Building Business Acumen: Skills to Empower the Learning Function - Tapa dura

"The topics explored throughout this book bring much-needed knowledge to learning-industry professionals in a pragmatic, yet highly informative manner. The timing of this volume could not possibly be better for learning professionals seeking to communicate the important bridge between organizational learning and the success of strategic business imperatives." ?Kathy Watt, manager, Business Development, College of Extended Learning, University of New Brunswick "This book admirably fills a serious gap in the professional practice of learning and performance?lack of business savvy. It is clearly written, case-based, concrete and comprehensive. I especially appreciated the financial and return-on-investment content. I was also delighted that it contains material on Human Performance Technology. I will recommend this volume to my students, colleagues and corporate clients." ?Harold D. Stolovitch, emeritus professor, Universite de Montreal, principal, HSA Learning & Performance Solutions LLC, and author Telling Ain't Training and Training Ain't Performance "This engaging book is absolutely essential for human resource professionals! It should be required reading for everyone in our field.? ?Jill Russell, principal and founding director, TPO HR "Some of the jewels of this book are it explains the language of finance; it provides practical advice on how to communicate the case for investing in development initiatives, and it is full of guidance on how to collaborate with the business to determine the payback of investing in development solutions. The case studies used throughout the book brings ideas to life in an exciting way. This is one of those books every HR, HRD, and training professional should have." ?Judith A. Hale, author,Outsourcing Training and Development: Factors for Success "Relevance is in the eye of the beholder. And for training professionals who want to earn a seat at the strategic planning table, nothing can help build corporate relevance better than applying the skills outlined in this book which will show you how to turn training into business results." ?Marty Fisher, vice president, Stores HR and Training, Abercrombie and Fitch "If today?s aspiring Learning professionals don?t read this book, they will miss an opportunity to gain that ultimate competitive advantage that will revitalize their career into becoming a true business player. The primer on financial tools, business partnering and dynamic communication strategies described in this book are excellent. The book has integrated a number of innovative learning concepts, tools and methodologies that weave a comprehensive business learning roadmap for Learning professionals to attain greater business acumen and be on top of their game." ?Francesca Bleck, director, human resources, Technical Learning & Development, Lafarge North America and Latin America, Corporate Technical Services "Changes in our industry have revealed the critical need for knowledge and skills in business acumen?the area Business Acumen for Trainers specifically and uniquely addresses. This is a must read book for anyone in a training position today or in the future." ?Wes Parker, national curriculum manager, Management & Employee Development, Verizon Wireless

As a training and development or human resource professional, do you have the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to become an indispensable strategic partner within your organization? Building Business Acumen for Trainers provides step-by-step practical advice on business practices guaranteed to win the support, respect, and attention of your organization. Written for both new and seasoned professionals, this essential resource will show how to put into practice the three critical areas of business acumen: * Finance skills * Partnering skills * Communication skills