For several years now, Cegos' Transformations, Skills and Learning barometer* has been highlighting a number of trends that are becoming more marked over time. These are not just figures or observations: they are real action drivers for training professionals. Here are some concrete ways in which you can adapt your L&D strategies and practices.
In this article, our experts Patricia Santos and Jonathan Mohadeb Lysobycki take a closer look at three major trends, and give you some practical tips for adapting your strategies and practices. Let's find out together.
Just-in-time training
The accelerating obsolescence of skills is a challenge for organisations. According to our barometer, 43% of employees worldwide feel that the response to their training needs is often late in coming. To remedy this, it is essential to develop a more reactive approach that is aligned with the company's strategy.
As Patricia Santos, Director of Group Solutions and Partnerships at Cegos, points out: "Strategy comes first, not skills! By clearly defining the skills needed to implement your strategy, you can proactively identify training needs". Another tip from Patricia: plan for the unexpected. "Don't commit 100% of your budget at the start of a project. New needs will arise within 6 months, so keep resources available to meet them".
Technologies such as generative AI and chatbots can also play a key role in this need for just-in-time training. If properly programmed, they can provide immediate, personalised responses to employees' problems. However, the role of the human element remains paramount. By developing a network of in-house trainers and fostering a learning culture, you can ensure that knowledge evolves in line with your organisation's needs.
Use the power of AI
Our barometer reveals that 44% of employees have already used generative AI for training. Is this percentage higher or lower in your organisation? Do you know how your own employees are using AI?
At Cegos, we conducted an internal survey to answer these questions. This led us to create a code of conduct to guide our teams in their experimentation and use of AI.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Mohadeb Lysobycki, Director of International Projects at Cegos, points out that 38% of employees say they still feel overwhelmed by the technology. To help them become familiar with the technology, he recommends starting with simple, transparent experiments. "For example, use AI to make personalised recommendations for training courses. Take advantage of this to make learners aware of the possibilities offered by these tools, and remove any resistance".
Generative AI can also speed up the creation of training content. However, it does not replace human expertise. It is essential to check the results it produces to ensure they are relevant.
Beyond content creation, AI can go as far as identifying skills gaps and predicting future training needs. These advances open up a whole new world of possibilities for HR and training teams!
Collecting and using data wisely
Data is becoming essential for optimising training strategies. While 41% of HR teams are already using data to improve the learner experience, there is still a great deal of potential to be exploited.
The amount of data available can be bewildering. To make the most of it, define precise and measurable objectives that are aligned with those of your organisation. By collecting and analysing reliable data from different sources (LMS platform, assessments, performance interviews), it is possible to personalise training paths, evaluate the effectiveness of programmes and identify skills gaps. Above all, make the link between your KPIs and your organisation's results. You'll be able to demonstrate how training contributes to employee retention or the success of a major project.
Our experts have plenty to say on the subject. For those who don't share their enthusiasm, they recommend taking things one step at a time. "Start by training the HR and Training team in data analysis, and choose intuitive tools", advises Patricia. "Then launch a pilot project before a large-scale roll-out. Organise quarterly workshops to instil a data culture within the team and improve their ability to interpret the data".
Even more trends
We've just presented you with a few ways of aligning your practices with the latest L&D trends.
Patricia Santos and Jonathan Mohadeb Lysobycki shared many more during a recent webinar entitled "L&D trends… and so what?" To find out more, watch the replay.
* The 2024 edition of the Transformation, Skills & Learning barometer sheds light on 9 countries in Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain), Asia (Singapore) and Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Chile). Cegos surveyed 5,000 employees and 469 Human Resources or Training directors or managers in private and public sector organisations with 50 or more employees.
