I was recently speaking with someone I’ve known for over 30 years. We were catching up and I mentioned how many people haven’t realised that I have written a book.
They didn’t know I’d written a book.
I realised I could post about the book again but I thought it might be more interesting to answer some questions you probably didn’t know, didn’t know to ask, or hadn’t thought to find out. So here’s a list of some of the more questions I get asked about.
What do people think you do?
I’m not sure. I’ve done (and do) lots of different things in the L&D world so some people will know me for L&D strategy, whereas the next thinks I produce podcasts. My Mum doesn’t understand what I do but knows it relates to training.
What do you really do?
Someone described me as a learning strategist which is a neat description. That means working with organisations on their learning approaches, principles, strategies, design, delivery, and evaluation. This is across pretty much any sector and I have worked a lot in the management and leadership space for the last 25 years or so. I also work with vendors on their offer and products, providing consultancy support on topics as varied as buyer profiles, marketing activity, and customer education.
I speak and chair at conferences and events, and host webinars and events with large audiences. I have written one book so far with a couple more in draft. I do produce podcasts and the Women Talking About Learning podcast is the favourite thing I’ve ever done in L&D. Apparently I have a good voice for audio and have done a bit of voiceover work.
I host a monthly clinic where people can bring their L&D issues, and produce a monthly newsletter keeping people up to date on what I think is interesting and happening in L&D.
What are your talents?
People tell me I ask good questions. I’m keen on learning for myself and that means I read widely and seek information from outside the learning space to understand the world. I’m a good facilitator and trainer, with decent online skills at facilitation.
What do you know about?
Modern learning theory and practice, learning strategy, effective evaluation and the development of innovative and impactful learning strategies, the integration of learning technology with learning design, how to manage online learning, how to run virtual sessions, podcasting, and hybrid working. And cinema – I like films.
Where have you worked?
I started work in retail and have, among other things, been a children’s entertainer, butcher and football pools man (younger people, ask your parents). I have worked with public, private, and third sectors in organisations such as local government, retail banking, central government, the fire service, NGOs, Housing Associations, global consultancies, and retail.
What’s the thing people most ask you?
How do I make learning better?
What’s the one thing you want people to ask you?
How do I make measurement and evaluation meaningful and relevant (better)?
What inspired you to do what you do?
I was mouthy and gobby when I was younger and thought being the guy at the front of the room was a cool place to be. I now know that’s not the case and get inspiration from the people around me.
What influences your work the most?
I’ve written before about satellites; we all orbit different worlds and sometimes our orbits collide. The sparks from those collisions are where inspiration and influence lies.
How do you stay motivated?
I’m from humble beginnings and don’t want to go back to those again.
What’s a skill you wish you had?
I would love to be able to understand graphic design more. I try, but would like to know if what I do is ‘right’, and being more skilled would make my processes quicker.
What are you working on now?
Current projects include more on Proving Impact and evaluation, delivery of a major project in the NHS, and ongoing webinars.
What are you working on next?
Another two books are in draft and there’s a coaching approach to be worked through.
How much is your day rate for consultancy and delivery?
Let’s have a chat and see what works for you.
Lost and Desperate 
“People tell me I ask good questions”.
To do that, you utilise your biggest strength which you have not mentioned. From the short time that our paths crossed, I would say you are an excellent listener.
Listening skills is a strength that many professionals – L&D and others – either do not have or do not fully utilise.
LikeLike