Reading: A Competency Building Tool:
In the previous post “You Read, I Read, But Are We Competent Readers?”
I argued that reading is not a mere leisure activity.
One can intentionally craft leisure to support self-growth, self-development.
I indicated the merging of the competency framework from OB-HR and applying it to reading.
This shall pave the pathways of learning, a pathway of becoming competent readers.
This sounds like a lofty goal.
As my friend jokingly calls it “wishful thinking”. Perhaps calling it a dream fit for an armchair visionary
The Pilot Cohort:
So I decided to test the idea to find the POC (proof of concept).
I formed a small cohort, a small group of interested readers.
These are primarily members of a book-group that I coordinate.
Group is formed of mostly Toastmasters.
I will walk them through my process of reading for self-growth, self-learning.
Reading Process:
I read, I take notes, I summarize, I write about it on twitter, linkedin.
I write and publish book reviews.
I read theme-wise books and convert them into my class content often in the form of presentations. And I have used books to create workshops (For ex. Influence by Robert Cialdini). I used books/readings in my thesis journey.
I also aspire to write a book on my learnings. One topic I am exploring is “From Job to Calling” and on careers.
This may sound unconventional — even a bit mad — but there’s a method to the madness..
And the first time I am putting it in writing, in training, and in workshop format.
Books in Pilot:
To start with, I have shortlisted below three books.
All are easy to read books (IMHO). They are engaging, useful, and will help anyone become a better reader. I applied my well developed criteria on selecting these books and intend to keep shortlisting in future too.
We realized that the book “little history of psychology” is not easily available in India. Hard copy (Hard cover, as well as paperback) takes a long time to deliver. (I recommend using print copies for first-time readers — I’ll elaborate on this in a separate article.).
Hence we decided to start with “Hunger Habits”.
To start with a short welcome note on this.
The Plan:
Idea is simple, cohort members are just supposed to read daily. That’s it. Period.
While 25 minutes (one Pomodoro) is ideal, even 10 to 20 minutes of daily reading is perfectly fine.
Through small activities, tasks, they will progress and master the various skills (Reminder: Competency =>KSA =>Knowledge, Skills, Abilities) and they will graduate with learning how to put-up a IDP (Individual development plan) or PDP (Personal development plan. This is my preferred terminology — I’ll explain more in a future post).
Ideal participant will become a competent leader. And can leverage the competency to become a better professional, better communicator, better writer, or better presenter. What-ever he/she wishes to be.
At the very least, participants will build a consistent and strong reading habit. (or build a sturdy, strong reading habit).
I intend to keep writing on this as I learn more and more.
So do visit the blog.
I think a training program with a series of workshops shall be ready with this cohort.
I can start offering it to wider communities from July or August -2025 or so.
You can register your interest here. <Form Link>
Impact and Aspirations:
My primary target is MBA students, or/and freshers entering the workforce, or/and anyone who wishes to take his/her career to the next level. Basically anyone who is serious about self-development will benefit from this. (This shall work as a foundation for MBA student’s employability or professional’s career mobility).
Stay tuned.
If you love reading, join this.
If you are a senior, please support this honest effort.
You may spread word and encourage readers to join this.
If you are an educator, trainer, teacher, coach, you can impact someone’s life with this simple intervention. Stay tuned.
