Good learning leaders start by creating a strategy that outlines clear and compelling choices about where to play and what actions to take that all key stakeholders agree upon.
Easier said than done.
Done right, a successful strategic plan sets a learning and development function up to perform beyond just the sum of its parts. Without a clear direction, your training function may tactically achieve some short-term wins, but it will fail to garner the ongoing trust, support and results required to make a meaningful impact on your career, your company or your employee base.
We have learned from experience that there are many different ways to "skin the cat" - some work and some don't.
- At one professional services client that grew from 50 to 2,500 employees in two years across 5 countries, the executive team identified talent development as a strategic imperative for growth. The company then went on to build a world-class training function, deliver industry leading engagement and retention rates and successfully go public. Their approach worked.
- Conversely, at a fast growing high tech client, the challenge was that even though 87% of employees listed professional development as their #1 priority on a recent employee engagement survey, only 20% of the executive team agreed upon the value and strategic direction of their L&D function. Because of this, their learning results are inconsistent, top talent is leaving and their varied approach is not working.
We have learned that there are many different paths to creating a successful training function. In our experience, however, there are 5 main strategic approaches that differentiate one training function from another. One direction is not necessarily better than another, but you do need agreement on the direction to be successful.
Read About the 5 Core Training Function Strategies and Key Mistakes to Avoid for Each
About LSA Global
Founded in 1995, LSA Global is a leading performance consulting and training firm that helps high growth technology, services, and life-science companies create a competitive advantage by powerfully aligning their culture and talent with their strategy. Learn more about getting aligned
