David Kelly’s Curated L&D Content for the Week of 12/31/18

This week’s curated content includes links exploring the following:

• Tips on how to avoid common typography mistakes
• the importance of inclusive language
• a look back at topics we explored in 2018
• overcoming the fear of failure
• how to tell stakeholders that training isn’t the answer
• applying a marketing mix to learning

20 typography mistakes every beginner makes – And how you can avoid them by Janie Kliever
The words we use in elearning projects are incredibly important. As important as the words themselves are, the typography we use to display those words can often make all the difference in engagement. This post explores a number of common typography mistakes designers make.

An Incomplete Guide to Inclusive Language for Startups and Tech by Courtney Seiter
One of my favorite quotes about language comes from Comedian George Carlin: “We do think in language, so the quality of our thoughts and ideas can only be as good as the quality of our language.” That quote immediately came to mind when I read this post; if we want to be more inclusive in our work and lives, it starts with using the appropriate language.

Top Topics of 2018: News and Ideas That Piqued Your Interest by Pam Hogle
As 2018 draws to close, it’s natural to reflect on the year and what we’ve learned. This post explores some of the major trends that the eLearning Guild has explored, highlighting specific posts that stood out this year.

How to Overcome Your Fear of Failure by Susan Peppercorn
Failure is an interesting concept in the context of learning. While we know logically that failure is a great source of learning, many people naturally fear the idea of failing. Overcoming this fear is key if we are to truly harness the full potential for learning via performance. While this post focuses primarily on what a person can do to overcome their personal fears, I share it here because of the coaching approach being described by the author – an approach that can easily be adapted and used in the context of learning programs we build.

“It’s new, so everyone needs training on it.” Nope. by Cathy Moore
A common challenge for many learning and development professionals is to have stakeholders see L&D as a partner rather than as simply a “deliverer of training”. That’s a simple goal, but the process involved in shifting your reputation within an organization is decided more complex. This post provides great examples of how to have conversations with stakeholders that will help you enhance the effectiveness of the solutions you build, and more importantly, help your stakeholders see you as a partner in improving performance.

Create Learning Experiences with the Help of a Marketing Mix by Bianca Bauman
The parallels between L&D and Marketing have always fascinated me and inspired my work. I’ve encouraged others to explore the possibilities of applying marketing strategies to L&D for a number of years, but this post captures that potential in a unique way that I really like. The brief post has three core elements. First, it explores what a “marketing mix” is; next, it applies that concept to the context of improving L&D efforts; lastly, it shares tools that will be helpful in applying the concepts.

Make Learning your New Year’s Resolution

The start of a new year is a great time for making resolutions and setting goals. If learning and skill development are goals for you in 2019, consider joining us for the Learning Solutions Conference & Expo in March.

The conference features over 200 sessions and learning opportunities focused on the key topics and skills today’s training and education professionals need to develop. Take the first step in prioritizing your learning in 2019 by reserving your spot at Learning Solutions 2019!