...Need L&D Help? Start Here First

 

....do your L&D metrics need a boost?

We try hard in Learning and Development. I mean, we really do! And we take great pride in the experiences we produce and provide, aiming to add value in everything we do. But sometimes the best laid plans of mice and men go awry and we don't get what we're looking for - ranging from lack of business results, poor ROI, minimal participation and more.

When tasked with evaluating our efforts, we tend to first look at ourselves - what did or didn't do that is causing the deficiency and then what we're doing to fix it. And sometimes we are the ones who need to adjust - but not always. I'd encourage you to try out these strategies to - at minimum - understand the source of concerns and - potentially - identify a quick or unforeseen solution that could turn things around with minimal effort on your part.

1. Understand the Root Cause - a mentor of mine once said most people like feedback, most people don't like getting feedback. It's hard - we take pride in what we do - but looking in the mirror is often essential to uncover blind spots and get the full story. Tools such as surveys, focus groups or 1:1's with business leaders can provide valuable insight as to what is causing problems. This could also potentially offer some solutions, such as hidden barriers or obstacles to learning and/or on the job performance that attending to could be the boost you need.

2. Engage and Integrate with the Business - the more learning is involved with your internal processes, the more likely it will boost your participation + Level 3 and 4 Kirkpatrick metrics. Example from our company - if you want to become an Advanced Jewelry or Watch Specialist, you MUST complete the training or you won't earn the premium commissions. With this in mind, our Advanced Specialist completion is near 100% - and also we see an 86% lift in key performance metrics when analyzing the population at-large. Building in "gates" that connect directly to the business will help make your experiences an integral part of ongoing development - and boost your metrics as well.

3. Elevate Your Champions - even if overall metrics are hurting, dig deeper. Are there teams that have seen success? Or are there individuals who have benefitted from their experience and want to share? Use that opportunity to have them become de facto ambassadors for your programs - testimonials, guest appearances and recognition of these teams or individuals can go a long way towards building a high profile internally for both your learning as well as those individuals - a win-win that builds a lot of goodwill as well.

Long story short - before going back to the drawing board, check in with your business partners, you may be pleasantly surprised!

As always - thoughts or comments, add them in the comments - thanks! -Kevin