Have you learned something new? That’s good, because lifelong learning is important for more than just keeping up with the fast-paced world of work. Through lifelong learning, we can also satisfy our innate curiosity and increase our self-confidence. But what does the term actually mean?

Lifelong learning – a definition

Lifelong learning means independent learning throughout our lives, which we use to further develop our knowledge (expertise), skills and qualifications.

The term is also based on the idea that learning does not simply stop after school, training or university, but that it is up to us to keep learning new things of our own accord – be it a new language, a new computer program, a new recipe, a new sport or a new method of coping with stress.  

Why is lifelong learning so important in the workplace?

New technologies, new working methods, new industry trends: especially in sectors that are developing rapidly, such as technology, healthcare and finance, lifelong learning is crucial if you want to keep up with the job market. Acquiring new skills and deepening your existing knowledge improves your career prospects. Finally, lifelong learning also has a positive impact on your personal development. It broadens horizons, promotes creativity and strengthens self-confidence. Continuous learning is a career booster – regardless of whether you’re aiming for a specialist or management career. 

How significant is informal learning compared to formal learning?

Formal learning occurs in an institutional setting and is offered by schools, universities or formal training programmes and organized, guided and typically assessed with tests and completed with a certificate. Informal learning, on the other hand, involves the acquisition of knowledge and skills outside of formal educational institutions and structured curricula. It takes place in everyday life and in the workplace, for example, and is achieved through observation, mentoring, experimentation, problem-solving, self-study and social interaction. Both forms of learning play an important role in lifelong learning, where informal learning now accounts for around 70 to 90 percent of adult learning and has gained in importance with increasing flexibility in the world of work. Informal learning is tailored to individual learning needs, provides flexibility and self-direction and enables the direct transfer of what has been learned into practice. Many future skills, such as self-management and the ability to learn are particularly valued by employers and are also trained through informal learning.  

What’s the difference between knowledge and skills?

Simply put, knowledge is what a person knows, while skills are what a person can do. Knowledge includes factual knowledge or language skills. Examples of skills are communication skills, problem-solving skills, technical skills or interpersonal skills. 

What skills will help us to take control of our professional future?

The skills we will need in the future are also known as “future skills”. These are skills that often don’t necessarily relate to a specific profession or industry, but are suitable for meeting future challenges and seizing opportunities across the board. They could be skills that help you analyse complex problems, evaluate solutions and make informed decisions, manage your own affairs, learn or work effectively with others. These future skills are becoming increasingly important, as the world of work is constantly changing due to technology, globalization and other megatrends. Employees with future skills are better equipped to succeed in a highly dynamic working environment. PostFinance is currently defining the future skills relevant to the banking of the future. 

How can you ensure that you stay motivated in lifelong learning?

The basis for successful lifelong learning is an inherent willingness to learn. For this reason, it is important to find your personal motivation and think about why you want to learn something. If you know your motivation, it’s easier to stay committed. Do you just want a break from the daily grind and get out of your comfort zone? Do you feel the need to try out new things? Perhaps you’re just curious? Or do you want to get ahead in your job with new skills? 

Clear learning goals will also help you to practise lifelong learning. Specifically, it’s about defining which skills or knowledge you want to acquire or improve and setting clear and achievable goals to structure the learning process. This includes scheduling regular learning times – be it daily, weekly or monthly. A learning schedule ensures that learners stay consistent and make continuous progress. And finally, it makes sense to reflect on your own learning experiences (in dialogue with others, if possible) and to consider how what you learned can be applied in practice. 

Which forms of learning are particularly suitable for lifelong learning?

There are countless forms of lifelong learning. Here are a few examples:

What’s the connection between lifelong learning and professional development?

The fact is that those who continually expand their skills are in demand on the job market. If you are applying for a new job or a higher or different position, you have a better chance of getting the job with specialist expertise and enhanced skills. At the same time, targeted training proves that you are motivated to keep on developing and don’t simply want to remain at your current level of knowledge. This is attractive to employers, because they can rely on you to see new challenges as opportunities.

How does lifelong learning affect a company’s competitiveness?

Lifelong learning contributes to companies’ competitiveness.

Ensures adaptability

Constantly changing market conditions require flexibility and adaptability. With lifelong learning, employees remain agile and can quickly adapt to new situations, which enables the company to better adapt to changing circumstances. 

Promotes talent acquisition and retention

This signals to current and future employees that the company supports their continuous professional development, which also helps the company attract and retain highly qualified specialists. 

Strengthens the employer’s image and appeal

By investing in training and educational programmes, employees receive the support they need to develop professionally and personally. This contributes to a positive corporate culture and strengthens trust between employees and the company. 

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