The L&D Blog

Get planning for Learning at Work Week 13- 19 May 2024

    Learning at Work Week led by Campaign for Learning is a fantastic initiative to promote continuous learning and development within the workplace.

    Planning ahead allows you to organise activities, workshops, and resources that cater to the needs and interests of your team members. Here are some steps you might consider for planning:

    1. Set clear goals: Determine what you want to achieve during Learning at Work Week. Are you focusing on upskilling specific job-related competencies, fostering a culture of continuous learning, or introducing new learning initiatives?
    2. Survey employees: Understand the learning interests and preferences of your employees through surveys or informal discussions. This will help you tailor the activities to their needs and preferences.
    3. Organise workshops and training sessions: Plan a series of workshops, training sessions, or lunch-and-learns covering a variety of topics relevant to your team’s roles and interests. You can invite internal experts, external trainers, or even facilitate peer-to-peer learning sessions.
    4. Leverage online resources: Explore online learning platforms or resources that employees can access at their convenience. This could include subscriptions to platforms like LinkedIn Learning or offering access to industry-specific resources.
    5. Promote peer learning: Encourage knowledge sharing among team members by organising peer-led sessions or setting up mentorship programmes. Peer learning can be a powerful way for employees to learn from each other’s experiences and expertise.
    6. Recognition and rewards: Recognise and celebrate employees’ participation and achievements during Learning at Work Week. This could include certificates of completion, shout-outs in team meetings, or small rewards for active participation.
    7. Evaluate and gather feedback: After the event, gather feedback from employees to understand what worked well and areas for improvement. Use this feedback to inform future learning initiatives and continue to foster a culture of learning in the workplace.

    Remember, Learning at Work Week is not just about one week of activities but about creating a culture of continuous learning that extends beyond the event itself.

    Find out more about the training sessions we can help your organisation with as part of Learning at Work Week and beyond.

    How to raise awareness of and manage stress in the workplace

      Here are some techniques for stress awareness and managing stress in the workplace:

      1. Mindfulness and meditation: Encourage employees to practice mindfulness or meditation regularly. This can help them stay present, reduce anxiety, and manage stress levels effectively.
      2. Stress awareness training: Provide workshops or training sessions to raise awareness about stress, its causes, and its impact on health. Help employees recognise the signs of stress in themselves and their colleagues.
      3. Encourage open communication: Foster a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their stressors and seeking support from colleagues or managers. Open communication channels can help prevent stress from escalating.
      4. Set realistic goals and expectations: Help employees set achievable goals and expectations. Unrealistic workloads or deadlines can contribute to stress. Encourage prioritisation and time management skills.
      5. Promote work-life balance: Encourage employees to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. Offer flexible working arrangements or support initiatives that promote well-being outside of work.
      6. Provide stress management resources: Offer resources such as counselling services, employee assistance programs, or access to stress management apps. Ensure employees know how to access these resources when needed.
      7. Encourage regular breaks: Remind employees to take regular breaks throughout the workday. Encourage them to step away from their desks, stretch, or engage in relaxation techniques.
      8. Promote physical activity: Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels. Encourage employees to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines, whether it’s through lunchtime walks, fitness classes, or gym memberships.
      9. Create a supportive work environment: Foster a supportive and inclusive workplace culture where employees feel valued and respected. Encourage teamwork, collaboration, and mutual support among colleagues.
      10. Lead by example: Managers and leaders should model healthy stress management behaviours. Encourage them to prioritise their own well-being and demonstrate healthy coping mechanisms.
      11. Provide training on stress reduction techniques: Offer workshops or training sessions on stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or cognitive behavioural techniques.
      12. Regular check-ins: Conduct regular check-ins with employees to discuss workload, stress levels, and any challenges they may be facing. Provide support and resources as needed.

      By implementing these techniques, organisations can promote stress awareness and create a supportive work environment where employees can effectively manage stress levels.

      Are you heading to Learning Technologies?

        One of Europe’s leading workplace learning events, Learning Technologies is back this month, showcasing everything you need to know about organisational learning and the technology used to support learning at work.

        Starting off as an IT training show, Learning Technologies is now celebrating it’s 25th year!

        This leading L&D event includes a conference, exhibition and free seminar programme.

        This year it’s being held at London ExCel on the 17-18 April.

        Find out more and register for your pass at the Learning Technologies website.

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