Latest news with #careerDevelopment
National Post
4 days ago
- Business
- National Post
Acorn Secures $12.3 Million to Reimagine Workforce Development with AI
Article content Acorn's AI-powered platform delivers career development employees were promised Article content but never received Article content VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Acorn, the AI-powered performance and learning management platform, today announced its $12.3 million USD Series A funding round led by Level Equity. This investment will accelerate Acorn's geographic expansion, enhance product development and grow strategic partnerships. The company also launched Capabilities AI, new software that automatically maps capabilities frameworks to job descriptions and creates personalized career development plans in minutes rather than months. 'Acorn is bridging the gap between learning and performance with an AI-native solution that's both timely and differentiated,' said Charles Chen, Partner at Level Equity. Article content 'Acorn is bridging the gap between learning and performance with an AI-native solution that's both timely and differentiated,' said Charles Chen, Partner at Level Equity. 'In a market saturated with many legacy technologies, Acorn's focus on business-specific capabilities over generic skills gives organizations a clear path to measuring and driving employee impact. We're proud to back the Acorn team as they scale a category-defining platform transforming workplace performance.' Article content The ' 2025 Corporate Performance and Learning Survey ' reveals a workforce at odds with traditional HR systems: Article content Only 29% of employees are 'very satisfied' with how their company evaluates performance. One in four employees question their value to their organization after performance reviews. Nearly 80% of senior leaders admit employees must leave to advance their careers. Article content Further compounding these issues, 44% of respondents question the fairness of the current metrics used to measure employee competency. They also noted the lack of integration with performance management tools and of a centralized system to manage competencies as top barriers to the success of their program. This disconnect between learning and performance platforms contributes to low engagement and ineffective development programs. Article content Capabilities AI: A New Approach to Corporate Learning Article content Acorn Capabilities AI redefines corporate learning by identifying the core capabilities required for success in each role and automatically generating employee development plans that are aligned with business strategy. The platform provides a common language for learning, recruitment and career mobility, enabling organizations to build customized capability frameworks in just minutes. Article content 'Corporate learning has been broken for a long time now,' said Blake Proberts, CEO and Founder of Acorn. 'Most organizations still aren't showing people what they need to do in their roles. By using AI to build capability frameworks and map learning content to those capabilities within Acorn, development becomes relevant, timely, and useful. It's how we move past tickbox training with low engagement to learning that truly drives performance.' Article content Pioneering Performance Learning Management Systems (PLMS) Article content Seeing the need to unify performance and learning, Acorn launched the PLMS category in 2023. This unified approach addresses the limitations of traditional Learning Management Systems (LMS) by mapping role-specific capabilities to measurable outcomes. Article content 'The HR landscape is shifting. Organizations are seeking solutions to integrate eLearning and performance management,' said Grace Savides, Senior Market Research Analyst at G2. 'More companies are aligning their L&D and performance initiatives to respond effectively to the ever-growing skills gap and demands for faster growth.' Article content Additional Resources Article content About Acorn Article content Acorn PLMS (Performance Learning Management System) is the AI-powered performance and learning management platform. With a proprietary library of over 1,600 capabilities and 4,800 proficiency levels, Acorn helps organizations define the capabilities that matter, map them to roles and learning content, and build personalized development plans. By showing learners how to succeed in their roles and enabling leaders to have meaningful performance conversations, Acorn empowers L&D, HR, and people leaders to create clear career pathways and prove the business impact of learning. Article content About Level Equity Level Equity is a lower middle market private investment firm focused on providing capital to rapidly growing software and technology-enabled businesses. Level provides long-term capital across various transaction types in support of continued growth. The firm has raised over $4.5 billion in committed capital for their closed funds and co-investments, and has made over 125 investments since its inception. Article content Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content Media Contact Article content Article content Article content Article content
Forbes
4 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
How To Become The CEO Of Your Own Career
Portrait of a confident young businesswoman working in a modern office Lorraine K. Lee, global keynote speaker and bestselling author, remembers the excitement of landing her first promotion to 'news editor' at LinkedIn, after just one year at the company. In her new role, she worked on high-visibility projects, was well-liked by her peers, and earned a reputation as a go-to teammate. But despite all that, her career plateaued. She'd done everything 'right,' so why did she feel stuck? She had said yes to every opportunity and delivered on major initiatives, but a promotion never had been on the table. After some honest reflection, the answer became clear: Lee had been reactive, not strategic. Her 'let-the-work-speak-for-itself' mindset wasn't enough to push her career forward. She hadn't been thoughtful about her professional presence—i.e. how and where she was seen. This is a common realization for many early- and mid-career professionals, who often believe that hard work alone will lead to success. In the summer of 2021, Dr. Kate Lister, a British author, tweeted, 'How old were you when you realized your original plan of being really nice, working really hard, and taking on more than you should, hoping you'd be automatically rewarded, was totally flawed?' The tweet resonated— over 400,000 people liked or retweeted it. For Lee, this moment of clarity changed everything. After moving to a new company, she shifted her approach. She got clear on what leaders were looking for, made her wins visible, and communicated her goals openly. Within a year, she was promoted again— this time to director— and knew she had truly earned it. Lorraine K. Lee holding a copy of her book, Unforgettable Presence, and smiling Lee's experiences inspired her new book, Unforgettable Presence, (an Amazon #1 bestseller and #1 Amazon new release). Through her work, she helps others shift their mindset at work so that they can go from overlooked to unforgettable. Here's how she reframed her beliefs to take ownership of her career: Before: Hard work alone will pay off. After: If no one sees my work, it will be like I didn't do it. I need to actively share my accomplishments. Before: My network will grow naturally. After: I need to make sure I'm actively building relationships, not just when I need something. Before: Feedback comes during annual reviews. After: Feedback should be continuous if I want to grow faster. Before: Promotions and raises happen with enough time. After: I need to advocate for myself at every opportunity. Lee takes these new mindsets a step further: She believes that every person should be the CEO of their own career. According to Lee, 'Bringing the outlook of a CEO to my career changed how I interact with people on a day-to-day basis. It made me proactive, rather than passively letting things happen to me. It made me think more strategically about my career by being more vocal about my goals and intentional with building relationships. I began examining company metrics and considering how my work contributed to the bottom line. It boosted my confidence, allowing me to feel more in control, and ultimately put me in the driver's seat of my career.' So, how can you become the CEO of your own career? In order to figure out how you want to be seen, you first need to understand how your colleagues currently perceive you. If you're unsure, 360 reviews can help you gather feedback about your performance and reputation from different levels of colleagues and managers. You can then use this information to help you understand what others think about you. What's the gap between how your colleagues see you now and how you want them to see you in the future? Once you're aware of that gap, you can figure out the steps to move from where you are today to where you want to be. Lee recommends dividing a piece of paper into two columns: on the left, write adjectives for how your colleagues currently describe you, and on the right, list adjectives that represent how you actually want to be seen. 'Self-reflection can sometimes be a challenge,' Lee says, 'but going through the steps can help you become more aware of your brand and identify what others might not see.' Once you've defined your brand, you need a way to communicate it effectively. That's where your unique, powerful introduction (UPI) comes in. 'Introductions are one of the most important situations to create a strong impression, but so many people miss this opportunity,' says Lee. She suggests crafting a UPI that includes any of the following: Lee's UPI from her time at Prezi evolved from: 'Hi, I'm Lorraine. I lead the editorial team,' to: 'Hi, I'm Lorraine, and I lead the editorial team. We collaborate with business leaders to create content that educates and inspires millions of users.' This new phrasing not only clarified her role and what she did but also added credibility by showcasing the scope and impact of her work. Your UPI should help you stand out, and can change depending on where you're using it, too. For example, if you were to use it in your LinkedIn headline or in a LinkedIn post, it can open the door for opportunities like media interviews or speaking engagements, Lee says. When your UPI transcends company walls, 'It's free brand awareness for your company and amazing visibility for you.' Once you've clearly defined your professional brand, focus on nurturing your network. Lee recommends checking in with key and new connections every few months, even if it's just to share something helpful you've learned that you think will benefit them in their role. Another option is to create a networking tracker to stay organized and ensure you're regularly maintaining important relationships. 'Just like setting aside time for family and friends, you have to create time to nurture your professional relationships,' Lee says. 'There's nothing inauthentic about doing a good job at keeping in touch.' Nurturing your network means staying in touch and fostering genuine, long-term relationships. It's not just about being there when you need something— it's about ensuring those connections are strong and mutually supportive. Being intentional with how you communicate is crucial for your professional presence. Lee suggests that minor adjustments to your phrasing can make a significant impact on how you're perceived. Instead of saying, 'I'll try to get it done next week,' say, 'I will get this done by Tuesday' to come across more confident and on top of things. Removing your use of minimizing language like 'just' or 'sorry' can help you avoid sounding unsure of your point (and yourself). Lee also emphasizes that avoiding upspeak—where your voice rises at the end of sentences as if you're asking a question—can make you sound more confident and authoritative. The way you phrase your requests and communicate can reshape how others perceive your authority and leadership, putting you in greater control of your career, according to Lee. By applying these steps, along with many others outlined in her book, Lee was able to raise her profile both internally and externally, strengthening her brand within and outside her organization. In her new book, Unforgettable Presence, Lee teaches readers how to take control of their career trajectory and build a professional presence that leaves a lasting impact.
Zawya
13-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Tamkeen supports 50 Bahraini employees at Havelock One
Tamkeen has announced its support for the employment and career development of 50 Bahraini employees at Havelock One Interiors. The initiative aligns with Tamkeen's 2025 strategic priorities, focusing on enhancing the competitiveness of Bahrainis in the private sector, equipping them with suitable skills, and prioritising enterprise growth, digitisation, and sustainability. Tamkeen's chief growth officer Khalid Al Bayat highlighted the long-standing partnership: 'Our support for Havelock One, which began in 2018, has contributed to the company's expansion and increased the efficiency of its operations, positively impacting its Bahraini workforce through new employment and career progression prospects.' He added that Tamkeen continues its mission to support local enterprises that empower Bahraini talent, fostering job opportunities and career progression to drive private sector sustainability and growth. Havelock One group operations director Firas Al Ayed commended Tamkeen's continuous support, stating it has been 'key in expanding our operations and entering new markets.' He noted this expansion led to growth at their factory and boosted their ability to hire local talent and develop clear career paths, with many Bahraini employees now holding leadership roles. Established in 1998, Havelock One is a major GCC manufacturer with headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Askar, Bahrain. The company operates in five countries with over 1,900 employees, having delivered more than 9,000 interior fit-out projects across various sectors. Tamkeen's programmes aim to make Bahrainis the preferred choice for employment and position the private sector as the kingdom's economic growth engine. Copyright 2022 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Fast Company
11-06-2025
- Business
- Fast Company
Ghosted by internship hiring managers? Here's a guide to creating your own experiential learning summer project
American college students have been scrambling to land summer internships this year. The process has been notoriously difficult, as more and more companies lean into AI—and lay off employees. Many entry-level opportunities have vanished. But a paid, full-time internship in your chosen industry is not the only worthwhile experience you can have this summer. The National Association of Colleges and Employers says that those who participate in experiential learning—a category including internships, externships, research projects, practicums, and micro-internships—both garner more job options and land a higher starting salary. Experiential learning extends beyond 'traditional' paid internships, yet still benefits those who take the initiative. In their early careers, experiential learners typically experience faster career progression, higher career satisfaction, more satisfaction with their university experience, and an average of $15,000 more in salary. Create your own plan Uncertainty about the economy has increased caution at corporations, as hiring managers slow down timelines and are more conservative with hiring. Cindy Meis, director of the undergraduate career services at the Tippie School of Business, University of Iowa, says that even if students are 'doing everything right,' they still might not be getting results from their search. Students who feel thwarted by the traditional internship route can still create their own plan. According to Meis, you can make almost anything a meaningful experience—you simply have to figure out how to formalize it. 'Think through how [your experience] can translate into numerical, tangible, transferable skills,' Meis says. 'So whatever it is you decide to do, I want it to be meaningful, planned, and deliberate.' Here's how to plan out the rest of the summer—and create a meaningful experience for yourself—without a traditional summer internship. Networking You don't need a formal internship to expand your contacts. Create a networking goal for the summer, whether that's a coffee chat every week with an alumni of your school who works in an interesting field, or a networking event once a month. Utilize LinkedIn or your school's alumni networking platform to locate individuals you want to speak to. Typically, your school's alumni will be receptive to offering help, support, or advice, so it's often okay to send a cold email or LinkedIn message to someone you would like to speak to Before your meeting, ask yourself: What do I want to know about this career in this industry? What do I want to know about this person's professional path? You can also reach out for feedback on your résumé, or even to job-shadow someone for a day (the formalized—key word here—version of this is called an externship). Optimizing your summer job Many college students discount the jobs they hold over the summer as meaningful experience. If you're a camp counselor, you can focus on the work you did to develop programming, handle unhappy parents, and deal with incidents. If you're a barista, focus on the teamwork with your coworkers, your customer service skills, and your ability to memorize and execute hundreds of coffee orders a day. According to Meis, you should think about every single thing you did in your job, and what things can apply to your target industry. Often, students forget about most of the things they did on a daily basis that might demonstrate important skills. These experiences are every bit as meaningful as anything you'll gain from an internship. 'I think sometimes half my job is being a cheerleader,' Meis says. 'I want to know every little detail.' Upskilling LinkedIn Learning is a great resource to develop other job skills that will benefit you in the future, Meis says. Students can even get certificates proving to future employers that they have the job's most relevant skills. LinkedIn Learning has a multitude of courses available to those with a premium membership, which is available as a free trial for 30 days. It offers everything from Grammar Foundations and Using Generative AI Ethically at Work to Javascript: Classes. Connecting with your college career advisor If you're a rising sophomore, junior, or senior, you can always contact the career advisor at your institution for a conversation. Career advisors are typically available in the summer, and you can always use them as a resource for help creating a plan. It's never too early or too late to chat, says Meis. 'I'm going to meet you where you're at, and it might be too late to get the traditional internship that you wanted,' Meis says. 'But it's not too late to have a plan or to pivot or to make an adjustment because something didn't work out.'
Forbes
05-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
25 Inspiring Podcasts To Supercharge Your Career In 2025
Podcasts can help you build the skills, mindset, and network you need to succeed in your career. Whether you're commuting to the office, working from home or squeezing in learning during your lunch break, podcasts are an accessible and powerful way to fuel professional growth. Since 2014, the average time spent listening to podcasts has grown by 450%, according to Edison Research. Today, 47% of Americans ages 12 and up listen to podcasts monthly, and 34% tune in every week. The right podcast is more than just background noise. It's an investment in your career, offering fresh perspectives, actionable strategies and the motivation you need to make the most of your workday. From deep dives into the science of productivity to candid conversations with successful entrepreneurs, these shows offer something for every stage of your career journey. Here are 25 carefully selected podcasts to help you build the skills, mindset and network you need to thrive this year. WorkLife delves into the science of work and explores how to make it better, featuring unique stories and research-backed strategies from world-class organizations and thought leaders. Adam Grant explores hidden aspects of work culture, creativity and leadership to help you thrive. Host: Adam Grant, organizational psychologist, bestselling author and Wharton professor Best For: Ambitious professionals, managers and lifelong learners Why It Stands Out: Insightful, practical and full of useful takeaways, each episode unpacks the habits and mindsets behind the world's most effective teams and leaders. Tim Ferriss interviews high achievers from a range of industries, including investors, authors, athletes and entrepreneurs, to uncover their routines, tools and mindsets for success. The show is a masterclass in optimizing performance and finding unique career shortcuts. Host: Tim Ferriss, bestselling author and early-stage tech investor Best For: Growth-minded professionals, innovators and anyone seeking productivity or life hacks Why It Stands Out: Tim's deep-dive interview style reveals the real-world habits, failures and philosophies of some of the most successful people on the planet. A blend of science, stories and practical advice, Happier helps listeners create habits and mindsets that boost happiness both at work and in life. Rubin and her co-host share simple strategies to find more joy and fulfillment, even on the busiest days. Host: Gretchen Rubin, bestselling author and happiness expert Best For: Professionals seeking more work-life balance, personal fulfillment or habit-building strategies Why It Stands Out: Accessible, research-based tips delivered with warmth and humor, making self-improvement feel both doable and fun. Lewis Howes brings on world-class guests to explore what it means to live an extraordinary life and achieve your biggest goals. Episodes focus on leadership, overcoming adversity and the habits of top performers in business, sports and entertainment. Host: Lewis Howes, entrepreneur, author and former professional athlete Best For: Professionals motivated by personal stories, practical inspiration and real talk on success and resilience Why It Stands Out: A motivating blend of raw honesty, expert insights and tangible lessons from some of the world's most accomplished people. Ed Mylett interviews leaders, athletes and innovators about peak performance, mindset and the art of self-mastery. The show is packed with motivation and high-impact stories for anyone striving to unlock their potential. Host: Ed Mylett, entrepreneur, performance coach and bestselling author Best For: High-achievers, leaders and professionals seeking inspiration to elevate every aspect of their work and life Why It Stands Out: Fast-paced and energizing, each episode delivers both inspiration and effective steps for pushing past limitations and reaching new heights. This podcast brings listeners inside real executive coaching sessions, where host Muriel Wilkins helps rising leaders navigate workplace challenges and unlock their full potential. Host: Muriel Wilkins, executive coach and leadership advisor Best For: Managers, executives and professionals aspiring to leadership roles Why It Stands Out: Offers authentic, unscripted conversations and practical leadership lessons straight from the trenches. Each episode delivers concise, ready-to-use strategies for communicating with confidence, managing teams and leading through change. Host: Tom Henschel, executive coach and communications expert Best For: Professionals aiming to improve executive presence, influence and communication Why It Stands Out: Bite-sized episodes packed with tools to help you lead with clarity and credibility. Leadership legend John Maxwell and his team share wisdom on influence, vision and personal growth, helping listeners develop as both leaders and people. Host: John Maxwell, renowned leadership author and speaker Best For: Leaders at all levels, from aspiring managers to seasoned executives Why It Stands Out: Blends time-tested leadership principles with practical application, making it relevant for every stage of your career. Packed with useful career strategies, this podcast features experts sharing advice on communication, productivity, leadership and problem-solving for the modern workplace. Host: Pete Mockaitis, career coach and speaker Best For: Knowledge workers, new leaders and professionals seeking practical ways to excel Why It Stands Out: Each episode is a "how-to" for thriving at work, delivered with clarity and good humor. This show helps professionals redefine success, discover meaningful work and make bold career changes, even mid-career. Host: Scott Anthony Barlow, career coach and entrepreneur Best For: Professionals considering career pivots, job changers or anyone seeking more purpose Why It Stands Out: Real stories and tactical advice on designing a fulfilling, values-driven career. Cal Newport tackles the challenges of deep work and meaningful productivity, answering listener questions and sharing science-backed insights on how to stay focused in a distracted world. Host: Cal Newport, computer science professor and bestselling author Best For: Knowledge workers, creators, and anyone seeking to work with greater intention Why It Stands Out: Provides a thoughtful, research-driven approach to productivity without resorting to hustle culture clichés. This podcast examines how high achievers can excel at work and achieve success in life without burning out. Each episode features strategies for achieving more by prioritizing what matters. Host: Michael Hyatt and Megan Hyatt Miller, leadership experts and authors Best For: Busy professionals and leaders seeking work-life balance Why It Stands Out: Proven advice for maximizing results while maintaining well-being. Host Erik Fisher interviews productivity experts and practitioners, revealing the real-world tactics that help people achieve their goals and get things done. Host: Erik Fisher, productivity podcaster and coach Best For: Anyone looking to improve habits, systems and daily efficiency Why It Stands Out: Practical tips and honest conversations about what actually works (and what doesn't) in the world of productivity. Start your day with quick, evidence-based productivity tips designed to help you make the most of your morning and set a positive tone for the rest of your workday. Host: Laura Vanderkam, time management expert and author Best For: Early risers, busy professionals and morning routine enthusiasts Why It Stands Out: Super short episodes, perfect for even the most hectic schedules. This show inspires listeners to wake up early and take control of their day through routines, habits and positive energy. Host: Jeff Sanders, productivity coach and author Best For: High performers, ambitious professionals and anyone curious about the power of morning routines Why It Stands Out: Energizing advice and interviews for making the most out of every day, starting at sunrise. Get your daily dose of artificial intelligence news and insights condensed into quick updates that keep you informed on the latest breakthroughs and trends. Host: AI Daily team Best For: Tech enthusiasts, business leaders and anyone tracking the AI revolution Why It Stands Out: Short, info-packed episodes perfect for staying ahead in the age of AI. A daily rundown of the most important stories in tech, from Silicon Valley to startups and everything in between. Host: Brian McCullough, tech commentator and entrepreneur Best For: Professionals in tech, digital media or anyone wanting to stay current Why It Stands Out: Fast, comprehensive tech news that fits into your commute. Interviews with CIOs, tech executives and digital innovators about the future of business and the strategies driving digital transformation. Host: Peter High, technology strategy advisor and author Best For: Business leaders, IT professionals and forward-thinking managers Why It Stands Out: Real-world lessons from top tech leaders who are shaping the next era of business. Hosted by the team at Andreessen Horowitz, this podcast explores tech trends, business models and ideas from startup to enterprise scale. Host: Andreessen Horowitz partners and special guests Best For: Entrepreneurs, investors and professionals interested in innovation Why It Stands Out: Features conversations with top founders, investors and thinkers in tech and business. Explores disruptive ideas, change management and the science of creativity with global thought leaders and visionaries. Host: Aidan McCullen, innovation and transformation consultant Best For: Change-makers, creative professionals and innovation enthusiasts Why It Stands Out: Deep dives into the mindsets and strategies behind lasting innovation. Dr. Laurie Santos shares the latest scientific research and inspiring stories to help you live a happier, more fulfilling life at work and beyond. Host: Dr. Laurie Santos, Yale professor and psychologist Best For: Anyone seeking to boost happiness, resilience and emotional well-being Why It Stands Out: Combines science, storytelling and practical tips in an engaging, evidence-based format. Mel Robbins delivers practical strategies, personal stories and tough-love motivation to help listeners take charge of their work and life. Each episode features honest conversations about overcoming setbacks, building confidence and finding everyday success, plus advice you can apply right away. Host: Mel Robbins, bestselling author, speaker and behavior change expert Best For: Professionals seeking practical tools, motivation and honest insights for personal and career growth Why It Stands Out: Her blend of energy, science-backed advice and real-world stories makes each episode relatable and empowering. Expect direct answers, inspiring guests and proven tools to break through obstacles and boost your momentum. Jay Shetty offers wisdom and practical tools for finding purpose, improving relationships, and achieving success, blending ancient philosophy with modern science. Host: Jay Shetty, author, coach and former monk Best For: Professionals craving meaning, purpose and personal growth Why It Stands Out: Inspirational guests and life lessons for unlocking your best self. This podcast delivers motivational advice and mindset shifts to help you overcome obstacles, increase focus and achieve your goals. Host: Rob Dial, mindset coach and speaker Best For: Professionals needing a boost of motivation or a new perspective Why It Stands Out: Quick, practical episodes with a positive, no-nonsense approach. Marie Forleo shares candid conversations with world-class guests, blending business advice with personal development tips to help you build a career and life you love. Host: Marie Forleo, entrepreneur and author Best For: Ambitious professionals and creatives balancing work, life and purpose Why It Stands Out: Warm, energetic delivery and effective strategies for thriving in all areas of life. The most successful careers are built through consistent, intentional learning. With these podcasts, you're not just consuming content; you're engaging with it. You're gaining practical tools to navigate workplace challenges, enhance your leadership skills and find greater career fulfillment. Start by choosing one podcast that speaks to your current needs, subscribe and begin investing in your most important asset, yourself.
