The L&D Must Change Blog

Welcome to the L&D Must Change Blog where we dish out practical tips, insights, and real talk for leaders ready to become true business partners.

Alignment | L&D Operations | Measurement | Stakeholders
Strategic Business Partner | Strategy

Strategic Business Partner Jess Almlie Strategic Business Partner Jess Almlie

How to Spot an L&D Pro Working as a Strategic Business Partner

Ever wonder what it takes for L&D leaders to transition from order-takers to true business partners? Strategic L&D pros aren’t just reactive; they’re invited early to the table, foster strong relationships, and collaborate deeply with stakeholders. Discover the three key signs of a Strategic Business Partner and learn how to spot a potential mentor in your own organization.

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Stakeholders Jess Almlie Stakeholders Jess Almlie

Combatting Stakeholder Silence

Picture this: For months, you've been working hard on the strategy for a new learning program. You confidently present it to key stakeholders, looking for their commitment to back it. They ask some good questions then say you did a good job. The meeting ends. Now what?

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Measurement, Alignment Jess Almlie Measurement, Alignment Jess Almlie

Measurement in L&D? We've Got It All Wrong.

I've noticed a trend in the way those of us in these areas think about measurement. I think we've got it all wrong.

We tend to see measurement as a necessary evil. We didn't go into this profession to run numbers and most of us aren't particularly good at it. But over the years demands from executives and those who hold the checkbooks started to necessitate we measure and report.

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5 Stakeholder Groups You Must Include as Partners

If you are an L&D leader working towards becoming a more strategic business partner, it's likely you are already developing trusted relationships with stakeholders throughout the business. It's no secret that a solid relationship with the right people is one of the most important factors in moving away from working as an order taker and towards working as a strategic business partner. But have you included all of the relevant groups in that mix?

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Strategy Carly Schroeder Strategy Carly Schroeder

Strategy and Details - Can We Do Both at Once?

Navigating both strategy and detailed tasks is tough—and sometimes, it’s impossible to do them simultaneously. This post explores why we often get buried in details, leaving little room for strategic thinking, and offers practical steps to create space for both.

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