In 2024, CC launched an innovative up-skilling initiative aimed at empowering its Account Executive (AE) team, known as Lunchtime Learning. This initiative has already helped the team grow and thrive in new ways. But what exactly is Lunchtime Learning, and why is it so important for personal and professional growth? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Lunchtime Learning?
Lunchtime Learning is a weekly initiative where the Account Executive team dedicates time during their lunch hour to develop new skills, share insights, and collaborate. Every Monday, the team gathers for a learning session on a variety of topics that are designed to boost both individual and collective performance. The sessions are structured to be engaging and practical so our AEs can immediately apply what they’ve learned in their roles.
An innovative up-skilling initiative aimed at empowering its Account Executive team
The content of these sessions varies. Sometimes we get industry professionals to chat with us, such as guest speakers from Everlytic, a service provider that CC frequently collaborates with in development. Other times, the learning is more internal, with AEs sharing their experiences and lessons from completed projects. These project debriefs provide valuable insights, as the team can talk through challenges, successes, and takeaways from their work.
Additionally, Heads of Departments also present on various topics, helping to fill knowledge gaps and provide a broader understanding of the wider resources within the company. As Account Executives, AEs need to have a strong grasp of how different departments function, so they can effectively manage client expectations and brief projects with a clear understanding of internal processes. By having departmental heads share their expertise, AEs are able to get this information hot from the source and ask relevant questions on the spot.
The Importance of Knowledge Sharing
One of the key objectives of Lunchtime Learning is to create a culture of knowledge sharing within the team. This idea stems from the recognition that, while experience is crucial in the industry, it’s not always the most efficient way to accelerate learning and growth.
During the Heads 2024 strategy meeting, the concept was pitched, highlighting a common belief in the industry that “experience is everything.” While it’s true that hands-on experience plays a crucial role in career development, it often fosters the notion that growth is purely time-based. The phrase “time in the saddle” is commonly used, suggesting that the more time spent in a role, the more one will learn. However, this approach can sometimes feel discouraging for those who feel their progress is slower than expected despite their continuous efforts.
This is where Lunchtime Learning comes in. Rather than waiting for experience to accumulate over time, knowledge sharing allows AEs to “gallop” ahead in the saddle. The concept behind this is that by learning from the experiences of others, you can fast-track your own learning without needing to go through the same trials and errors. It’s about accelerating growth through shared knowledge.
Practical Benefits of Lunchtime Learning for AEs
By dedicating time each week to learning, we’re building a culture where personal growth is a shared responsibility. Each AE is empowered to help and learn from each other. This shared approach to learning ensures that no one is left behind and every member of the team has the resources they need to succeed.
In conclusion, Lunchtime Learning is more than just a training initiative, it’s a cultural shift that prioritises knowledge sharing, collaboration, and continuous development. In a fast-paced industry where each project is unique, this approach helps every AE do more than just “sit” in the saddle, it lets them gallop.
A Culture of Continuous Learning
By dedicating time each week to learning, we’re building a culture where personal growth is a shared responsibility. Each AE is empowered to help and learn from each other. This shared approach to learning ensures that no one is left behind and every member of the team has the resources they need to succeed.
In conclusion, Lunchtime Learning is more than just a training initiative, it’s a cultural shift that prioritises knowledge sharing, collaboration, and continuous development. In a fast-paced industry where each project is unique, this approach helps every AE do more than just “sit” in the saddle, it lets them gallop.
