What is ‘loud learning’ and how can it help you upskill at work?

The lecturer asked for input, and I was desperate for him to ignore me. I knew the answer, but if I came off mute, he would realise I was listening with one ear in, while also cooking dinner, adjudicating an argument with my kids, and checking Teams to make sure nothing from the work day needed my attention.

I’m not the only professional trying to upskill who thought, “Something’s gotta’ give”.

The answer for me was loud learning.

Loud learning is a popular new workplace trend that sees Aussie professionals being vocal and intentional about learning in the workplace.

For me, it meant sharing my plans to study with my boss, and where appropriate, carving out time in the work day to sit in on lecturers. For you, it could be making a short course part of your performance goals, and speaking confidently to teammates about what you’re learning and why.

Learning a new skill isn’t easy, and we all face barriers before even starting. LinkedIn research shows 90% of professionals say they are being held back from upskilling because of feeling exhausted and burnt out, as well as a lack of time due to family responsibilities and other personal commitments.

So, how can loud learning help? By letting people know that you plan on studying a new skill, you give them the chance to help, and 54% of Aussie professionals feel the practice helps them dedicate time to improve their skills.

Other benefits from loud learning include encouraging knowledge and insights sharing among peers and opening doors to new career opportunities or advancement.

As we navigate the fast pace of change generative AI is bringing to workplaces, now, more than ever, it’s critical that professionals develop new and diverse skill sets to help advance their careers.

For professionals looking to prioritise and commit time towards learning, here are my top tips:

Be vocal by blocking out time for learning: Time-blocking your calendar is a simple way to commit to learning a new skill and for others to see you doing it. You could start with committing even just 15 minutes a day and that can help you stay on track.
Post updates on your learning journey at work and on LinkedIn: Sharing your learning journey can encourage others. Share about your learning progress and how you overcame barriers with your colleagues and your LinkedIn network. This could help to spark discussions and might just inspire others to also dedicate time towards learning.
Buddy up with a learning BFF: A supportive learning BFF can make the process less daunting and more enjoyable while also holding you to account. Share insights and hold one another to your learning commitments to stay motivated throughout your learning journeys. A learning BFF can also help to broaden your learning toolkit by introducing you to new tools and resources.
Leverage AI to supercharge your learning experience: Imagine finding an expert in their field and having a one-to-one conversation on topics they specialise in like negotiation, well-being, or business strategy. LinkedIn’s new expert advice, powered by AI, that is being piloted has the ability to provide you personalised practical advice instantly from industry leading business leaders and coaches on LinkedIn Learning.
Build your learning community: Engage in discussions on LinkedIn Groups – online communities where like-minded professionals come together to share insights around different topics. You can also contribute to collaborative articles to further exchange diverse perspectives.