Transforming into a Trusted Learning Advisor with Dr. Keith Keating
As the field of Learning and Development (L&D) evolves, professionals must shift from being order takers to becoming strategic business allies. In a recent Talent Development Think Tank episode with host Andy Storch, guest Keith Keating shared invaluable insights on this transformation. Based on their conversation, here's a short guide to embarking on this critical journey.
Brand Your Initiatives
Name your projects thoughtfully to capture attention and respect. When senior stakeholders see the effort put into branding, they're more likely to take your initiatives seriously.
Leverage Credible Data
Support your discussions with data from reputable sources like the World Economic Forum and McKinsey Global Institute. This lends credibility to your ideas and decisions.
Invest in Career Development
Personal and team growth is crucial. Like Andy Storch suggests, seeking external validation and balancing it with internal resources can greatly enhance development strategies.
Build a Robust Toolkit
Keith Keating advises learning advisors to assemble a comprehensive toolkit and nurture vendor partnerships. This equips you to offer diverse and effective solutions.
Measure Impact
Constantly assess the effects of your L&D efforts. Though challenging, measurement is essential to demonstrate value and secure ongoing support and investment.
Embrace AI
AI is reshaping L&D. Familiarize yourself with AI tools to complement your work and stay ahead in your field. Tools like Chat GPT can handle some tasks, accentuating the need for L&D professionals to be more strategic.
Immerse Yourself in the Business
Really understand the business's goals and language. Anticipate your stakeholders' needs to provide proactive solutions rather than merely reacting to requests.
Start Your Own Table
Don't wait for an invitation to existing discussions. If you have value to add, initiate the conversation and set up your own platform for exchange.
Value Relationships
Develop relationships across departments, particularly with the CFO, outside of the budget season. This is key to being viewed as a trusted advisor rather than just a budget line item.
Stay the Course
Becoming a trusted learning advisor is an ongoing process. Focus on stakeholders' perceptions and work towards consistently being seen as a strategic partner. Keith Keating's journey and insights remind L&D professionals that evolution is not only about adopting new technology but also about fostering meaningful relationships and championing strategic value within the business. For more in-depth guidance, consider picking up his book, Becoming a Trusted Learning Advisor.
Be sure to listen to the full episode on the Talent Development Think Tank Podcast!
Dr. Keith Keating serves as a Chief Learning and Talent Officer, collaborating with numerous Fortune 500 companies worldwide. He is the author of the groundbreaking L&D practitioner's guide, 'The Trusted Learning Advisor.' A respected industry author and sought-after keynote speaker, Dr. Keating ardently champions lifelong learning as the pathway to seizing control of one’s career trajectory. He is also an advocate for talent development and leverages his platform to emphasize human talent as the cornerstone of organizational success. He resides in Toronto.
Listen to the podcast episode here:
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