Upskill Paradox – GPS Leadership – Bite-Sized Learning
In the ever-evolving business world, companies face the challenge of keeping up with the latest trends and technologies. One way to keep informed is through upskilling employees. However, this process is not as simple as it may seem. It requires a shift in perspective and a willingness to change, which can be difficult for established companies to adopt. We will explore the concept of the invisible curriculum, GPS leadership, and how small creative learning moments can lead to better employee retention and a positive company culture. Remember, “a change in perspective always precedes a change in attitude or behavior.”
The Invisible Curriculum and Soft Skills
The invisible curriculum refers to the informal learning experiences that employees gain through their daily interactions and experiences in the workplace. These experiences help develop soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability and even gratitude, which are essential for success in today’s workforce.
GPS Leadership vs. Sage on Stage Leadership
Traditional leadership models, such as the SOS “sage on stage” approach, rely on a top-down, authoritative style where leaders dictate, and employees follow. While there is absolutely a time for this kind of leadership, specifically when the timeline associated with an event is short, In GPS leadership “Guide Positioned by the Side” by contrast , is a more collaborative, supportive, and empowering approach, where leaders guide employees and support their growth and development and is producing much better results and engagement with all employees and in particular, Gen Z.
The Benefits of Bite-Sized Learning and Creative Learning Moments
Incorporating small creative learning moments, or bite-sized projects, into the workplace not only leads to better skill retention but also helps build a positive company culture. This requires a deliberate approach and is usually not specifically related to their core role. By providing employees with opportunities to learn and grow in a supportive environment, businesses can foster a sense of belonging and pride in their work.
Gen Z and Next-Gen Leadership
Gen Z, the generation following Millennials, is entering the workforce in large numbers. As digital natives, they bring unique skills and expectations to the workplace. To effectively engage and retain this new generation, companies must adapt their leadership styles and embrace cross-generational collaboration.
Here are some practical ways to upskill your employees and create a future-ready business:
Microlearning: Break down complex training materials into short, easily digestible modules that employees can access on-demand.
Cross-departmental projects: Encourage collaboration and learning by assigning employees to work on projects with team members from other departments.
Gamification: Incorporate gaming elements, such as points, badges, and leaderboards, into your training programs to make learning more engaging, fun and even competitive.
Peer-to-peer mentoring: Pair employees with mentors from different departments to facilitate knowledge sharing and skill development.
Adopting GPS leadership and implementing creative learning moments are key to becoming a future-ready business. These strategies not only help employees develop crucial skills but also foster a positive company culture, which is especially important for retaining Gen Z employees which in turn amplifies recruitment efforts. Investing in your employees’ growth and development is an investment in your company’s future.
