Talent and Career Development

Advances and rise in the use of technology, increased emphasis on flexibility and a need for continuous upskilling to adapt to new and emergent roles has meant careers have become non-linear. This requires individuals to be more self-aware, have the ability to horizon scan and build networks to pro-actively seek opportunities. Yet many people feel unclear about how to move forward – research suggests that only around a third feel confident navigating their career within their organisation. The focus is typically on ‘where am I going?’ and ‘how do I get there?’ with very little engagement with ‘why?’ and ‘who am I and what matters to me?’.

In a more fluid and opportunity-driven world of work, strong professional networks are critical to career progression. Many roles, projects and opportunities are shaped through relationships and conversations, not just formal processes. However, networking is often misunderstood, disliked or underutilised, with individuals unsure how to approach it authentically or strategically.

This workshop reframes networking as a purposeful, values-led approach to building meaningful professional relationships. Learners will discuss common beliefs, assumptions and fears about networking and will explore how to re-frame these positively. Learners will analyse their current networks and identify gaps and opportunities using tools such as network mapping and stakeholder analysis. They will explore their personal brand and develop strategies for building visibility, strengthening relationships and engaging others in a way that feels authentic and aligned to their goals. The workshop also provides opportunities to practise networking conversations and plan specific actions to grow and sustain their network over time.

Effective career development conversations are a critical driver of engagement, retention and performance – yet they are often inconsistent or avoided altogether. By understanding the skills, motivation and aspirations of individuals, line managers play a pivotal role in supporting individuals in navigating development opportunities and making career choices. Without the confidence, skills or structure to do this well, opportunities for growth, alignment and inclusion can be missed.

This highly practical and interactive workshop equips line managers with the mindset, tools and techniques to lead meaningful career conversations and support effective career planning. Learners will explore what an effective career conversation is, understand how to balance individual aspirations with organisational needs and ways to create development opportunities through job design, stretch and learning. Through discussion, skills practice and working with ‘live’ career dilemmas, managers will build confidence in initiating and sustaining these conversations as part of everyday leadership.

In a fast-changing and increasingly complex world of work, the ability to learn, adapt and apply new learning quickly is critical to both individual and organisational success. Individuals need to continuously evolve their skills, respond to new challenges and navigate uncertainty with confidence. Learning agility, the ability to learn from experience and apply that learning in new and unfamiliar situations, is widely recognised as a key differentiator for effectiveness, performance and long-term career progression.

Learners will explore the core components of learning agility, including seeking feedback, experimenting with new approaches, working with ambiguity and learning from experience. They will assess their current strengths and areas for development and examine how their approach to learning influences their effectiveness, behaviours and career opportunities.