📰 News & Notes

How to Get Started on Bluesky: A Guide for Beginners

Bluesky is a decentralized alternative to X (formerly Twitter), putting users back in control of their experience. Born from Jack Dorsey’s vision of a more open, user-driven platform, it combines the familiarity of X with powerful customization and privacy features. Whether you’re building a tailored feed, managing your connections, or setting firm boundaries for content, Bluesky makes it easy to create a space that works for you. If you miss the valuable L&D connections from the old Twitter, it might be worth checking it out.

I've created an L&D Starter pack to help you find some of my favorite L&D people who are already over there.

🎯Takeaway: Take Bluesky for a spin if you’re looking to connect with fellow L&D pros in a space free from the chaotic vibes of Twitter/X.

PowerPoint Presentations: Attention & Cognitive Load

If you want your PowerPoint presentations to actually resonate, it’s all about working smarter, not harder. Research using eye-tracking tech shows that the secret to keeping your audience engaged is simplicity—less text, clean visuals, and strategic organization. Overloading slides with too much info? Big mistake. Instead, break it down: small chunks, clear examples before details, and handouts to back it all up. When you align your presentations with how people’s brains really work, you’ll not only capture attention but also make your content stick.

🎯Takeaway: Simplify your slides, focus attention, and align with how the brain works—because clarity drives connection.

The State of Instructional Design, 2024

A recent survey by Dr. Philippa Hardman, conducted in partnership with Synthesia, shows that AI is changing instructional design. Subject matter experts are increasingly designing learning experiences, and performance metrics now prioritize real-world impact. While AI tools streamline workflows, challenges like time constraints and outdated tools persist. The future of instructional design will be shaped by AI-driven innovation and a focus on practical, job-relevant skills.

🎯Takeaway: AI is reshaping instructional design, driving a shift towards practical, impactful learning experiences.

What can microlearning do for you?

Chances are you’ve heard of microlearning—short, targeted learning that is easy for learners to consume on demand. However, you may wonder how microlearning might benefit you and fit into your existing learning environment. Learn more as we explore use cases and examples!

​

Join us on Wednesday, November 20 @ 12 noon CT

​

🧰 Tech Tools & Tips

If tools are your jam, check out my Work Smarter newsletter.

How to deal with constant changes

Learn how to design training products that stay flexible in a world of constant change. In this blended masterclass on 12 December at 9:00 am (ET), Megan Torrance and Roy de Vries will show you how to plan for change, handle stakeholder demands, and create better learning experiences for your learners. Stop letting change disrupt your work; start making it your superpower.

​

🎧 Podcast

This is the conversation that caught my ear this week. You can find previously featured podcasts in my Friday Finds podcast playlist.

Getting the Most Out of Generative AI at Work with Jeremy Utley

Jeremy Utley reveals why many aren’t getting the results they want from AI—and how to fix that. He advocates for active creativity and using AI as a collaborator through experimentation, roleplaying, and iteration. Embrace imperfect ideas, commit to daily practice, and turn learning into action to unlock innovation and productivity.

sponsored

Making the Leap from a Seasoned L&D to Training Centre Owner

If you’re an experienced L&D and thinking of taking the next step — opening and growing your own training centre — this guide is just for you! Inside, you’ll find engaging storytelling with legal, financial, and practical advice that will help you start your journey right away.

🧳 Where’s Mike?

If you or your event needs a speaker or workshop that is highly interactive and super practical, we should talk.

Friday Finds is an independent publication that I produce in my free time. You can support my work by sharing it with the world, booking an advertising spot, or buying me a coffee.