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What is the purpose of learning and development?
Learning and Development (L&D) is the process in HR whereby the skills, knowledge and competencies of employees are enhanced to benefit both the individual and the company. Incorporating learning and development activities into HRM is a core HR duty and is essential to integrate the corporate culture and necessary skills into the workforce.
What are learning and development activities?
Learning and Development activities can be both structured and formal or semiformal. Activities such as career seminars, training courses, in-person training, mentorships, sponsored education, online learning, in-house competitions, special skills acquisition and more are all examples of learning and development.
What are the types of learning and development?
Orientation: this is the type of learning and development that is given to new employees to familiarize them with existing corporate policies, code of conduct and expected contributions
Technical skills development: this type of learning and development aims to equip employees with the technical skills needed to deliver quality performance. It is usually department-specific, as the technical skills needed in different operations differ.
Soft skills development: this type aims to equip employees with the soft skills that will help them function as high-performing individuals, whether individually or in a team. Skills such as problem-solving, communication, work ethics, teamwork, etc., are regarded as soft skills.
Safety training: Safety training is a type of L&D that aims to equip workers with skills that help to ensure safety within the workplace. First aid training, fire outbreak training, and health and safety training fall under this category.
Leadership training: this type of L&D is targeted at line managers and team leads or employees who have the potential to fill leadership positions. It exposes them to leadership styles and how they can effectively coordinate themselves and the people below them.
What is an L&D strategy?
An L&D strategy is a clear outline of the company's plans to nurture the skills and competencies of its workforce, to create and build its hub of experts that runs like a well-greased engine. An L&D strategy indicates that the company is investing resources to develop employees into more valuable professionals.
A good L&D strategy is one in which the employees do not feel forced to undergo the process. Instead, the management gives the employees a clear and compelling reason to learn and develop themselves for their good. An L&D strategy fuses the career goals of the employees with the business goals of the company and provides a learning pathway to help both parties meet their objectives.
Why is L&D important?
L&D is important because it helps build the workforce's capacity and capability, ensuring the organization is progressive and prepared for successful future operations. Learning and Development is a vital tool used to bring all employees up to speed on new skills and align them with the company's goals.
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