The Importance of Continuous Learning

Power Idea by Carol Burnett Vest, Alliance Partner of HPISolutions

For the purpose of this discussion, we will consider the definition of Continuous Learning as the deliberate, consistent practice of attaining and comprehending new information, skills, abilities, attitudes, or values through formal or informal processes.  This concept applies to both employees and leaders of all organizations.

In his Harvard Business Review article, Bill Taylor, cofounder of Fast Company, addressed the question, “Are you learning as fast as the world is changing?”

I earned a master’s degree some years ago. I spent thousands of dollars to prepare for my career. However, when I placed that graduation cap upon my head, the thought that I was finished with the “learning process” never entered my mind. I was keenly aware that upskilling was going to be a way of life for me, and I welcomed this opportunity. Continuous learning is even more relevant today in our rapidly changing, hyper-competitive world.  As Peter Drucker said, “The only skill that will be important in the 21st century is the skill of learning new skills. Everything else will become obsolete over time”.

Let’s briefly review the benefits of this never-ending learning strategy for both employees and organizations.

Six Ways Continuous Learning Benefits Employees

1. Remain Marketable

Remaining relevant by keeping abreast of your industry’s latest developments, advances, and technologies enhances your value as a well-informed employee.

2. Increased Confidence

Developing new or updated skills can increase your self-confidence thus preparing you to step outside your comfort zone and welcome new or additional challenges.

3. Feeling Valued and Respected

You tend to feel more valued, respected, and appreciated when your employer is willing to invest in you, and that you are willing to invest in yourself.

4. Enhanced Career Guidance and Development

For employees pursuing a particular career path or degree; training, education or skills upgrading can help you reach or accomplish your objective(s).

5. Certifications and License Renewals

Opportunities for employees who need to complete continuing education requirements to maintain licensing or certifications exist through continuous learning.

6. Improved Productivity

Acquiring new/updated skills and knowledge can result in an increase in your personal performance, competence, and productivity thus influencing future promotions and financial incentives for you.

Benefits to Organizations of Developing a Continuous Learning Culture

Based on studies by Deloitte., organizations that are committed to sound learning cultures are:

• 92 percent more likely to develop innovative products and processes
• 52 percent more productive
• 56 percent more likely to be the first to market with their products and services
• 17 percent more profitable than their peers
• 30 – 50 percent higher engagement and retention rate

It’s obvious that creating a vibrant learning culture within an organization enhances employee fulfillment, engagement, and retention. It increases productivity, provides for faster adaptation and innovation, and escalates a company’s profitability. So, who are these organizations? In their book, The Strategy Process—Concepts, Contexts, Cases (Prentice Hall, 2003), the authors asserted that learning organizations are populated by leaders who have the ability to see the big picture and focus more on fundamental trends and forces of change rather than just addressing routine events.

As Peter Drucker wisely stated, “The relevant question is not simply what shall we do tomorrow, but rather what shall we do today in order to get ready for tomorrow.” When you are ready to consider your next meaningful learning endeavor, HPISolutions is here to provide an opportunity to “get ready for tomorrow”.  Feel free to reach out and ask us how at info@hpisolutions.com. Also coming soon HPI Learning Institute, a live, online institute for Leadership Certification and Learning.

“Intellectual growth should commence at birth and only cease at death”, Albert Einstein