Podcast Summary “The New Standards of Success for L&D with Lisa Christensen of McKinsey & Company”
In a 2024 interview on the “Learning Leader Spotlight” podcast, Lisa Christensen, Director of the Learning Design Center of Excellence at McKinsey & Company, shared her insights on the evolving landscape of Learning and Development (L&D). With over two decades in the field, Lisa discussed technological advancements, the integration of generative AI, the significance of mentorship, and the future trajectory of L&D.
Technological Advancements in L&D
Reflecting on the past few years, Lisa highlighted the rapid technological progress within the L&D sector. Historically, the industry struggled to match the user experiences offered by consumer-grade platforms like Netflix, Amazon, or Google. However, recent developments have led to substantial improvements in learning platforms, enhancing user interfaces and overall experiences. Lisa emphasized a shift from mere knowledge dissemination to more practice-oriented and skill-based learning approaches, attributing this evolution to technological innovations.
The Role of Generative AI in Learning
Looking ahead, Lisa identified generative AI (GenAI) as a pivotal factor shaping the future of learning. She categorized its impact into two primary areas: productivity and innovation. On the productivity front, GenAI is being integrated into platforms as chatbots and virtual coaches, facilitating immediate, personalized support for learners. Innovative applications include sophisticated simulations that offer immersive learning experiences. Lisa expressed optimism that as GenAI automates routine tasks, L&D professionals can focus more on human-centric aspects, such as mentorship and in-the-moment learning, thereby enhancing the apprenticeship model within organizations.
Mentorship and Professional Growth
Throughout her career, Lisa has been fortunate to have mentors who significantly influenced her professional development. One mentor, known for providing candid and constructive feedback, instilled in her a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of design. Another mentor encouraged Lisa to lead authentically, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself in leadership roles. These experiences have shaped Lisa’s perspective on the value of mentorship and the necessity of fostering environments where individuals can learn directly from experienced colleagues.
Listen to Lisa’s podcast here.
Challenges in Hiring for L&D Roles
When discussing hiring challenges within L&D, Lisa pointed out the scarcity of professionals adept at data analysis. The modern L&D landscape is rich with data, moving beyond traditional metrics like course completion rates to more nuanced insights into learner engagement and effectiveness. However, deriving actionable insights from this data requires specialized skills. Lisa underscored the need for L&D professionals who can navigate complex data environments to inform strategy and improve learning outcomes.
Staying Informed in a Rapidly Changing Field
To remain current with industry trends, Lisa advocates for a broad and proactive approach to learning. She recommends engaging with thought leaders and research organizations both within and outside the traditional L&D sphere. For instance, Lisa appreciates the work of RedThread Research, a think tank exploring various aspects of learning and development. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of understanding broader trends in technology, psychology, and cognitive science to anticipate and adapt to changes that may influence the L&D field.
Recommended Reading for Aspiring Learning Leaders
For those aspiring to leadership roles in L&D, Lisa suggests two influential books. “First Things Fast” by Allison Rossett offers valuable insights into performance consulting and the importance of identifying root causes in learning challenges. Lisa believes this book provides foundational knowledge for understanding and addressing learning needs effectively. She also recommends “Cointelligence” by Ethan Mollick, which explores the collaboration between humans and generative AI. This book provides a contemporary perspective on integrating AI into learning strategies, a topic Lisa finds particularly relevant as the industry evolves.
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