Developing a culture of learning in an organization requires a thorough understanding of its skill gaps and the range of skills that employees want to improve, including both hard and soft skills. A recent Pearson survey of 4,000 employees in the UK, US, India and Brazil found that employees expect equal emphasis on both interpersonal (soft) and technical (hard) skills.
Organizations are investing more in fostering interpersonal skills. Leaders and HR professionals are realizing the importance of soft skills such as emotional intelligence, creativity, collaboration and adaptability. These skills not only contribute to effective management but also help in problem-solving and project management. This shift is crucial, particularly in addressing the decline of social skills within the workforce due to the pandemic.
Why is a learning culture important, particularly language learning?
Language skills stand out as pivotal in developing interpersonal business skills. English language learning, in particular, serves as a catalyst for improved communication, bolstering employee confidence, engagement and networking, as well as personal and professional growth. Learning a new language can improve cognitive function, enhancing multitasking skills and creativity, making for a more skilled workforce.
Elevating English proficiency across an organization opens the door to international markets, yielding substantial bottom-line benefits. Clearer communication leads to smoother operations, minimized errors and enhanced productivity. One of our Pearson studies identifies some of these skills, such as communication, as a highly prized workforce skill, so it's easy to see the importance of learning in a workplace setting.
So, how can you or your organization help to address and encourage a learning culture?
Communication is key
It's about keeping the dialogue open. Celebrating successes and reflecting on progress during year-end performance management and appraisals while understanding employees' learning ambitions for the year ahead fosters collective buy-in and a sense of belonging. The outcomes of these discussions form the basis of a robust learning and development roadmap for future years.
Lead by example
Active leadership involvement is essential in promoting language learning within an organization. By participating in language classes or demonstrating the value of language skills through their interactions, leaders and managers can set an example for their employees. Their involvement can encourage others to follow suit, thereby emphasizing the organization's commitment to learning and development.
Measurable goals
Establishing measurable learning milestones not only bolsters the learning culture but also fuels employee motivation and continuous development, aiding leadership in producing management reports that showcase organizational progress.
Offer Incentives
Create incentives for employees to learn languages by offering rewards, recognition or certifications upon reaching proficiency milestones. Tie language learning to career advancement opportunities or salary increases to incentivize continuous growth.
Make it fun and accessible
For a thriving learning culture, make workplace learning accessible, enjoyable and interactive. Leveraging emerging technologies like AI and XR reshapes learning experiences, necessitating user-friendly tech-based learning methods over outdated training methodologies. If learning is easy to access, staff are much more likely to participate; no one likes operating an awkward, long-winded or old-fashioned system. It can take the fun and motivation out of learning.
Cultivating a culture of learning necessitates a proactive approach starting from the top. Offering a blend of hard and soft skills, including language learning, is pivotal for a successful learning culture, elevated employee engagement and fostering sustainable business growth.
Remember, the journey towards a thriving culture of learning is not just an investment in your employees; it's an investment in the future success of your business.
