Many believe that the learning journey comes to an end once a person is established as a leader in a profession. No more exams, homework, assignments, or classrooms? Think again! Acquiring knowledge is a constant process. Continuous learning is the path to hone skill sets and challenge the mind. To be a great leader, it is essential to identify and fill any knowledge gaps. Through constant self-evaluations, a leader can continue learning and leading with confidence.
Upskilling or Reskilling
It is crucial to understand whether a leader needs upskilling or reskilling. These words are frequently used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Upskilling is the process of sharpening or developing an already acquired skill for superior performance. For example, a person might be excellent with communication skills, but he or she can upskill with emotional intelligence, body language, and intonation.
On the other hand, reskilling deals with learning a completely different skill set. This may be for a new role or to move in a new direction career-wise. Let’s take an example of a teacher who wishes to become a top-notch content creator or a copywriter. He or she will have to undertake learning social media skills or copywriting skills. This reskilling will help the individual succeed in their new chosen profession.
Benefits of continuous learning in a leadership position
Continuous education is extremely beneficial to both an individual and an organization. Here are the advantages for leaders who keep upgrading themselves:
• Become a role model: A leader who is on a learning journey, becomes a role model to team members. It shows the willingness to learn and apply new knowledge.
• Adapting to change: Leaders who are ready to learn adapt faster to the changing environment and thus develop resilience to set backs.
• Improved decision-making skills: The process of learning enables a leader to make quick and informed decisions. Knowledge improves the ability to identify and mitigate risks. This enables the finding and application of suitable solutions.
• Stimulate Innovation: Leaders are exposed to new ideas and stay abreast of current industry best practices thus spearheading innovation.
• Superior problem-solving skills: Learning fosters the ability to approach problems from multiple angles and find creative solutions.
Organisations also benefit immensely through a culture of learning by encouraging their leaders to both upskill and reskill.
• Increased retention: Organisations that encourage learning, retain leaders.
• Improved morale: The process of learning leads to more skilled, confident and capable leaders.
• Stronger Culture: Encouraging an atmosphere of learning champions better collaboration, understanding and upholding of company values and culture.
• Interdepartmental cooperation: Understanding and learning different skills across various functions of an organization help with cooperation and collaboration. This process could possibly lead to new partnerships or joint effort projects.
• Talent Development: Organizations that encourage leaders to continuously learn, strengthen their framework and have the ability to attract top talent.
Inculcating a learning culture in an organization
So how does a leader initiate and encourage learning culture in an organization?
• The first step is to foster an atmosphere of curiosity, learning and innovative problem solving methodologies. This initiative will automatically pique interest in researching appropriate applications and learning material.
• The second step would be – establish mentorship and coaching programs. Inviting or hiring experienced coaches and leaders to share their expertise go a long way in developing a good training program. Pairing emerging talent with veterans in the organization inspire the next generation of leaders.
• Step three is to allocate dedicated time, resources and learning platforms to leaders. This step is essential to enable discipline and motivate leaders to continue their journey of learning.
• Finally, staying committed to the cause and leading by example are the cornerstone of establishing and continuing a culture of learning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, continuous learning is the path to achieving the gold standard version as a leader and as a person. Investing time and resources to learn best practices, habits and technologies will not only improve quality of life, but make the individual a great leader. An inquisitive and knowledgeable mind will always walk the path of leadership.
Great write-up. Very much timely discussion