Adopt a Learning Mindset

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The leaves are changing, the stores are full of back-to-school
gear and the kids are ready to learn. Are you?

Many people get comfortable and think they know an industry, a customer, or an application. Just as there is always someone smarter, there is always something more to learn. I’m not just talking about technology, I’m talking about learning in general, and the need for a “learning mindset.” 

What is a learning mindset? It’s many things.

1. A learning mindset equates to a lack of arrogance. You acknowledge the possibility that there is always more to learn or a better way to do something. Even as a seasoned rep agent, you will try the new CRM system and give it a chance before you reject it. 

2. Have an open mind. Be willing to at least consider a unique perspective or approach to a problem or situation. You are willing to listen to your regional sales manager present a new way to approach the target market. 

3. Take a positive approach to change. Many people dread change and resist it. A learning mindset will embrace change and view it in a positive light while being excited about the opportunities that change can bring. That new VP of Sales? She will have a different approach than the guy who retired, and you know that will reinvigorate the sales force.

4. Know that learning is an outcome of any change. Sometimes you learn what does not work, but often you learn what to keep doing and what to change. Even minor changes or in the way you work will create learning and demonstrate to your colleagues that you are adaptable, a desirable quality. Embrace that approach when offered an opportunity to do something new and the outcome will be a smarter, wiser version of yourself. Take that stretch assignment. Work with that new distributor. Give the new product line a chance.

5. Look externally. The most successful people and companies are those who track trends and changes in the world and adapt. Companies like Apple and Uber, for example. Performers like David Bowie and Lady Gaga, Jack White, and Taylor Swift are all examples of professionals who extend their careers and enjoy multidisciplinary collaborations by seeking inspiration outside their silos. They also stay relevant and marketable. Like these success stories, try changing your partners, your packaging, and your ways of doing things. 

6. Embrace fear. One of the most surprising and rewarding projects of my career came when our CEO asked me to lead an IT initiative. I have a strong background in Sales and Marketing, HR, and Operations, but IT? Scary. However, I embraced the opportunity, put on my project management hat and collaboration jacket, and went to work. I learned a tremendous amount from my IT colleagues. The project finished on time, and on budget, and the CEO was happy with the results. I came out of the experience with new knowledge, new friends, and a new confidence in myself. 

7. Lastly, let’s talk about what is NOT a learning mindset. The below phrases need to be erased from your vocabulary, much like your kids discard last year’s TikTok slang. 

a. This is the way we’ve always done it.

b. The customer has to understand. 

c. We don’t have time to change.

d. They are different from us.

e. Change is scary, risky, or expensive.

8. The risk of not trying new things, not adapting to customer needs, not making time, not embracing diverse perspectives, and not taking calculated risks is that you never learn, never improve, never gain new customers, and, in fact, risk getting left behind by your competition.

Embrace the change of seasons, adjust your attitude to one of learning, and a positive approach to the advantages of change. Look around you and observe how the world is changing. These six new skills and attitudes can be learned and applied, becoming your new way of working. You will be better and will advance, not only to the next grade but also in your profession. Adopt a learning mindset now.



Desirée Grace is a coach, advisor, consultant, and ment
or with 30+ years as a senior leader in the electrical distribution and manufacturing sectors. She builds brands, grows revenue and motivates teams, facilitates strategy and execution, and offers special expertise in helping offshore companies enter the North American market. An experienced professional who enables win-win outcomes for organizations and their partners, find her on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/desireecgrace.





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