Essential connection between employee motivation, loyalty, and performance, and the presence of dynamic learning and development

There is an essential connection between employee motivation, loyalty, and performance, and the presence of dynamic learning and development (L&D) opportunities. Successful organizations understand the importance of L&D when developing strategies leading toward cultivating competitive advantages. It is important to understand who can engage in key roles when developing effective L&D programs.

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The Effective Development Starts with ManagersLinks to an external site. article suggests a manager's involvement in L&D initiatives can lead to meeting new employee expectations regarding L&D activity. Based on the article, respond to the following.

Explain how manager engagement is an essential reality in the improvement and effectiveness of L&D activities.
Include what managers can do to support L&D activity and meet employee expectations.
Provide an example from your own experience of an instance when you observed a manager taking a key role in L&D activity.
Provide an example of when a manager did not take a key role and detail the lost opportunity(s) you may now recognize as having been squandered.

Full Answer Section

   
  • Application and Transfer of Learning: Managers can provide opportunities for employees to apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge on the job. This reinforces learning and improves performance.
  • Performance Coaching and Feedback: Managers play a vital role in coaching employees and providing feedback on how to apply their L&D gains to improve their work.

Managerial Support for L&D:

Here's how managers can actively support L&D activities and meet employee expectations:

  • Clearly Communicate L&D Opportunities: Inform employees about available programs and encourage them to participate.
  • Allocate Time for Learning: Schedule time for employees to attend training sessions and complete L&D activities during work hours.
  • Set Expectations and Goals: Collaborate with employees to define learning goals and how newly acquired skills will be applied in their roles.
  • Provide Coaching and Feedback: Offer regular guidance and feedback to help employees integrate new skills and knowledge into their daily work.
  • Recognize and Reward Learning Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate employees' successful completion of L&D programs.

Examples:

  • Positive Example: In my previous role, a sales manager actively encouraged participation in a new customer relationship management (CRM) software training program. He attended sessions alongside his team, participated in discussions, and readily offered time for employees to practice using the new software during work hours. This resulted in high employee engagement, a smoother transition to the new system, and a significant improvement in sales team performance.

  • Missed Opportunity: I once witnessed a manager who delegated all L&D responsibilities to the HR department. He showed little interest in the training content and provided no support for employees during or after the program. This resulted in low employee morale, limited knowledge retention, and minimal impact on performance.

By actively engaging in L&D activities, managers can bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. This fosters a culture of continuous learning, leading to a more motivated, skilled, and productive workforce.

Sample Answer

     

The article "The Effective Development Starts with Managers" rightly emphasizes that manager involvement is crucial for successful Learning and Development (L&D) initiatives. Here's why:

Importance of Manager Engagement:

  • Understanding Employee Needs: Managers have a direct understanding of their team's strengths, weaknesses, and skill gaps. They can communicate these needs to L&D professionals, ensuring programs address real-world challenges.
  • Motivation and Reinforcement: When managers actively promote and participate in L&D activities, it sends a strong message about the importance of learning and development. This motivates employees to engage fully in the process.