In the 2017 Workplace Learning Report by LinkedIn, we are given an overview of corporate learning and development (L&D) trends in 2017, as well as the challenges many L&D professionals face when developing and delivering content.  While there is a wealth of useful and relevant information in the report, I am going to focus my blog this week on one section in particular - how to deliver learning that meets the expectations of modern learners.

Reaching today's learners can be a challenge.  More companies are allowing employees to work remotely, and others are trying to manage the learning of employees that are spread throughout the country or even the globe.  Today's workforce is not satisfied with standard, pre-crafted out-of-the-box training programs that are not specifically catered to company needs.  Companies today need to be creative, and, as discussed in the report, "create and facilitate modern learning experiences - not just one-off learning programs."  These experiences do not have to be elaborate, they can take the form of short, informative videos, an informal discussion with a peer or mentor, or even, according to the report, "making a mistake and acknowledging the 'Aha!' moment."

These modern learning experiences should have one goal in mind, and that is to change behaviors.  Most of our behaviors have become our habits, and in the workplace, these habits include how we communicate with others, how we use technology, and, if in a leadership role, how we manage direct reports.  The report talks about how L&D professionals must "get crisp on what the habit is you want to instill in your learners."  One of LinkedIn's Learning Authors quoted in the report, Dr. Todd Dewett, talks about how difficult changing behaviors can be for learners: "You're not just implementing a new learning tool or delivering a course.  You also need to be able to help employees manage the mental process of understanding change."

Companies that want to attract and retain top talent will need to find ways to meet these learning needs.  They must develop content that is easily accessible while at the same time addresses key behavior changes.

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