SixT60 Training: The Purpose of Skills Development

Welcome to your weekly 60-second insight into optimising your Team, Tools, Training, Tactics, Traction, and (Cultural) Transformation!

Each week, we share videos, quotes, podcasts, questions, and articles with the aim to add value in 60 seconds or less!

This week: Training

Back in the early 90’s I remember my maths teacher telling us, “You won’t be walking around with a calculator in your pocket when you’re older...” Fast forward to today, not only do we have calculators in our pockets, but we also have the power of AI and limitless information at our fingertips. The rapid rise of AI and technology has transformed the way we work, and the pace of change shows no signs of slowing. That’s why investing in both technical and soft skills development is more important than ever - the skills we might need in the future probably don’t even exist yet. Who knew what a Prompt Engineer was 20 years ago?

By offering regular, structured training, you’re not just preparing your employees to handle their current roles better—you’re equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in a tech-driven future. This includes leadership opportunities and fostering a mindset for innovation. As technology continues to evolve, the most successful teams will be those that can adapt and lead through the changes.?

When hiring opportunities for growth and development are key factors in choosing where to work. By promoting a culture of continuous learning, your company sends a strong message to potential recruits: “We’re invested in your future.” This commitment can make your organisation more attractive to candidates who are eager to grow, knowing they’ll have access to ongoing training that will allow them to advance and thrive within your company.

Prioritising skill development goes beyond just enhancing individual performance—it has a profound impact on your overall workplace culture. When employees see that their growth is valued, they’re more motivated to contribute, knowing they’re part of a learning environment that empowers them to improve. This increased engagement not only boosts retention but also creates a more dynamic, innovative culture, where employees feel they have a stake in the company’s success.

Skill development done well, helps build a workforce that not only grows alongside the business but actively drives it forward.

Steps You Can Take Today

Set up a skills gap analysis within your team:? Identify the key competencies they’ll need for future projects and start planning training initiatives to close those gaps. Not only will this future-proof your business, but it will also show your employees that you’re investing in their long-term success.

Implement a Mentorship Program: Pair experienced employees with those looking to develop new skills. This encourages knowledge sharing, fosters collaboration, and helps cultivate future leaders from within your organisation.

Invest in External Learning Resources: Consider sponsoring employees to take online courses, attend workshops, or obtain certifications in key skill areas. This external learning boosts internal expertise and brings fresh insights back to the business.

Skills development isn’t just about improving day-to-day performance. It’s about creating a continuous learning culture that retains talent and drives your organisation’s long-term growth.