Do you contribute to creating a healthier and happier world? In this article, I had the pleasure of interviewing Andrew Stotter Brooks, a distinguished figure with over 25 years of experience in learning and development. As the former Head of L&D for major organizations like ADNOC, ETIHAD, and the AL Shire Group. Andrew's journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

○ The Story Behind Weird Human

○ The Recipe for Developing a Growth Mindset

○ How Understanding “The Role” is Pivotal for Any Organisation: A Comprehensive Approach

○ Challenging the Norms in Learning Functions

○ A Recipe for Success

○ Promoting Mental Well-being: A Force for Good

Continue reading or Watch the full interview here.

The Story Behind Weird Human

Andrew wears the badge of “Weird Human” proudly. He believes in the extraordinary potential within each person, highlighting the importance of shedding light on the brilliance of humanity. He shares glimpses of his personal life, revealing his talents in juggling, face painting, and his 30-year marriage with two amazing  children.

Andrew believes in being genuine, rejecting the notion of faking it. He focuses the attention on the significance of giving respect freely to every individual, acknowledging others, and smiling at strangers. His philosophy revolves around hearing people not just verbally but understanding them through body language. Andrew's four core values – respect, love, acknowledgment, and kindness – guide his interactions.

Acknowledging his humanity, Andrew admits to facing challenges and occasional bouts of depression. However, he believes in the power of choice and self-awareness in navigating life's ups and downs. He shares his daily reflection on whether he gave his best, reinforcing the idea that effort matters more than outcomes.

The Recipe for Developing a Growth Mindset

Andrew introduces the concept of "recipes" – a collection of strategies he employs in various situations. These recipes, developed over time, help him navigate challenges and interactions effectively. While some may perceive this as a form of manipulation, Andrew sees it as following a recipe for a better outcome.

In his role in learning and development, Andrew sheds light on the surprising lack of a growth mindset among professionals in the field. Many, when asked about their development needs, claim perfection. This observation sparks a conversation about the importance of self-awareness and intentionality, qualities often lost in today's workplaces.

Andrew simplifies the complexity of human experience, highlighting its role in shaping beliefs and actions. Through countless interactions, he believes experiences drive what people believe about him and, consequently, their actions.

How Understanding “The Role” is Pivotal for Any Organisation: A Comprehensive Approach

Andrew begins by breaking down the elements crucial for a specific job role. He takes the example of a cabin crew position and highlights six key aspects:

1. Knowledge of Customers and Stakeholders- Understanding how one fits into the broader organizational picture

2. Natural Attributes and Gifts- Recognizing innate talents that contribute to being an effective member of the cabin crew.

3. Behavioral Competencies- Active listening, asking questions, and assertiveness are among the key behaviors expected.

4. Relevant Experience- Highlighting the importance of a certain level of experience, which is often indispensable in roles like cabin crew.

5. Technical Skills- Recognizing the need for technical abilities, including familiarity with different aircraft, evacuation procedures, and service protocols.

6. Qualifications- Acknowledging that certain roles may require specific qualifications, aligning with industry standards.

By understanding and defining these components, Andrew creates a Success Profile, a clear outline of what it takes to excel in a particular role.

Andrew then introduces a novel idea of layering roles within an organization. He envisions aligning the Success Profiles of various roles, like a pilot and cabin crew, to identify compatibility and areas of development. This method allows for precise guidance tailored to an individual's aspirations.

Challenging the Norms in Learning Functions

In contrast to traditional approaches where employees are handed vague job descriptions and a plethora of resources, Andrew's method provides clarity and precision. Instead of overwhelming employees with a multitude of options, Andrew guides them with a specific roadmap, listing qualifications, experiences, and resources needed for their desired role.

Andrew raises a concern about traditional learning functions that often prioritize easily measurable but less effective learning. He points out the dangers of such an approach, highlighting that true learning requires more than just attendance and testing. The easy path might seem attractive, but it doesn't guarantee the retention and application of knowledge.

A Recipe for Success

In essence, Andrew's recipe for employee success combines precision, clarity, and a deep understanding of individual aspirations. By aligning roles, providing clear Success Profiles, and challenging traditional norms in learning functions, he advocates for a more effective and meaningful approach to employee development.

Andrew extends an invitation to connect, highlighting the importance of love and connection in promoting a supportive workplace culture. The recipe for success, as shared by Andrew, invites organizations to prioritize a holistic understanding of their employees and provide them with the tools and guidance needed for meaningful growth.