Connecting to strategy: which soft skills support strategic priorities?
The process of connecting training to strategy begins with discussions about strategic objectives. Typically, clients present their strategic plans during meetings, providing context and highlighting key priorities. These conversations help clarify the situation, and we agree on receiving strategic materials for further analysis.
Our Learning Success Management team aligns content with the priorities identified in the client’s materials and discussions. This process incorporates content that is included in the collaboration, the client’s existing resources, and Academy of Brain’s extensive catalog. Based on this alignment, we develop a content plan aimed at supporting strategy implementation.
“Alignment involves going beyond keywords and general descriptions. For example, we don’t just match all teamwork-related content to a team-building need. Instead, if the strategy emphasizes a culture of appreciation, knowledge sharing, and trust, we select content that directly addresses these aspects. We then propose tailored solutions by drawing on the client’s and our own content.” – Iines Vuorjoki, Learning Success Manager
Clients can confidentially share their strategic priorities with us, and we identify the most relevant content to bring the strategy to life. The result is a significant time savings. Our experts quickly and efficiently select content that fits the situation by analyzing it beyond just titles and descriptions, delving into the video narratives, perspectives, and intended audiences.
“If a client has access to our entire library—around 500 videos—it would take considerable time to identify the most suitable content for their needs. We streamline this process, saving clients a great deal of effort and time.” – Iines
What’s next? Once the content has been selected and the content plan approved, we move on to creating an annual plan. This involves determining schedule. Read below about the annual plan and the benefits of it.
Practical implementation: how soft skills support strategy
Once the annual plan is approved, it’s time for practical implementation on the client’s side. This involves tools like the communication calendar, pre-prepared communication materials, and automated messaging. Crucially, it also includes designing and structuring the learning environment. Themes can be categorized based on the strategy or core values, ensuring that the strategy is clearly visible to staff within the learning platform.
At this stage, the broader Learning Success Management process plays a key role. The client’s dedicated Learning Success Manager monitors progress and provides support. Together, we review reports, assess the effectiveness of communications, and refine materials as needed. We analyze successes and challenges, continuously improving the approach based on feedback. Regular quarterly meetings with clients—sometimes more frequently—ensure flexibility to adapt plans and materials to evolving needs.
“By integrating learning into the strategy, it becomes a valuable tool for leaders, too. For example, managers can use it to assess their team’s current state and guide development efforts accordingly. Clear visibility of strategic development areas within the learning platform supports not just HR but also leadership, managers, teams, and individuals.” – Iines
We are here to support you in implementing your strategy
Strategy Implementation is Not a One-Off Project but a Long-Term Process. We support strategic learning by aligning soft skills content with your strategic priorities, creating an annual plan complete with tailored messaging, and enhancing your team’s learning through increased reflective skills.
Our recipe for success combines continuous learning in daily routines, interactive communication, collaborative learning paths, impact monitoring, and showcasing achievements.
Shall we discuss how workplace skills could help implement your strategy as well?
