You know that eureka moment when you stumble upon something new and feel an almost unstoppable urge to shout it from the rooftops? Well, that’s the essence of the "loud learning" trend: boldly broadcasting your professional learning goals and progress as if you're waving a banner for all to see.

Imagine learning as a journey, and instead of quietly traversing the path, you’re blazing a trail with a torch held high, inviting others to walk alongside you. When you wear your intention to learn on your sleeve, you no longer have to tiptoe around your desire to grow during the working day – as if it were some kind of guilty pleasure.

By being upfront about your learning, you not only invite guidance and career opportunities but also spark conversations that can lead to brilliant new ideas. Transparency becomes your megaphone, amplifying your passion for learning and echoing through the halls of your workplace, drawing in feedback and fresh perspectives like a magnet.

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Why loud learning is your ticket to continuous upskilling

Many professionals are eager to keep their knowledge fountain flowing, but the daily grind and mountain of tasks often turn that fountain into a trickle. It's easy to feel like you’re stealing time from your responsibilities when you carve out moments for training.

However, "loud learning" flips this script on its head. It encourages you to proclaim, loud and proud, that you're investing in your growth – and to share that wealth of knowledge with your colleagues, so they too can drink from the well.

But why is it so crucial to carve out time for learning?

Continuous learning is the lifeline that keeps professionals from drifting into irrelevance. Upskilling isn’t just a feather in your cap anymore; it’s the key to staying competitive in a world where technology is rewriting the rules of the game.

From Artificial Intelligence to blockchain, these advancements are like tidal waves reshaping the shorelines of industries, and professionals must ride the wave or risk being swept away. Employers are on the lookout for those who aren’t just content to float along but are actively steering their careers by acquiring new skills.

This proactive approach makes you a beacon in the job market, signalling your readiness to grow and adapt – traits that are highly prized.

Continuous learning also opens doors to new horizons, unlocking opportunities for promotion, higher salaries, and more fulfilling roles. It’s like adding new tools to your toolkit, making you ready to tackle fresh challenges or even pivot into new fields. Moreover, it’s a breeding ground for creativity and innovation, fuelling both personal and organisational growth.

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How to build a learning culture

Despite these compelling reasons, finding time for training is easier said than done. LinkedIn's research shows that nearly half of professionals believe that "loud learning" can be the ladder to career growth. In Australia, for example, a staggering 90% of professionals feel that exhaustion, burnout, and family responsibilities are roadblocks on their learning journey.

Loud learning is about taking the reins and making your educational pursuits not just visible but impossible to ignore. By sharing your learning goals and progress openly, you create a ripple effect, fostering an environment where personal and professional growth are celebrated.

Many professionals find themselves in a tug-of-war between learning and job responsibilities. Loud learning can tip the scales by normalising the idea of dedicating work hours to skill development, leading to a healthier work-life balance and easing the pressure of learning on your own time.

By embracing this approach, you’re not just sharpening your own tools – you’re helping to build a culture of continuous learning within your organisation.

The ripple effects of loud learning extend far beyond personal development. By openly discussing your learning objectives, you contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing within your organisation. This can swing open doors to new career opportunities and advancements while also creating a workplace that thrives on collaboration and innovation.

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Here’s how loud learning can supercharge your upskilling efforts:

Visibility and accountability

When you put your learning plans out there for all to see, it’s like planting a flag in the ground. According to research, over half of Australian professionals find that when their learning goals are out in the open, it’s easier to carve out time for skill-building. With your colleagues aware of your goals, they can become your cheerleaders, urging you on and keeping you on track.

Time blocking

A clever strategy is to carve out specific time slots on your calendar for learning, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day. Like drops in a bucket, these small efforts add up over time, helping you stay the course and demonstrating your commitment to continuous learning to your peers.

Sharing your journey

Posting updates about your learning progress, whether at work or on platforms like LinkedIn, can be like lighting a beacon. It not only inspires others but also sparks conversations that can lead to meaningful connections and insights. By sharing your experiences, you help build a learning community that encourages others to embark on their own upskilling journeys.

Finding a learning buddy

Pairing up with a "learning BFF" is like having a trusty co-pilot on your learning journey. They can keep you accountable, share nuggets of wisdom, and introduce you to new tools and resources, making the road to upskilling less lonely and more enjoyable.

Leveraging AI

Advances in AI, such as LinkedIn's new expert advice feature, are like having a mentor on call, offering tailored, practical guidance from industry leaders. This access to specialised knowledge can be a game-changer, enhancing your learning experience.

Building a learning community

Engage in LinkedIn Groups and contribute to collaborative articles to exchange insights and perspectives with like-minded professionals. It's like joining a think tank, where ideas are shared and knowledge is collectively built.