individuals at different life stages can be patchy.
• There's a legal, financial, and moral imperative for businesses to create a robust wellbeing strategy.
• It's important to gather as much data as possible and engage with employees to develop an informed approach to health and wellbeing that takes onboard life events and challenges that they may be facing.
• Ensure that line managers know where their roles start and finish. They should be equipped to have a wide range of wellbeing-based conversations with employees from depression, and menstrual health to alcoholism. However, they should also know when to 'refer on' to qualified professionals and they need to protect their own mental health.

?Listen to the full CIPD podcast?here.

3?? Keep your team motivated when a project goes off the rails

• Re-establish your project purpose, goals, and vision. Lack of clear goals contributes to 37% of project failures.
• Hold collaborative "state of the project" meetings to involve your team in troubleshooting and finding solutions. Remember to create psychological safety, encourage transparency, model a growth mindset, and avoid placing blame.
• Remove obstacles by reallocating resources, such as additional time, team members and budget, and providing role clarity for your team members.
• Recognise different motivators, including public recognition, financial incentives, and career development opportunities, and tailor your approach based on your individual team members' preferences.

?Read the full Harvard Business Review article?here.

We’re on a mission to spread our love for virtual training. 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,