Learning Technology
neuroscience for
BY JACK CRAINE
There is currently a real buzz around the world of neuroscience. This is not surprising as the latest developments have important implications not just for business, but also for wider society.
The actual physical architecture of our brains – the way our billions of brain cells are wired together - is a result of our genetic code and our experiences throughout life - nature and nurture work together to create something totally unique.
The brain never loses the power to transform itself on the basis of experience, and this transformation, known as neuroplasticity, can occur over very short intervals.
But what does neuroplasticity have to do with business? Firstly, the world is changing fast and so must we. The old adage ‘The only thing constant in life is change’ has never been truer or more relevant than in today’s fast moving business world. Our ability to adapt depends on the plasticity of our brain.
Every time the economy, technology, a natural disaster or a generational trend forces a change of direction, we must be able to connect, disconnect, reconnect, restructure and bypass outdated aspects of thinking, values, beliefs, behaviours and paradigms of business.
The ability to relinquish inefficient practices and move into new arenas, adapting and learning as we go, is essential for success.
The second thing neuroplasticity has to do with business is that in today’s world, not only do the people leading the business need high levels of plasticity, but the organization itself must have plasticity.
That business must be able to connect and disconnect, reconnect, expand and contract, reduce the time and money spent on out-dated policies and procedures, restructure and stay aligned with shifts in market trends and demands.
Brain research has also shown that people function best when they are able to make the most of their natural preferences and abilities. When our day-to-day life prevents us from using our natural abilities our capacity for achieving our potential is diminished.
It follows that every person you employ in your business has the potential to strengthen your organisation or weaken it.
Therefore a key aspect of using neuroscience in business is in recruiting and developing your employees based on their natural strengths which means that they will perform at a higher level, be more engaged and be prepared to go the ‘extra mile’. Your employees have the greatest potential for performance growth in their areas of natural strengths.
40 | TRAINING MAGAZINE MIDDLE EAST NOV 2014
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