Learning and Development: What We’ve Learned in 2017

As 2017 comes to a close, we're taking the opportunity to reflect on the lessons learned and insight gained over this year. In May, we were proud to be a part of ATD’s annual convention. Participants shared their challenges and concerns surrounding onboarding programs, learning and development outcomes, and leadership development. Our advice has always centered around maintaining engagement and driving targeted learning outcomes. Our discovery learning methodology is based around games and simulations.

Speaking of games… We’re proud to share that, for the third year in a row, Training Industry has named Paradigm Learning as one of the Top 20 Gamification Companies. We’re honored to be recognized for helping organizations play the way smart companies play.

On the heels of this news, here’s a quick rundown what we learned in 2017:

1. Onboarding is Easy

From Forbes to SHRM, everyone agrees – onboarding is important! This can’t be overstated. Welcoming new hires with a socially engaging program, that focuses on culture, mission and values, makes a lasting impression. Structured onboarding equips employees with the tools and knowledge to be happier, be more productive and stay with organization longer. Our onboarding infographic gives you stats behind these assertions.

2. Strategic Alignment is Hard

Whether facing rapid growth, a merger and/or acquisition, or a change in strategy, getting everyone on the same page isn’t easy. My blog on strategic alignment breaks down this concept into three, easy to digest steps. In short, delivering a clear, cascading message throughout an organization is as challenging as it is important. 

3. Business Acumen is Key

An employee’s ability to understand how their organization moves and makes money remains one of the most desirable skillsets. Put simply, if an employee doesn’t fully comprehend the financial and organizational impact of his/her decisions, how can they make good choices? Our Business Acumen Anecdotes eBook does a great job of explaining how business acumen impacts an organization, on every level.

Although each of these areas deserves a healthy amount of learning and development attention, focusing on the area that needs the most improvement is bound to yield the greatest gains. For more guidance on assessing your training needs, schedule a 15-minute appointment.