Examine Your Beliefs As A Learning Professional
Creating a vibrant, modern learning culture is a process, but outdated learner beliefs can be a huge setback. Step one of that process is to step back and examine the status quo. Are there beliefs or practices that keep you stuck in a prior time period or in old ways of doing things? Those could potentially hinder your progress, so take a little time to look at your current processes and honestly assess if you think they could be improved or replaced. No profession or function is immune from stagnation.
We all need to regularly question our foundational beliefs to see things from a refreshed perspective. Knowing what works and repeating it is fine and good. No one would ask you to needlessly upset the apple cart; however, there’s always room to grow and evolve, and the reality is that new action stems from new thinking. Before we talk about the things you should do to create a modern learning environment, let’s discuss what not to do.
If You Build It, They Will Come
This outdated learner belief worked wonders on the big screen, but things are not so dreamy in the real world. For the rest of us, we have to get others in the organization to see the value of learning. The stark truth is that nothing sells itself.
Consider the fact that the advertising industry in the US alone tops 200 billion dollars a year. That’s pretty telling evidence that people need to be convinced to buy even the best products. Simply put, eyeballs must be earned. So must time and commitment, so start somewhere and begin to plan how you can better align with learners, management, and execs. Sell your story—with honesty and authenticity—and identify allies who want to resell it for you. Move some minds and your work will get easier. Also, remember, there’s a reason that you see the same commercials over and over. Most messages require repetition to finally take hold, so don’t give up after your first couple attempts!
The LMS Is Your Training Vending Machine
This is a very persistent outdated learned belief. Technology should be leveraged not just to serve up required courses, but also to help you streamline your processes and create an environment that brings learners together and facilitates their professional improvement. Use your learning programs to provide opportunities and develop skills, even outside of someone’s existing role. Nurture your people to expand. A key part of creating this culture is also to recognize achievement and request feedback. Let’s do away with the vending machine mentality and begin to reframe learning relationships as two-way streets—or even better, as multidirectional, social conversations.
Set It And Forget It
This outdated learner belief can be extremely dangerous to your career and organization. L&D is not the type of role where you launch a project, cross your fingers, and walk away. Instead, you need to repeatedly create momentum and then work to maintain it. It’s true that many of the administrative functions within the LMS can be automated, such as assigning courses and setting reminders, but to keep the engagement rolling, it takes a bit of effort.
One way to create ongoing engagement and excitement is to identify new leaders and involve them. Consider asking them to suggest new courses or even lead a training session. Don’t be afraid to include other people in your learning campaigns (Yes, campaigns. Remember, nothing sells itself.). You may be surprised at how momentum can swell simply by shifting to a community mindset. Time to throw off the cloak of the lone wolf. People naturally like to be a part of something, so use that collective energy to generate participation and commitment.
In Conclusion
Download the eBook Beyond Buzzwords: A Three-Step Guide To Simplify Modern Learning and learn more about how to leave outdated learner beliefs behind you and fully embrace modern learning.