Stepping into the shoes of a learning and development (L&D) leader involves not only cultivating the growth of others but also investing in one’s own continuous learning journey.
Below, Senior Executive L&D Think Tank members share insightful practices for how they prioritize their personal development amidst the demands of shaping organizational learning cultures. From embracing emerging trends to adopting innovative learning methodologies, these leaders exemplify how investing in oneself enhances leadership effectiveness. Explore the nuanced strategies that L&D leaders employ to stay at the forefront of their field and drive transformative change within their organizations.
1. Set Daily, Quarterly, and Annual Goals
Meredith Waters
Director of Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning for Climate and Nature
Palladium
On the daily, I allocate 30-60 minutes (or more) as discretionary time, blocking it off in my calendar. On the quarterly, I set the goal of three L&D events to learn, grow, share, and network. On the annual, I set a budget for courses and programs that I will take.
2. Build in Opportunities for Reflection Regularly
Kelly Woltornist
Head of Global Learning
Takeda Pharmaceuticals
I build in regular opportunities for personal reflection and colleague feedback for the work that I deliver to the business — both in day-to-day conversations as well as when I follow up and plan my next steps. These insights prompt me to continually explore new and better ways to improve my contributions.
3. Block Out Time for Activities That Focus on Your Growth
Anthony Stephan
US Chief Learning Officer
Deloitte
I have daily space blocked in my calendar for my own well-being, and space blocked for reading, listening, and engaging in things that focus on my own growth.
4. Schedule Time to Learn Something New
Maria Sardo
Sr. Director, Head of Global Learning
Sysco Corporation
I set an appointment on my calendar that I flex around to ensure I dedicate some time to learning something new. At the end of the week, I do a quick reflection to see what I did, how it went, and what I learned. Doing this allows me to lead by example.
5. Dedicate Time for Personal Growth
Roni Borri
Head of Learning, Development, and Performance
Abtran
I dedicate time in my calendar for my own growth. I can’t promise that I will always adhere to it, but I will try!
6. Manage Obstacles or Distractions
Rhonda Anderson
Head of Talent Development
Southern Research
As a busy L&D professional, I had to intentionally make learning a habit. I prioritize learning by scheduling the time on my calendar and managing obstacles and distractions that could get in the way. Being a continual learner is a nonnegotiable for me.
7. Focus on Learning New Approaches and Technologies
Jay Fortuna
VP of Learning and Organizational Development
GoHealth
I focus my energy on learning about new approaches and technologies through conferences, publications, and my peers.
8. Attend L&D Conferences
Janelle Armstrong
Sr. Director, Learning and Development
DaVita
I do my best to keep up with L&D articles. I also attend conferences with specialized focus areas in L&D.
9. Utilize Online Modules
Graham Peelle
Endeavor Strategic Consulting & Advancement
Managing Principal
I take specific leadership proprietary online modules, reading, writing, podcasts, and professional collaboration.
