Improving Training Programs with Feedback

As learning professionals (or whatever hat we might be wearing at any given moment), it is our responsibility to assess a learning need and provide a solution. And, tipping my cap to my passionate learning cohorts around the world, I'd say we do a fine job. But, you know what? We don't always have the … Continue reading Improving Training Programs with Feedback

Let’s Get Philosophical

The other day, I had a really good conversation with a friend and colleague. At one point, the topic turned to adult learning philosophy. We waxed philosophic for a few minutes, and then the conversation moved on to something else. But that conversation got me thinking about my own philosophy of learning. Now, don't you … Continue reading Let’s Get Philosophical

Are Smile Sheets Misunderstood?

We all know that an evaluation survey won't do much for you if you don't do something with the data.  We also know that simply asking some questions when an employee completes a training class isn't enough to tell us whether that employee's performance will improve, or if the business has been impacted. But those … Continue reading Are Smile Sheets Misunderstood?

Pinterest for Onboarding: Part Two

In my last post, I threw out this crazy little notion about incorporating Pinterest into employee onboarding programs.  I promised that there would be a Part 2...and here it is: I've got 3 more board possibilities for you, so between last week's post and this one, you'll have 8...count 'em...8 ideas for boards you can … Continue reading Pinterest for Onboarding: Part Two

Pinterest for Onboarding: Part One

Ah, Pinterest.  The (addicting!) social media darling. This site has opened my eyes to everything from new recipes, to travel inspiration, to shoes and handbags (swoon!) and home decor ideas...and about 1001 other things.  I even post links to this blog and other things that inspire me on a Pinterest board.  Such fun! Pinterest is … Continue reading Pinterest for Onboarding: Part One

The Art of the Meet & Greet

The Meet & Greet is a beloved component of many onboarding programs.  I'm going out on a limb, however, and guess that many hiring managers love them for the wrong reasons.  Let's ruffle some feathers: Reasons I Think (Some) Hiring Managers Love Meet & Greets: 1. They're pretty easy to coordinate. 2. Most of the … Continue reading The Art of the Meet & Greet

3 Questions Every New Manager Should Ask

When people think of "onboarding", many people often think of "orientation".  Even the most seasoned learning professionals are guilty of this!  If you've read this earlier post, you'll remember that we explored this topic, but it bears further exploration... Orientation is part of onboarding, but not all onboarding is orientation! So, let's think beyond the … Continue reading 3 Questions Every New Manager Should Ask

The Lunchbox Evolution

This was my lunchbox when I was in the first grade.  Well, not this EXACT lunchbox, but the one I faithfully carried to school each day looked exactly like this one. I used it to my pack my typical PB&J on Wonder Bread (cut into triangles!), carrot sticks and Twinkie (Rest in Peace, Hostess)...sometimes soup … Continue reading The Lunchbox Evolution

Socialization, Schmocialization.

It's not just about company culture.  It's not just about getting comfortable.  Or building relationships. Now, before the Culture Police (sounds like a mashup of classic 80s bands) steps in and calls me out, read on. There is a point: You hired that person to do a job.  Giving him the tools he needs to … Continue reading Socialization, Schmocialization.