I was in Oxford, England a couple of days ago meeting up with a client I had not seen for a while. As ever the conversation was good and always interesting to hear what they are doing with their management development work and the training of their large workforce. It is also interesting to see what leadership development they are undertaking too. These are areas of my expertise, interest and what I do.
I find it interesting that so many people at the top of businesses are very cautious of their own development whilst prepared to invest in people lower down the ladder. One of the things I have noticed over my may years in business it is the reluctance of this ‘learning culture’ at the top of businesses. Now does this create the atmosphere of learning within an organisation or is it seen as something the leaders ‘do’ to their people?
Oxford is known the world over for its University (in fact many colleges that make up the overall University) and its excellence as a place of learning. The enthusiasm for learning is visible during the academic semesters and even outside these times there is interest and pride in the various colleges. The memorabilia that people are keen to purchase. The peeping behind the closed doors and into the inner ‘quads’ that hide behind old large wooden doors. The photographs that are captured by people from around the world to share on their return home. The rows of bicycles that meet you at each turn, that in college time are many more as students of all ages journey around the city for their lectures.
Now questions that made me think:
- Are you a spectator of learning and development, just recycling your past learning?
- Is it something you ‘peddle’ to your people?
- When was the last time you got on your own mental exercise bicycle to help in your own development?
If these questions made you feel uncomfortable perhaps it would be a good time to speak. If you are used to being in the learning saddle well done…..you are in the minority.
My best wishes,
Peter
