We've read the books. We've bought the tools. But what is a culture of learning? Theory is studied, but culture is application. In order to reap the benefits of continuous learning, it must be engrained into our daily routine. 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their career development, and we know learning is a pillar of career engagement. To encourage growth on every level of our team, a culture of learning needs to be present in these key areas.
If leaders aren't demonstrating the value of learning, employees won't either. Leaders, in addition to employees, need to take advantage of learning opportunities just as often (if not more) than their staff. Learning from other thought leaders in the industry can provide connections, inspiration, and of course knowledge to take your business to the next level.
Whether it's strategized in a weekly schedule or in an employee's three-month plan, we need to physically make room for learning in our career. Once we have a certain skill or course in mind, block out a plan over the next few months so you can learn at a reasonable pace. Studies show writing something down increases the chance of us achieving a goal. Setting a time and date doesn't hurt, either!
Strive to make learning a core value of your organization. Then, stick those core values everywhere. Write them down, hang them on the walls, or frame them and put it on each employee's desk. We can go on about the application of core values in a business, but in short, learning as a core value helps leaders strategize and make critical organizational decisions. From the top down, core values keep key ideas present in day-to-day work.
When an employee does make time between client meetings, emails, and the daily grind to include learning opportunities, they should be rewarded! What's more, businesses should have a structured reward system, so employees know what to expect. Perhaps once thirty percent of the team has completed a training program, the office gets a lunch. At fifty percent, a corporate outing. At one hundred percent, a bonus. Creating a trail of breadcrumbs to motivate your team can do wonders.
Need we say more? Learning is rewarding in its own right. The next generation of employees believe professional development opportunities are one of the most important aspects of a company culture. It can inspire increased productivity and job satisfaction among current workers and create a stronger bond amongst your team. So, in addition to all the benefits, a culture of learning is just a fun one to work in.
Want to instill a culture of learning? Consultants at SDI can help you find the right content - whether it be digital learning or in-person programs - to meet your needs. Visit our website or give us a call to learn more.