Training the New Generation in Social Skills and Integrating AI with Steve Bullington of Salesforce

Steve Bullington, Director of Solution Engineering Talent Development at Salesforce, joins us in this episode to discuss ongoing shifts in L&D. The combination of the younger generations’ characteristics and technological advancements requires a new approach to training. L&D professionals must leverage everything from AI integration to personalized on-demand training to meet newer generations’ expectations, pace and learning styles while helping them develop essential social and communication skills.

Key Takeaways:

(01:53) The Scout program supports recent college grads in early career development.
(03:19) Moving from sales to L&D.
(05:42) 58% of Scout graduates are women, with 53% being from underrepresented groups.
(06:27) Multigenerational shifts in the workforce and new technology call for adaptive learning tools.
(07:23) L&D moves from centralized training to real-time, accessible learning on demand.
(08:44) AI’s future in L&D is integrating it into existing tools, not building custom models.
(10:55) Early career talent faces skill gaps in interpersonal communication post-remote work and COVID.
(14:47) Steve emphasizes the importance of extemporaneous speaking skills for talent.

Resources Mentioned:

Rethinking, with Adam Grant 

“Think Faster, Talk Smarter” by Matt Abrahams

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