This session explores the benefits of getting closer to the business by understanding the organization's purpose and long-term goals. It covers two methods for this, starting at the top with the CEO or running a bottom-up approach, and discusses when and how often it should be done. Once the organization's purpose is understood, the information can be used in the L&D department and potentially in recruitment and internal communication.

Understanding your organisation's purpose - and putting it to use

We often talk about the need for L&D to ‘get closer to the business’. This session explores what happens when you really do that – work closely with an organisation to understand its purpose and long-term aims, or ‘horizon goals’. We’ll explore two methods for this: by starting at the top with the CEO, and by running a bottom-up approach.

We’ll discuss which approach to take, and when. We’ll also consider whether to do this as a one-off exercise, at intervals, or as a continuous process. And once you understand your organisation’s purpose and goals, what do you do with the information? You will use it in the work of the L&D department, but it might be an opportunity to do more – in particular to help with recruitment, and in ensuring that those furthest from the centre are reminded of where the organisation is headed.

• Different ways of understanding organisational purpose
• Getting close to your CEO and understanding their aims
• Sharing purpose in onboarding and leadership training
• Linking purpose to the general work of L&D
• Working with the recruitment and internal communications teams