Scott Robohn, an expert in team skill development, joins Laura Santamaria to dive into the essential need for continuous learning in the IT field. They discuss strategies for motivating engineering teams to pursue new skills, even under budget constraints. The conversation highlights the importance of leadership in fostering a culture of skill growth and the role of cloud learning portals. They also touch on guiding individuals towards suitable career paths and emphasize the value of networking in skill enhancement.
Continuous learning is essential in IT, with leaders playing a pivotal role in nurturing a culture of skill development.
Leveraging accessible online resources and community events allows teams to pursue professional growth even in budget-constrained environments.
Deep dives
Navigating Change in IT Careers
Change is a constant in IT disciplines, making it essential for professionals to embrace new skills to thrive in their careers. Adapting to advancements is not purely optional; it's often necessary for survival in the industry. While many engineers are naturally curious and eager to learn, a portion of the workforce may require additional motivation to embrace ongoing development. Leaders play a key role in fostering an environment where continuous learning is encouraged, ultimately benefiting both the individual and the organization.
Encouraging Self-Directed Learning
In a landscape where formal training opportunities may be limited, leaders are tasked with encouraging their teams to seek learning opportunities independently. Individuals can utilize the vast amount of available resources online, making it easier than ever to start acquiring new skills without waiting for corporate training budgets. Moreover, grassroots community events such as local meetups and user groups provide avenues for professional growth that are often low-cost or free, presenting valuable networking experiences. Leaders should actively promote these options, demonstrating their validity and linking them to personal and professional development.
Leading by Example in Skill Acquisition
Effective leadership involves not just guiding others, but also modeling the behaviors and attitudes expected within a team. Leaders should engage in their own learning processes and share their experiences candidly to encourage others to follow suit. When leaders partake in training or skill acquisition, it reinforces the value of continuous learning and can dismantle excuses related to time or resources. This practice cultivates a culture of growth where everyone feels empowered to pursue new knowledge and skillsets.
Balancing Team Development with Individual Growth
Finding the right balance between encouraging team members to develop new skills and managing overall project requirements is a complex task for leaders. It's crucial to foster a sense of curiosity among team members while also setting clear expectations for their contributions to projects. According to data, a significant percentage of team members are usually willing and able to learn in alignment with organizational needs. Leaders should focus on creating pathways for growth, allowing team members to take ownership of their development while aligning individual aspirations with the team's goals.
IT work requires ongoing training and skills development. Laura Santamaria and guest Scott Robohn discuss strategies for leveling up your team to ensure they have the skills they need. Laura and Scott talk about the need for continuous learning and explore options for encouraging skill development, even in budget-constrained environments. Good leaders should guide by... Read more »
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