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Behavioral science is transforming collaboration from chaos to clarity. Let’s face it: most meetings suck. They’re long, repetitive, unclear, and worst of all—ineffective. According to a study by Harvard Business Review, 71% of senior managers say meetings are unproductive and inefficient. But here’s the twist: meetings aren’t the real problem. Maybe it's people. Hear us out! More specifically, how people interact, communicate, and make decisions—often without understanding the personalities and work styles of the people in the (virtual) room. That’s where behavioral science steps in and starts to flip the script. We’re not talking about soft “team-building” stuff. We’re talking about hard behavioral data baked into your meeting tools, real-time personality insights, and AI-powered platforms that help teams collaborate with intention—not confusion. Let’s break it down. Meetings Aren’t Going Away. But the Pain Can. The average employee attends 62 meetings a month. That’s more than two per workday. Yet only 50% of meeting time is seen as effective. In fact, according to a Korn Ferry study, more than two-thirds (67 percent) of workers say that spending too much time in meetings and on calls distracts them from making an impact at work., while 34% say they waste between 2-5 hours per week on calls or meetings that don’t accomplish anything. Still, 35 percent say that they’d go to a meeting even if they knew it wasn’t going to be productive, instead of declining the meeting. The cost? Lost productivity, wasted salaries, and exhausted teams. But here’s what’s changing: behavioral science and workplace psychometrics are now being applied not just to hiring—but to everyday collaboration. That means:Predictive insights into how team members make decisions Personality overlays right inside your calendar and collaboration tools AI-driven recommendations for how to communicate with others based on their traitsIt’s not a meeting makeover. It’s a collaboration revolution. What’s Driving the Change? The convergence of behavioral analytics and workplace technology. Platforms like Humantelligence are embedding psychometric data where people actually work—inside Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Slack, and calendar invites. That means team members don’t need to “go find” each other’s personality profiles. It’s right there, contextualized for the task at hand. No more guessing if someone is detail-oriented or big-picture. No more misreading silence as disengagement. No more talking in circles. The tools surface what matters in the moment: how someone prefers to give and receive information, how they process feedback, how they approach problem-solving. And then it suggests how you should interact with them to get things done faster and with less friction. From Chaos to Clarity: How It Works Imagine you’re scheduling a cross-functional project meeting. Your calendar tool shows you behavioral summaries for everyone invited. You see that Maria is highly analytical and task-focused, while Jared is more relational and expressive. That information doesn’t sit in a dusty HR file—it pops up directly in the invite and offers smart tips for framing your agenda and communicating in a way that resonates with both. Then, inside the meeting, your video platform nudges you in real time:“Speak in bullet points for Maria” “Check in personally with Jamal before diving into details” “Expect Taylor to need more time to process before weighing in”This is behavioral intelligence at work. It’s not about changing who you are—it’s about adapting how you show up to drive better outcomes. And it works. The Results Are In Companies using behavioral science in daily workflows see major gains in collaboration. According to our customer data:32% fewer misunderstandings in remote meetings 28% reduction in meeting time due to more focused communication 40% improvement in meeting follow-through and accountability 35% faster decision-making on cross-functional teamsWhy? Because when people understand each other, they collaborate more efficiently. It’s that simple. And this isn’t just internal optimization—it impacts the bottom line. Teams that communicate effectively are 25% more productive (McKinsey), and highly aligned companies grow revenue 58% faster (Forbes). From Personalization to Performance This shift toward embedded personality insights is part of a broader movement: personalization at scale. Netflix personalizes your movie list. Spotify curates your playlists. Behavioral science now personalizes how you collaborate at work—tailoring how meetings are run, who speaks when, and how decisions get made. It’s not about labeling people. It’s about unlocking their best work by acknowledging who they are and how they operate. With tools like Humantelligence, organizations can:Build high-performing teams based on culture fit and behavioral diversity Coach managers on how to run meetings that respect different work styles Replace guesswork with data-driven collaboration strategiesThis isn’t just “nice to have.” It’s the future of work. And it’s already here. What This Means for Leaders Leaders can no longer afford to wing it. In today’s hybrid, fast-paced, culturally diverse environments, emotional intelligence isn’t enough—you need behavioral intelligence. If you’re still running meetings based on gut feel or outdated agendas, you’re not just wasting time—you’re leaving value on the table. Here’s how modern leaders are making meetings matter: ✅ They know their teams’ communication styles before stepping into a meeting ✅ They use behavioral insights to assign roles, manage time, and facilitate dialogue ✅ They create inclusive environments where every style has a voice ✅ They make data-informed decisions that move things forward This isn’t micromanagement—it’s micro-adaptation. And it changes everything. Meetings aren’t inherently broken. They’re just misaligned with how people think and work. Behavioral science is the missing link—giving teams the clarity, context, and tools to turn meetings from chaotic to productive. No more one-size-fits-all agendas. No more disengaged Zoom calls. No more death-by-update. Instead, imagine a culture where people feel seen, heard, and understood—where meetings are strategic, fast, and energizing. That’s what’s possible when behavioral data powers the way we collaborate. Humantelligence is leading this charge—embedding behavioral insights directly into the tools your teams already use. Because better collaboration shouldn’t be a wish list item. It should be a default setting. Final Thought: It’s About Making Your Meetings Better We’ll say it again: meetings aren’t going away. But they can get a whole lot better. When behavioral science is built into your daily workflow, meetings become less about endurance—and more about impact. So the next time you’re dreading that team sync or quarterly planning session, ask yourself: Do we actually understand each other? Are we collaborating with clarity—or just colliding with personalities? Are we using tools that help us work smarter—or just schedule faster? If the answers are no, it’s time for a change. Because better collaboration starts before the meeting even begins.

What was once buzzword is now a mandate. AI is setting the bar for employees, as evidenced in the Shopify memo telling employees that they’ll have to show jobs can’t be done by artificial intelligence before asking for more headcount and resources. What's more, organizations are also under increasing pressure to deliver personalized professional development for employees. Traditional coaching, while effective, often comes with significant financial and logistical challenges. Enter AI-powered coaching: a transformative solution that not only democratizes access to high-quality development but also offers measurable cost savings and scalability. As budgets tighten and the demand for upskilling grows, AI coaching is emerging as a key player in the economics of employee development. Let’s explore how businesses can leverage AI coaching to drive growth, reduce costs, and support talent at scale.Why Traditional Coaching Models Fall Short Executive coaching and one-on-one mentoring have long been staples of professional development, particularly for high-potential employees and senior leaders. While impactful, these programs are also:Expensive: Coaching engagements can cost between $200 and $500 per hour, with executive coaching programs often running into tens of thousands of dollars per participant annually. Inaccessible: Only a small percentage of employees—typically top-tier performers or executives—benefit from traditional coaching due to limited availability and budget constraints. Unscalable: The logistics of providing personalized coaching to large or distributed teams are cumbersome and often unfeasible.This model may work for small cohorts, but it doesn’t align with the needs of modern organizations striving for equitable and continuous learning at all levels.The Rise of AI-Powered Coaching AI coaching bridges the gap between quality and scale by delivering timely, personalized feedback and development tools directly to employees—no scheduling required. Leveraging natural language processing, machine learning, and behavioral science (psychometrics), AI coaches can provide:Real-time feedback Personalized learning paths Data-driven insights into individual and team behaviors Nudges to reinforce soft skills and leadership growthAccording to a 2023 McKinsey report on AI in the workplace, companies adopting AI-enabled tools for talent development are 2.3 times more likely to report productivity gains and cost savings source.The Financial Case for AI Coaching 1. Lower Cost per Employee One of the most compelling benefits of AI coaching is its affordability. Unlike human coaching, where costs increase linearly with each new participant, AI platforms typically operate on a subscription or per-seat basis—dramatically lowering the cost per user. For example, a company might spend $10,000 annually to coach a single executive with a human coach. That same budget could support AI coaching for hundreds of employees, delivering personalized development at a fraction of the cost. 2. Scalable Across Teams and Geographies AI tools are inherently scalable. Whether you’re onboarding 50 new hires or rolling out a leadership development program across five continents, AI coaching platforms can deliver consistent and personalized support without logistical complexity. This scalability is especially crucial for organizations embracing hybrid and remote work, where real-time, self-guided development tools are essential to maintaining engagement and performance. 3. Continuous and On-Demand Support Traditional coaching is episodic—often tied to monthly or quarterly sessions. AI coaching is always on. It provides nudges, feedback, and insights exactly when employees need them, leading to faster behavior change and better retention of skills. Research from BetterUp found that consistent, in-the-moment coaching increased employee engagement by 22% and reduced attrition by 30% source. 4. Actionable Data and ROI Insights AI platforms generate rich, anonymized data that helps organizations understand behavior trends, skills gaps, and coaching effectiveness. This allows L&D leaders to tie coaching outcomes to business metrics like performance, retention, and engagement—something that’s notoriously difficult with traditional coaching. With platforms like Humantelligence, organizations can benchmark team dynamics, measure progress over time, and adapt learning strategies based on real-time analytics.Making AI Coaching Work for Your Organization Here are key considerations if you're looking to maximize the ROI of AI coaching: 1. Align with Business Objectives Start by identifying the specific outcomes you want to drive—such as improving manager effectiveness, boosting cross-functional collaboration, or accelerating leadership readiness. The more aligned your AI coaching solution is with business goals, the clearer the value proposition. 2. Integrate with Existing Tools and Workflows Adoption increases when AI coaching is integrated seamlessly into daily routines. Look for platforms that work within your existing tech stack—such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, or your LMS—so employees can receive insights in the flow of work. 3. Prioritize Personalization A one-size-fits-all approach won’t move the needle. Choose solutions that tailor insights and nudges based on individual personality, communication style, and role. The more relevant the feedback, the higher the engagement. 4. Ensure Data Ethics and Transparency AI tools should be transparent about how they collect and use data. Employees must trust that the coaching they receive is private, secure, and beneficial. Look for vendors with clear data governance policies and a strong track record of responsible AI use.The Future Is Scalable, Equitable Coaching As workforce expectations evolve and the pressure to retain talent intensifies, scalable coaching is no longer optional—it’s essential. AI-powered coaching solutions deliver on the promise of cost-effective, high-impact development that reaches every corner of your organization. At Humantelligence, we believe in empowering every employee with the insights they need to grow. Our AI-powered behavioral science platform helps companies build more agile, self-aware, and collaborative teams—while keeping professional development affordable and measurable.Key TakeawaysTraditional coaching might be effective but it's hard to measure, expensive, and limited in scale. AI coaching reduces the cost per employee while delivering personalized, real-time support. Scalable, data-driven, and integrated into daily workflows, AI coaching can align directly with business goals. Organizations embracing AI coaching see improved engagement, performance, and ROI.Interested in transforming your workplace with scalable, AI-powered coaching? Learn more about our AI coach and discover how to make coaching and employee development more impactful — and accessible — than ever before.

Corporate coaching, professional coaching, executive coaching -- whatever you'd like to call it -- coaching in the workplace has long been a cornerstone of leadership development, helping individuals overcome challenges, gain self-awareness, and accelerate their professional growth. The U.S. business coaching market is worth $14.2 billion, growing at 2.6% annually with around 65% of professional coaches focused on business and leadership coaching. Coaching's popularity underscores its perceived value. However, the current approach to coaching in the workplace often falls short as a one-size-fits-all solution—not just for managers and people leaders but for employees at every level of an organization. The gaps in traditional coaching models highlight the need for more personalized, scalable, and actionable solutions that align with the future of work. Gap 1: The Philosophical Limitations of Coaching Coaching’s foundational philosophy emphasizes reflective questioning and creating space for individuals to uncover their own wisdom. While this approach can spark meaningful insights for some, employees under pressure often need quick, specific advice that coaching’s non-directive methodology cannot provide in real time. For example, when faced with urgent decisions or interpersonal conflicts, employees may struggle to translate reflective insights into immediate solutions. Moreover, coaches typically rely on secondhand accounts of workplace dynamics provided by their clients. This reliance limits the coach’s ability to offer actionable guidance rooted in the broader context of team interactions, organizational goals, and cultural nuances—a gap that affects employees across all roles. Gap 2: The Disconnect Between Coaching & Organizational Context One of the key benefits of coaching is its ability to foster trust and deeper self-awareness through one-on-one relationships. However, its effectiveness is inherently constrained by the coach's limited understanding of the employee’s day-to-day environment. Coaches often lack firsthand knowledge of organizational policies, processes, and culture, which can lead to generic advice that fails to address unique challenges faced by employees. According to Gartner, incorporating corporate context into development opportunities can boost performance by 35%, yet this critical element is often missing from traditional coaching relationships. Gartner recommends that organizations integrate their culture into everyday behaviors and processes, including coaching to transform values into tangible practices. Companies that successfully integrate culture into their operations report a 63% increase in employee engagement, along with substantial boosts in employee performance and retention. Gap 3: Outdated Insights and Limited Scalability Even the most experienced coaches may struggle to stay current with evolving research and best practices in organizational psychology. Employees today face increasingly complex challenges—from navigating hybrid work environments to managing mental health concerns—and require guidance informed by real-time evidence-based insights. Traditional coaching methods often fall short in addressing these rapidly changing needs. Additionally, the fixed-schedule nature of coaching sessions creates a disconnect between when problems arise and when employees can access support. This delay forces individuals to navigate critical situations without immediate guidance, potentially leading to suboptimal decisions that impact team performance and business outcomes. Scalability presents another challenge: premium costs and time constraints make it difficult for organizations to provide coaching access to all employees who could benefit from it. As a result, only a select few receive support, limiting the overall impact on organizational growth and employee satisfaction. Gap 4: Generic Guidance from AI Coaching Tools To address scalability issues, some organizations have turned to AI-powered coaching solutions. While these tools aim to mimic human coaches by asking reflective questions or providing basic guidance, they often fall short due to their mechanical and impersonal nature. Employees may find these interactions frustrating because they lack the nuanced understanding and adaptability that human coaches bring. A New Approach: Psychometrics + AI Humantelligence offers a transformative solution designed for all employees—including executive leadership, managers, and individual contributors—by leveraging AI-powered technology that provides personalized, timely, and practical support at scale. Unlike traditional coaching methods or generic AI chatbots, Humantelligence integrates behavioral science (psychometrics) with real-time data insights to deliver actionable recommendations tailored to each individual’s unique preferences, abilities, work styles, motivators, and goals. With this modern approach to coaching and development:Employees have instant access within the tools they're already using to the feedback and guidance needed to navigate workplace challenges and stop conflicts before they even start. Teams benefit from enhanced collaboration tools that align with organizational culture. Leaders at all levels can make informed decisions based on unbiased data about team dynamics.This innovative approach bridges the gaps left by traditional coaching by providing solutions that are scalable across entire organizations while maintaining personalization and relevance. Key benefits include:Improved leadership & team effectiveness Less consultants and workshops (save $$) More effective onboarding, important for retention Less turnover and disengagementWhat's more, because this virtual AI coach is accessible to ALL employees, not just the high potential, companies can experience more than 3x the return on investment across the entire enterprise. Empowering Employees for Success As businesses continue to evolve in response to new challenges, it is clear that the traditional approach to professional coaching alone cannot meet the diverse needs of today’s workforce. Employees require development tools that offer real-time support grounded in organizational context while fostering personal growth and team performance. Humantelligence’s AI-powered platform empowers every employee to thrive in dynamic environments by delivering insights that drive better outcomes for individuals and organizations alike. Ready to start bridging the gaps? Explore how Humantelligence can transform your approach to employee development today!

The fusion of artificial intelligence (AI) within the fabric of our workplace's daily operations is reshaping not only how we work but how we connect with each other. While technology might seem like a cold mechanism, AI holds the potential to enhance the human touch in the workplace, creating more dynamic, engaging, and personalized experiences for employees. By integrating AI, the complex layers of human interactions and emotional intelligence can be amplified, offering a more human-centric approach to work -- AI that makes work more human. Overview of AI in the Workplace In the digital age, AI serves as a pivotal tool in transforming how organizations operate, particularly in recruitment, communication, and productivity enhancement. Whether it's automating mundane tasks, analyzing employee feedback, or facilitating cross-functional collaboration, AI efficiently addresses some of the workforce's most pressing needs. By utilizing AI's predictive capabilities and real-time analytics, companies can optimize workflows, ensuring that employees are both content and productive in a seamlessly integrated digital environment. The Importance of the Human Touch Human interaction in the workplace is crucial, as it fosters a sense of connection, empathy, and shared purpose. The nuances of human emotions and interpersonal relationships play a significant role in team dynamics and individual performance. AI should not be seen as a replacement for this essential human element. Instead, it can serve as a bridge, enabling deeper insights into team dynamics and facilitating environments where trust, empathy, and effective communication flourish. Ultimately, AI can help nurture a more emotionally intelligent workforce by providing personalized recommendations and insights that enhance the way we understand and respond to each other. AI's Role in Learning and Development Adapting to New Skills and Training Methods The workplace is experiencing a seismic shift with the growing reliance on remote and hybrid work models. This has accelerated the need for new learning and development (L&D) strategies. Traditional training methods, such as one-time workshops or external consultants, no longer meet the dynamic needs of today's workforce. Companies are transitioning to digital platforms that can provide on-demand, flexible learning experiences, which better support the way employees learn today. These platforms allow for the integration of reskilling and upskilling into daily workflows, fostering continuous professional growth. Personalized Learning via AI Personalized learning has emerged as a key component of effective L&D programs. AI-driven platforms can tailor educational content to individual career aspirations and learning styles, empowering employees to take ownership of their development journey. These platforms can provide adaptive learning paths, helping individuals focus on specific skills they need to advance in their roles. This approach not only enhances engagement but also aligns with today’s workforce that desires personal and professional growth opportunities. The Impact on Employee Retention A well-crafted L&D program significantly impacts employee retention. Research shows that employees are far more likely to stay with a company if they see clear paths for advancement and skill development. Companies that offer comprehensive training have witnessed higher income per employee and greater overall performance. Therefore, investing in personalized, AI-enhanced learning solutions can be a strategic advantage in retaining top talent and reducing turnover costs. Enhancing Communication and Collaboration with AI Bridging Gaps in Remote and Hybrid Work Setups The advent of remote work has posed challenges for maintaining effective communication and collaboration within teams. AI has the potential to bridge these gaps by facilitating seamless communication across different locations and times. AI-driven tools can manage virtual team interactions, ensuring that communication remains consistent and effective. They provide insights into team dynamics, enabling smoother transitions and interactions among distributed team members. Utilizing AI to Improve Emotional Intelligence AI technology can assist in enhancing emotional intelligence within teams by analyzing communication patterns and providing feedback. These insights help employees tailor their interactions to better suit their colleagues’ emotional and motivational preferences, fostering understanding and empathy. This capability is particularly beneficial in remote settings, where misunderstandings can easily occur due to the lack of non-verbal cues. Tools for Real-Time Communication Insights Modern AI-powered tools can deliver real-time insights during meetings and collaborative sessions. These tools analyze discussions, suggest relevant documents, and provide conversational prompts, thus improving the quality and outcome of communications. Additionally, AI can offer real-time translation services in global teams, ensuring language barriers do not impede collaboration. By integrating these tools into daily workflows, organizations enhance productivity and enable more meaningful interactions among team members. By leveraging AI in these areas, organizations can create a more human-centered work environment, fostering growth, better communication, and deeper connections among employees. This not only improves individual performance but also propels companies towards achieving higher overall objectives. Creating a Feedback-Driven Culture Fostering an environment where employees feel heard and valued has become more pertinent than ever. Modern workplaces demand an adaptive feedback culture that progresses beyond traditional annual performance reviews. AI’s Role in Continuous Feedback Mechanisms Artificial intelligence introduces a transformative approach to feedback in the workplace. By leveraging AI-driven platforms, organizations can seamlessly integrate feedback into daily workflows. AI tools can facilitate continuous feedback loops through employee engagement suites that incorporate psychometrics to enhance understanding. These platforms can provide insights into employees' work behaviors, motivators, and energizers, allowing managers to tailor feedback more effectively. Automated feedback reminders and real-time coaching tips can also encourage a culture of continuous improvement. This not only aids in addressing issues promptly but also in reinforcing positive behaviors, ultimately leading to enhanced employee satisfaction and retention. Building a Supportive and Inclusive Workplace AI also plays a crucial role in nurturing a supportive work environment by providing data-driven insights into team dynamics. AI tools can identify trends and patterns in employee behavior and sentiment, offering insights into workplace inclusivity and team cohesion. These insights empower HR professionals to make informed decisions on diversity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring that every team member feels valued and included. By promoting open communication and understanding, AI can help to dismantle existing barriers, fostering a more cohesive and inclusive work environment. Benefits of AI in Team Dynamics Harnessing AI’s potential in team settings can vastly improve how teams interact, collaborate, and perform in the workplace. Improving Team Collaboration with AI Insights Artificial intelligence can significantly enhance collaboration by analyzing communication patterns and providing insights into areas of improvement. AI tools assist teams by highlighting collaboration bottlenecks and facilitating more effective communication strategies. For instance, AI can recommend optimal communication practices tailored to individual team members based on their preferred communication styles. By understanding these nuances, teams can reduce miscommunication and enhance collective problem-solving capabilities. Enhancing Team Performance Metrics AI offers dynamic analytics capabilities that track and predict team performance metrics. These tools enable managers to pinpoint specific areas that require development and provide real-time feedback to align efforts with organizational goals. By utilizing predictive analytics, AI can forecast potential team challenges and suggest proactive measures, thus maintaining consistent team performance. Furthermore, AI's ability to personalize learning paths ensures that team members acquire the skills necessary to overcome challenges and contribute more meaningfully to team objectives. Overall, the integration of AI in the workplace is not about replacing human interaction but enhancing it. By promoting continuous feedback, supporting inclusive environments, and optimizing team dynamics, AI enriches the human touch at work, creating a more connected and humanized workforce. Final Thoughts Embracing AI tools in the workplace represents more than just technological advancement; it signifies a bridge to a more human-centric work environment. By enhancing emotional intelligence and offering personalized learning experiences, AI contributes significantly to fostering a culture of inclusion and connection. It's crucial for organizations to leverage AI not only as a tool for efficiency but as a means to enhance the human touch and impart genuine connection in daily interactions. This dual focus ensures that as we scale operations, we also nurture the vital human elements that drive engagement and productivity, ultimately creating workplaces where people feel valued, understood, and integral to their team's success.

This might be a hard pill to swallow, but if you’re thinking workshops and consultants, you’re going to miss the mark! Mandatory one-time workshops, expensive external consultants, certifications, and traditional classroom learning are simply dead on arrival. They don’t deliver sustained results. You can’t track them well. They don’t take your learners into consideration. And they’re counter intuitive to today’s need for personalized learning. The amount of people who work remotely at least once per week has grown by 400% since 2010, and as many teams now settle into remote or hybrid work models, a much-needed transformation in traditional learning & development is underway. This shift better supports people in how they now learn today, as reskilling, upskilling, cross training, and internal mobility continue to prove new and up until now, often untapped, sources of power for companies. Research from Lighthouse Research & Advisory shows that 88% of employees said they would stay at a job if they had career and growth opportunities ahead, but more than 60% have left a job in the past because they didn't see any way to advance. In addition, nearly 50% of talent professionals who responded to a LinkedIn survey said they expect their recruiting budget to continue to decrease, while 66% anticipate their L&D budget to increase or stay the same. This suggests employers will continue relying on building their workforce through internal mobility programs tied to reskilling initiatives and/or engage contingent talent instead of hiring externally. In this post, we’ll share suggestions--through the lens of pandemic-driven shifts--for leveraging technology and AI to implement and scale development programs with new ways of learning that aren’t just customized, but that also cross silos and aid in retaining and motivating employees to want to learn more.  Yes, technology that improves training efficiency, results, adoption of concepts, and on-going usage within workflows of employees. Key Features of the Modern Corporate Learning Experience Operating a successful business boils down to ensuring your workers are productive, happy, and actively engaged with activities that move the business forward. Chief Learning Officer at Allencomm -- a global learning developer and provider of custom content -- Anna Sargsyan recently told Human Resource Executive: These new demands of hybrid and remote work are tasking us with being much more intentional about learning design. Employee expectations around more human-centered learning are creating a need for more personalization within L&D, while leaders also have to be proactive to help distributed employees learn from one another despite the distance, create innovative approaches to non-classroom learning and ensure learning is accessible everywhere—in different formats and to all employees. In addition to supporting the employee experience, there’s enough evidence now to demonstrate that companies that promote a culture of learning perform better. Take this LinkedIn Learning course (quoting a McKinsey report) that shows companies offering comprehensive training programs have higher income per employee by as much as 200 percent. And for millennials, learning opportunities at a company are now the top metric in their likelihood to stay at a company. A PwC study found the same -- that “the current workforce is more motivated by personal and professional growth than they are by earning more money.” Critical to the success of any L&D program today, new digital tools have dramatically altered how, when and where we learn. Here’s a handful of the key features you should consider when launching or leveling up to a modern corporate learning experience. On-demand learning The brick and mortar professional development course is done. Instead of the rigid classroom model, learning should be part of employees’ daily workflow - at their desks, on their mobile phones, or from wherever they work. They’re much more likely to develop and retain information when they decide on the timing of their training, not when it is dictated by a mass group class. Let’s look at some statistics. Employees who have more control over the learning process and the opportunity to revisit training demonstrate retention rates of up to 60% vs that of 8% for in-person training. In addition, research shows that bite-sized learning makes the transfer of learning from the classroom to the desk 17% more efficient -- encouraging employees to further develop and retain the training, which maximizes effectiveness and value of the training you have delivered. Consumerization of learning Just as apps have changed the way we call cabs or watch movies, new digital learning tools also offer the same intuitive, engaging, and easy-to-use experience for people at work. Agile, cost-effective learning In an era of rapid technological change, learning has become critical for companies to stay up to speed. A modern learning platform accelerates learning program delivery to ensure the most up-to-date training reaches your employees quickly and efficiently. Self-awareness & coaching With a better awareness of team dynamics (aka a team’s culture), L&D leaders are working to understand individuals -- and ultimately creating and delivering programming that leverages a psychometrics-based platform to improve managers’ coaching, increase understanding of their teams, pave a pathway to building a stronger, better-connected team for purposes of more meaningful collaboration -- which leads to increased productivity and strong employee engagement. Consider this:66% of all employees are disengaged (Source: Gallup) 87% of highly engaged employees are less likely to leave (Source: The Muse) Only 25% of employers have an active engagement strategy (Source: The Muse)According to Smarp, companies that do have a high level of employee engagement are more profitable by a factor of 21%. So to more deeply understand what drives the engagement of your people, aside from skill building and growth opportunities, you also need to provide people with a centralized place to both give feedback to others and better understand themselves. Consider employee engagement suites that incorporate self-assessments designed to empower people with a better understanding of their work behaviors, motivators, and work energizers. When investing in engagement solutions, look for a centralized solution that consolidates key feedback-focused areas, such as: Career & development feedback Knowing that coaching and feedback are key to ongoing performance management and engagement, provide an easy way for employees to obtain and manage peer, 360-degree, subordinate and manager feedback more frequently. Pulse survey feedback Pulse your employees on important topics and get instant and consistent feedback to help you make informed operational, policy, programming, or strategy decisions. Be sure you can analyze data by different populations, as well as  product, territory, and functional groups. Performance management tracking Use a centralized learning or action management system to track performance and provide actionable content and assignments to help employees track performance, growth, and any new performance management processes. When you have psychometrics behind your AMS -- that is, a clear understanding of what motivates each and every team member and how he or she learns best -- you’re able to further individualize the content and activities, as you align employees around specific strategic goals, tasks, and actions. You can do this by company, by division, by territory, or by function – enabling you to deliver fast, measurable business results. Scalability & sustained results Finally, let’s talk results. How often have your employees come back from training only to pin some certificate in their cube without ever implementing what they learned in a meaningful way? The answer is a lot! In fact, within one hour of any training, most people retain less than half of what was presented. Then you spend your time figuring out ways to reinforce and re-engage those team members in what they already learned. It can feel like an exhausting never-ending cycle--making it difficult to scale your programming. The truth is, if participants can’t flex their muscles and practice what they have learned on an on-going basis after the training, they will most certainly forget it and revert to their old ways. But technology exists today that can bring your team’s development program learnings into the participants’ daily workflows, allowing them to practice what they have learned in a real live work situation without breaking away from their work. This ability is a game changer for post-program adoption and retention. It's AI that operationalizes the application of what has been an in-person, workshop-based, self-service eLibrary model into each employee's day-to-day work. The result: watch ROI go from 1-2 uses per year of content to 200-300 times per year. Think what Grammarly did to vocabulary and grammar usage for individuals, but with insights within workflows for self-development, understanding, and all the soft-skills needed for better leadership, training, and team effectiveness. The needs of the global corporate training and learning market will continue to evolve, and in the increasingly complex world of the Future of Work, individualized, adaptive training journeys, including tailored and scalable micro-courses with real-world practice opportunities built into employees' everyday workflows, will help people thrive in remote and hybrid work environments.

In today's workforce, collaboration -- specifically collaborating with Gen Z -- is key to achieving success. And as organizations become more diverse, it is essential to understand and effectively work with team members from different generations. In particular, Generation Z (Gen Z), which refers to individuals born between 1997 and 2012, has unique characteristics and work styles that require HR professionals and team leaders to adapt their strategies. From embracing AI tools to providing training tailored to Gen Z, this article will help you navigate the challenges of working with Gen Z team members and foster intergenerational dynamics for a more collaborative and productive workplace. Understanding the Gen Z mindset Understanding the Gen Z mindset in the workplace is crucial when it comes to collaborating with Gen Z. As digital natives, Gen Z individuals have grown up surrounded by technology, which has had a profound impact on their thoughts and behaviors. This generation values instant gratification, diversity, and individuality. They are known for their entrepreneurial spirit and desire for meaningful work. Understanding these characteristics will enable HR professionals and team leaders to tailor their approach and create a collaborative environment that resonates with Gen Z team members. One way to understand the Gen Z mindset is by recognizing their desire for continuous learning and growth. This generation thrives on new challenges and opportunities to acquire new skills. By providing ongoing training and development programs, organizations can harness the full potential of Gen Z team members. Moreover, acknowledging their preference for a diverse workplace will foster an inclusive and collaborative environment. In the next section, we will delve deeper into strategies for effectively communicating with Gen Z team members and how to leverage their digital skills to drive collaboration. Stay tuned for an in-depth exploration of the Gen Z mindset and practical tips for working collaboratively with this generation. How to create a collaborative work environment Creating a collaborative work environment is essential for effectively working with Gen Z team members. This generation thrives in environments that promote teamwork, communication, and collaboration. Here are some strategies to foster collaboration:Encourage open communication: Gen Z team members appreciate transparency and value open communication. Create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their ideas, opinions, and concerns. Regularly schedule team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and one-on-one check-ins to facilitate open dialogue. Embrace flexible work arrangements: Gen Z individuals value work-life balance and appreciate flexibility. Consider implementing flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible working hours. This will help them feel empowered and motivated to contribute their best work. Utilize technology tools: Gen Z team members are tech-savvy and comfortable with various digital tools. Leverage technology platforms and collaborative software to streamline communication, project management, and document sharing. This will enhance productivity and efficiency. Foster a supportive culture: Create a culture of support and empowerment, in which team members feel valued and encouraged to contribute their unique perspectives. Recognize and reward their achievements, and provide constructive feedback to help them grow professionally.By leading with these strategies, you can create a collaborative work environment that engages and motivates Gen Z team members, leading to increased productivity and better outcomes for your organization. Leveraging technology for collaborating with Gen Z Leveraging technology is paramount for effective collaboration with Gen Z team members. This generation is highly skilled in utilizing digital tools and expects to have access to the latest technology in the workplace. By incorporating technology into your collaboration efforts, you can enhance communication, streamline project management, and foster a sense of connectedness among team members. For example, it is wise to invest in a psychometric-based tool that helps teams better understand each other so they can collaborate and connect more meaningfully in meetings, on Slack, or via email. Utilizing technology doesn’t only bridge the generation gap but also makes the younger generation feel valued and needed in the workplace. Investing in collaboration platforms and applications will also enable real-time communication and document sharing, eliminating the need for back-and-forth emails and increasing efficiency. Gen Zers are accustomed to instant messaging and video conferencing, so consider implementing tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams for seamless communication. Fortunately, it’s also easy to leverage AI tools to kick your training and internal communication up a notch. Say you have a new Gen Z hire that needs to email the head of sales, John, every week with reported leads. The problem is, they hardly know John, and have no idea how John likes to consume information. With an AI tool that utilizes your company's previously recorded psychometric data, the new hire can use pre-supplemented suggestions to ensure their emails are comprehensive and useful for John, despite having never interacted with him before. This AI-fueled approach to “on-the-fly” training can extend beyond emails to all communications, ultimately helping Gen Z employees learn new skills and making their contributions to the business more impactful. Additionally, project management tools such as Trello or Asana can help keep everyone on track, assign tasks, and monitor progress. By utilizing technology in these ways, you can create a collaborative work environment that aligns with the preferences and expectations of Gen Z, ultimately leading to improved teamwork and successful outcomes. Communication strategies with Gen Z team members Effective communication is essential for successful collaboration with Gen Z team members. This generation has grown up with instant messaging and social media, and they prefer quick and concise communication methods. Here are some strategies to enhance collaboration through communication: First, establish clear expectations regarding communication channels. Discuss with your Gen Z team members which platforms they prefer for specific types of communication, such as formal emails for official updates and instant messaging for quick questions or updates. Second, encourage open and transparent communication. Gen Z team members value authenticity and appreciate when their opinions and ideas are heard. Create a safe and inclusive space where they can freely express themselves. Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of visuals and multimedia in your communication. This is, after all, the video generation! Gen Z team members respond well to visual content, so consider incorporating infographics, videos, and images to convey information in a more engaging way. By implementing these communication strategies, you can foster a collaborative environment where Gen Z team members feel valued and can contribute their best work. Nurturing a culture of inclusivity and diversity Nurturing a culture of inclusivity and diversity is crucial when working effectively with Gen Z team members. This generation values equality and appreciates a diverse and inclusive work environment. Here are some ways to promote inclusivity and diversity within your team: First, educate yourself and your team on the importance of inclusivity and diversity. Understand the different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences that each team member brings to the table. Encourage open dialogue and discussions about diversity-related topics. Second, establish inclusive policies and practices. Consider implementing initiatives such as unconscious bias training, diverse recruitment strategies, and equal representation in decision-making processes. Celebrate and recognize the contributions of every team member. Encourage a culture of appreciation and respect for diversity by giving credit where it is due and acknowledging the unique skills and perspectives that Gen Z team members bring. By creating an inclusive and diverse work environment, you can foster collaboration with and innovation among Gen Z team members, leading to better overall team performance. Recognizing and appreciating Gen Z contributions Gen Z team members are incredibly talented and innovative individuals who bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. Recognizing and appreciating their contributions is essential for fostering collaboration and maintaining a positive work environment. Here are some ways to ensure that Gen Z team members feel valued and appreciated: Firstly, provide regular feedback and recognition. Gen Z employees thrive on feedback and appreciation for their work. Take the time to acknowledge their achievements and skills, whether it's through a simple thank you note or a public commendation in team meetings. By doing so, you are not only boosting their morale but also motivating them to continue delivering exceptional results. Next, provide opportunities for growth and development. Gen Z employees are keen on continuous learning and professional development. Offer them opportunities to attend workshops, conferences, or training programs. This investment in their growth will show that you value their career advancement and are committed to their long-term success. Lastly, involve Gen Z team members in decision-making processes. Their fresh perspectives can offer valuable insights and innovative solutions. Encourage them to participate in brainstorming sessions or include them in projects that require creative thinking and problem-solving. By doing so, you are empowering them to contribute to the team's success and instilling a sense of ownership in their work. Acknowledging Gen Z team members for their contributions is crucial for creating a collaborative and productive work environment. By offering feedback, providing growth opportunities, and involving them in decision-making, you are not only fostering their professional development but also maximizing their potential to drive innovation within the team. Overcoming challenges working with Gen Z While Gen Z team members bring immense talent and a fresh perspective to the table, it's important to acknowledge that there may be some challenges in working with them – just like any generation that’s entered the workforce. Understanding and addressing these challenges can significantly enhance collaboration and teamwork. One common challenge is the need for constant feedback and validation. In fact, new studies show that at least a couple of times a week, more than half of Gen Z, 54%, want praise from bosses for their efforts at work, according to data by Australian research firm McCrindle. Almost three in five Gen Zers seek constructive feedback about how they can improve in their role at least a couple of times per week. Gen Z is also accustomed to receiving instant gratification and may expect constant praise for their work. As a leader, it's crucial to set clear expectations and provide constructive feedback regularly while balancing praise to maintain motivation. Another challenge lies in effectively managing their technological reliance. Gen Z employees are highly tech-savvy and prefer digital communication channels. It's important to establish clear boundaries and guidelines for communication to ensure effective collaboration while also providing opportunities for face-to-face interactions to foster stronger relationships within the team. Additionally, Gen Z employees value work-life balance and prioritize flexibility. To ensure their productivity and satisfaction, consider offering flexible work hours or remote work options whenever possible. By addressing these areas, leaders can create a collaborative environment that maximizes the potential of Gen Z team members while maintaining productivity and teamwork. The benefits of effectively collaborating with Gen Z In the end, collaborating effectively with Gen Z team members can bring numerous benefits to an organization. Harnessing their unique skills and perspectives can lead to innovative solutions and fresh ideas. Gen Z employees are often tech-savvy and can offer valuable insights into utilizing digital tools and platforms to streamline processes and enhance productivity. By encouraging collaboration, leaders can tap into the creativity and resourcefulness of Gen Z team members, leading to increased efficiency and problem-solving capabilities. Furthermore, effective collaboration with Gen Z team members fosters a positive and inclusive work culture. By embracing their need for constant feedback and validation, leaders can build a supportive environment where individuals feel heard and valued. This, in turn, boosts morale, motivation, and engagement among Gen Z employees, resulting in higher job satisfaction and decreased turnover rates. Embracing collaborating with Gen Z for organizational success Collaboration is an essential component for organizational success in today's fast-paced and evolving business landscape. This is especially true when it comes to working effectively with Gen Z team members. In this article, we have explored the numerous benefits that come from collaborating with Gen Zers in the workplace, along with different tactics that can empower you to build successful partnerships with this talented generation.From their tech-savviness and ability to offer valuable insights into digital tools and platforms, to their creativity and resourcefulness, Gen Z team members bring a fresh perspective that can enhance productivity and problem-solving capabilities. By embracing their need for constant feedback and validation, leaders can create a positive and inclusive work culture that fosters high morale, motivation, and engagement. We have also discussed the challenges that may arise when collaborating with Gen Z employees. However, armed with the actionable strategies and techniques, you will be well-equipped to overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of collaboration with Gen Z team members. If you’re looking for ways to tailor your onboarding, training, and collaboration strategies for Gen Z, we can help.