When we think of training, coaching, mentoring, just to name a few of the methods in our marketplace we tend to gravitate to things like behavioral change or skill building or talent development. At the foundation of anything an adult learner does is their personal attitude. An attitude is a choice, a skill set, and a behavioral attribute that must be practiced and nurtured on a continuous basis. I cannot tell you enough times I have heard from clients when they feel like they've hit a barrier with a particular employee or group of employees they mention attitude is the primary source. An employee with a negative or evasive attitude cannot fully embrace any learning process to its fullest capacity. For example, if an employee is struggling with his or her boss and then are asked to role-play during a training session they are at minimum distracted. An employee who possesses the attitude of not willing or wanting to change due to their own comfort will never embrace training or coaching when new elements are presented such as new products or changes within the organization.
We tend to address attitude with employees only when they are exhibited or displayed negatively. On the other hand, if companies would make a dedicated effort to fueling their employees mines with positive related material and content it will not only counter negative influences, but also drive positive attitudes to enable adult learners to operate at the fullest capacity. We deliver a program called Ducks versus Eagles which prompts employees to listen or watch inspirational material along with performing random acts of kindness in the workplace. Managers will literally contact us and say their employees have dramatically changed. We know the employees have not dramatically changed but what we do know is that can make dramatic change over a period of time. If we do not fuel our employees minds with positive material we leave it to chance by them watching things such as the evening news. If we gave enough attention to attitude development and nurturing we may not need as much training, coaching, or mentoring.
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