Powering Up The Talent You Have with Ravin Jesuthasan
Dec 10, 2024
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Ravin Jesuthasan, a global thought leader and bestselling author, joins the hosts to explore the evolving landscape of work. They discuss how HR has transformed from compliance to strategic enhancement of workplace experiences. Ravin emphasizes the importance of upskilling existing talent and adapting organizational culture in response to changes like gig work and AI. Insights from his book, 'The Skills-Powered Organization,' provide a blueprint for fostering continuous learning, ensuring companies thrive in modern dynamic environments.
Organizations must focus on upskilling and engaging the entire workforce, recognizing the impactful contributions of all employees, not just executives.
The introduction of a skills passport enhances adaptability and prepares the workforce for evolving demands in the changing landscape of work.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Work and Leadership
The discussion delves into the evolving nature of work and the leadership perspective surrounding it. Traditional views that confine people to a specific job for life are considered outdated, as the dynamic nature of modern work requires individuals to adapt continuously. Recognizing that not just the top-level executives but also the broader workforce significantly contributes to decision-making is vital. This insight emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to work, focusing on the engagement and alignment of the entire workforce rather than just the elite few.
Understanding the Massive Workforce
The importance of understanding the broader 98% of the workforce is highlighted, emphasizing their daily decision-making impact. The orthodox focus on executive compensation is critiqued, as it often overlooks the value generated by employees at all levels. By applying decision science, leaders can better motivate and organize these employees, leading to improved effectiveness. This perspective encourages a shift from viewing the workforce as a monolith to recognizing the varied contributions across all levels.
Adapting to Future Changes
Insights into the need for companies to evolve and prepare for future changes in work are discussed. The pandemic catalyzed a shift in perspectives regarding remote work and worker engagement, urging leadership to rethink the traditional employment model. An example is provided through the work with Genentech, where a flexible framework for working was developed during COVID-19 to address evolving employee needs. This framework expanded beyond logistics to encompass a broader understanding of work design and engagement strategy.
The Role of Skills in Organizational Change
A focus on skills and their adaptability is essential for organizations navigating rapid changes in work demands. The concept of a skills passport is introduced, serving as a digital tool that provides insights into the changing skill landscape and helps employees bridge gaps for new opportunities. Real-world application examples demonstrate how organizations can redirect talent effectively while optimizing performance in response to evolving demands. This proactive approach to skill development facilitates organizational agility and prepares the workforce for future challenges.
Joining Jessica and Patty today is global thought leader, futurist and bestselling author Ravin Jesuthasan. They discuss the evolving landscape of work, how HR has transformed and how you should invest in and upskill the workforce you already have. Find out more about his book The Skills-Powered Organization: The Journey to the Next Generation Enterprise here.
Do you have an ongoing work issue you need guidance solving? Or maybe you want to know how Patty and Jess would have dealt with a past problem. Share your stories and questions with our producers here.
TruthWorks is hosted by Jessica Neal and Patty McCord. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. TruthWorks is an editaudio production.