How can global account managers take charge of their own learning and development?

1 Assess your strengths and gaps

The first step is to identify your current competencies and areas for improvement. You can use various tools, such as self-assessments, feedback surveys, performance reviews, or coaching sessions, to evaluate your skills and knowledge in relation to your goals and expectations. Be honest and objective about your strengths and weaknesses, and prioritize the most critical and relevant skills for your role and clients.

2 Set your learning objectives

The next step is to define your learning objectives and plan your learning activities. You can use the SMART framework to make your objectives specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, you might want to improve your cultural awareness, negotiation skills, or digital literacy. Then, you can choose the best learning methods and resources to suit your needs, preferences, and availability. These could include online courses, podcasts, webinars, books, articles, mentors, peers, or experts.

3 Implement your learning plan

The third step is to put your learning plan into action and track your progress and results. You can use a learning journal, a calendar, or a dashboard to record your learning activities, outcomes, and feedback. You can also use various tools, such as quizzes, tests, simulations, or assignments, to measure your learning achievements and gaps. Be consistent and disciplined in your learning efforts, and celebrate your milestones and successes.

4 Reflect on your learning experience

The fourth step is to reflect on your learning experience and evaluate its impact on your performance and satisfaction. You can use various techniques, such as self-review, peer review, or client feedback, to assess how your learning has improved your skills, knowledge, and confidence. You can also use various methods, such as case studies, stories, or portfolios, to showcase your learning results and achievements. Be critical and constructive in your reflection, and identify what worked well and what needs improvement.

5 Update your learning plan

The final step is to update your learning plan based on your reflection and feedback. You can use the PDCA cycle (plan-do-check-act) to continuously monitor and adjust your learning objectives, activities, and outcomes. You can also use the 70-20-10 model (70% experiential learning, 20% social learning, 10% formal learning) to balance your learning sources and modes. Be flexible and agile in your learning approach, and embrace new opportunities and challenges.

By taking charge of your own learning and development, you can enhance your skills and performance as a global account manager and deliver more value and satisfaction to your clients and yourself.