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| A New Type Of Leadership Is Needed Today - A New Survey Finds A new type of leadership is needed in today's changing business environment, according to a survey of hundreds of L&D professionals conducted by the World of Learning 2009, the UK's key conference and exhibition for business learning. The unity of opinion was overwhelming, as the survey revealed that this was the view of 91 per cent of respondents. The poll also revealed that 49 per cent believe that the greatest priority in skills development is the ability to think flexibly and creatively, with motivation and staff engagement close behind it (47 per cent stated that is also a key area). These were followed by change management skills (40 per cent), business skills and acumen (26 per cent), enhanced communication skills and empathy (24 per cent) and the ability to influence (20 per cent). Andrew Gee, Senior Project Manager for the World of Learning, said: "The findings of the survey reinforce what we know from our discussions with L&D practitioners and experts. Leadership is a highly topical subject for people in all walks of life from politicians to the general public, and the current economic situation is forcing people in positions of leadership to adapt and learn new skills sets in order to be effective in their role and deliver the results that UK businesses currently need." The survey results have been released ahead of the World of Learning Conference & Exhibition, which takes place on 30 September and 1 October 2009 at the NEC, Birmingham, where Sarah Henbrey, Director – People & Organisational Development at Sony Electronics Europe, will present a case study on developing leaders within Sony. This will focus on creating outstanding leaders in times of organisational change, refining leadership programmes in order to cope with today's economy, the role of leaders in driving change and engagement and the leader's role in creating an environment where innovation flourishes. This year's conference focuses predominantly on the impact of the current economic climate on organisations, the role of L&D in contributing to organisational performance, and how L&D professionals can learn the necessary skills to face the challenges of today's pressures and demands. It also addresses how L&D professionals can help their organisations continue to invest in the skills of the people they will need to take them forward out of the recession. Running alongside the conference, the World of Learning Exhibition hosts more than 110 major learning suppliers offering services to assist L&D professionals in achieving this, including AFA, the Centre for High Performance Development, Impact International, Motiv8, the School of Leadership & Coaching, Scott Bradbury and Unlimited Potential. There will also be feature areas to aid skills development including: the Experiential Learning Zone; a programme of free educational seminars; and the British Institute of Learning & Development (BILD) Advice Clinic, which offers the opportunity for visitors to gain personalised advice on their learning issues and also features small group skills workshops focusing on some of the key aspects of running an L&D function. In addition visitors will be able to experience the product presentations, the Energiser Zone, the Serious Games Zone and the Networking Café. write your comments about the article :: © 2009 Exhibition News :: home page |