April 1, 2011
Always Keep Learning
Every day, we learn something new. Often we don’t even have time to notice that knowledge or skill has been gained. It is taken for granted that learning happens. As adults most dread having to be taught something by anyone. Training is often thought of as a ‘necessary evil’, a break from ‘real work’, or a temporary escape where we can socialize or sneak in a nap (and if there’s free food, all the better!). Why do human resource departments feel that they have to force employees to sit through these sessions?
One reason is to help employees. HR specialists understand that when everyone is on the same page, and knows what is expected of them, it increases production. People are working and doing things the ‘right’ way. A new employee joins the team, we train them in policy and procedure, show them around the office, and they gain a sense of belonging and understand what is expected of them.
Of course, training doesn’t end there. Ongoing seminars might include customer service or an introduction to a new program or technology. The reasoning behind staff development initiatives might also be to weed out those who might not be top performers. When someone is given clear instruction on a policy or procedure and then fails to carry it out, written warnings and termination may follow. Though this is a sad practice in corporate life, most reputable companies truly are basing the desire to share knowledge on a hope that it will bring the teams closer together and improve the workplace environment.
Bottom line is that most times training can’t be avoided, so find out why the session is being presented, and go in with an open mind. Ask what the objectives are for the subject, and make sure the message has been delivered before you leave. Signing off that you attended is important, but only half of it. If the trainer didn’t cover the subject completely or you still have questions, ask. One day it may come back to you that you should have known something, you were at the training. It could cost you your job.
The bonus is that usually there is something new you can take away from the experience. Sometimes you really have to look for it, or to recognize the concept for what it is, perhaps a twist on something you already know that helps add to your understanding. Even if it is only a new joke to share, you will be changed by the experience.
Education is a gift that we all take for granted, so I have decided that my mission is to note the new things I learn each day – to take time to appreciate them and to in turn, share them with you. If I am lucky, there may be multiple entries on some days. Every mistake, every question, every experience adds to who we are. So my purpose in this blog is to share what I’ve learned each day and to encourage everyone not only to seek knowledge, but to give yourself the time to appreciate what you have learned.
