How to increase your effectiveness as you learn for work

Love it or hate it, learning is a lifelong skill that will only benefit your career…and your life in general if you want to get philosophical about it!  Being able to learn new skills quickly has always been useful. But in today’s modern workplace, it has become a necessity.

When you improve your work-related knowledge and skills, you’re more likely to:

• Enjoy your work
• Improve your performance.
• Be invited to take part in rewarding projects.
• Earn a raise or even a promotion.
• Ongoing learning will also make it easier to land your ideal job.

Here are some tips from our team of consultants on how to increase your effectiveness as you learn for work.

• Plan your learning with your career path in mind

When you can see how your learning fits into the bigger picture of your life and work—your career path—you’ll be a more motivated, more effective learner.

• Identify what you need to learn in the short term

There may be something you need to learn now that could benefit your current role, or the dream role you desire, such as mastering a new computer program or updating a technical skill.

• Identify what you want to learn over the longer term

Write down a list of the skills and knowledge that you need to support your future goals and put a plan in place to develop these skills and so achieve your goals.

• Understand your learning style

People learn in different ways, but most of us usually use a single style or method more often than another. Are you a hands-on learner? Do you learn best on your own or in a group setting? Are you a self-motivated learner or do you require deadlines and structure to get to where you want to go? Knowing your preferred method of learning may help you with your studying techniques and if you have a choice, pick the opportunities that suit your learning style.

• Find out about learning options

There’s a wide range of choices about where, when, and how to learn, from one-to-one sessions with a co-worker to online degree programs. Check with human resources or your supervisor to find out about the training options and support your organization offers. Many people find that part-time online learning is a good fit, allowing them to pursue their learning goals while they continue working.

• Make and follow a learning plan

We’ve said it before and we’ll no doubt say it again… “a goal without a plan is just a wish.” When you’ve identified your learning needs and wants and explored your options, create an action plan to ensure that you follow through on your intentions. State your goals, timelines and resources, and then set up a series of steps to start you on your way to a successful learning experience.

When you recognise the importance of learning in a rapidly changing workplace, you’re in a good position to take action. Learning can be fun, it’s an essential life skill and if you do it right, it can take you anywhere.