Friday espresso: What Does The Future of Training Look Like?

Aug 30, 2024 1:01 am

Rise and Shine!

Let's brew our espresso for an insightful shot!

What Does The Future of Training Look Like?

As trainers, we often find ourselves in ever-changing environments, from traditional hotel conference rooms to modern co-working spaces, and now even virtual spaces, or hybrid learning. Just the other day, I was at Imazium, and I couldn’t help but marvel at how they’ve reimagined training spaces for the modern age. Everyone was sitting in Row 1 this time—no back row distractions! It made me reflect on our profession and the shifts we’ve seen in our methods.

We trainers are fortunate to experience diverse venues and meet new people regularly, keeping our work fresh and exciting. And, we have witnessed how the external environment changed rapidly these few years.

It raises an important question for us as trainers or leaders to ponder: As our external environment has changed, what about us? Have we changed the way we train or lead?

WHY Adaptability Matters for Leaders

Requests serve as bridges connecting individuals' needs and fostering mutual understanding. For instance, if a team member requires additional training to excel in their role, articulating this request allows for proactive support and development.

The workforce is evolving, and so are the needs of the next generation. Leading in a multigenerational workplace is now one of the critical challenges in our day-to-day working environment. While our tried-and-true leadership methods may have been effective in the past, today's workforce mix is distinctly different.

When we hear phrases like "You don't understand us," or notice team members who only respond to top-down instructions, it's a signal that we might be missing something crucial in this era. Adapting doesn't mean that our past leadership approaches were wrong; it simply means there are new options that better fit the current context.

In today's dynamic environment, adaptability is not just a desirable trait—it's essential. Leaders who can adjust their strategies and communication styles to meet the diverse needs of their teams will foster a more inclusive and productive workplace. Embracing adaptability allows leaders to harness the strengths of a multigenerational workforce, ensuring that everyone feels understood and valued.

WHAT Does It Mean To Evolve?

Evolving as a leader means moving beyond a "one-size-fits-all" approach. It involves being flexible and adaptable to meet the diverse needs of your team and the ever-changing work landscape. To truly evolve, leaders must understand the needs and motivations of all generations by asking key questions, such as:

Who are their role models?
What are their values?
How do they work?
Where do they want to work?
Why do they work?

By exploring these questions, leaders can better align their strategies with the unique dynamics of their teams

HOW We Can Make These Changes

Challenge Old Habits: If you've been the one chairing meetings for ages, consider letting someone else take the lead. If your go-to recognition is a simple "good job," try varying your script. If you've been working late hours, maybe today is the day to have a drink with your team right after work.
Be Responsive to Change: Be ready to pivot your approach based on feedback or changing circumstances. If a particular method isn’t resonating with your team, don’t hesitate to switch gears and try something new. The direction remains the same, but there are many paths to get there.
Embrace Imperfection: If a new approach doesn’t work out, give yourself a pat on the shoulder, smile, and try another strategy. Being a leader doesn’t mean you have to be perfect in everything you do. Let go of the perfect leader mindset!

Interested in how a ONE ROW ONLY classroom looks like? Check out my recent LinkedIn post here and connect with me if you haven’t! https://www.linkedin.com/posts/koolily_leadchangeheartway-insideoutwithlily-bigchangesmallsteps-activity-7232189738999242753-QJwJ?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

That is today's espresso.

Keep the momentum, every sip counts!

Stay caffeinated & curious!

Koo Lily

l Founder of mq Training Coaching Consulting l

Leadership Coach l Change Facilitator l Speaker l

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