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A 2015 workplace survey* discovered that 85 per cent of employees do not feel the training they are getting at work is preparing them for their next position.
Evolution in career management has put individuals, not employers, in control of their learning and development, and YES, of your own career. This shift brings great responsibility for employees and job hunters. The onus is on you to ask questions that will ensure you are receiving the training, learning and opportunities necessary to progress in your career.
Before you accept your next job offer, make sure you are landing a role with a company that will support you in reaching your career aspirations and goals by asking these three questions to evaluate its workplace learning culture:
Does your organization have a learning strategy?
Ask your interviewer to describe what workplace learning currently looks like. A smart organization understands the risks of not investing in employee training and will have a plan of action for employee development. A solid learning strategy identifies structured learning opportunities to promote continuous development for employees to advance in their roles. More than just onboarding and training, it should provide ongoing learning and skills development for technical and soft skills.
Is there a learning fund or tuition reimbursement program?
Many organizations are encouraging their employees to improve their skills, stay fresh, and unleash their potential through learning. Assess the organization’s support of ongoing learning. Do they provide funding for job related training? What about personal growth funds for pursuing passions and self-development?
Is there anyone on the team that I am joining currently enrolled in a course, or any courses you can recommend, that would help me to excel in my role?
Is your potential employer actually investing in employee development – or are they just paying lip service? Put them to the test by exploring what others in the organization have done to advance their skills and further knowledge in roles similar to yours. Gaining insight on current courses that are available online or in your city can help you start to plan the next steps and prevent stagnation in your role.
Not only will ensuring your organization is supporting your individual goals help your long-term career progress, your interest in taking initiative to drive the conversation around learning will help you shine in your interview. A strong culture of learning is one of the most important aspects to remain competitive in today’s business landscape, and a good employer will appreciate your interest in your career development.
*Saba Software/ WorkplaceTrends.com, Global Workforce Leadership Survey, 3/2015.
Learnkit creates competitive advantage for organizations through custom elearning that helps develop, engage and activate their people. Using their proven Learncycle pedagogy, Learnkit delivers interactive and enjoyable digital learning experiences that ensure organizations and individuals get better, everyday.
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