Methodological Expertise: The Key to Effective Work

In an increasingly complex world of work, methodological skills play a decisive role. These competences enable employees to work efficiently and in a structured manner, to prioritize tasks and to find targeted solutions to problems. For HR managers and those responsible in the area of Learning & Development (L&D), it is particularly important to identify methodological skills and promote them in a targeted manner.

What are methodological expertise?

Methodological competencies refer to the ability to proceed systematically and in a structured manner. They help to analyse complex challenges and develop suitable solutions. While professional competencies include specific knowledge about a specific subject area, methodological competencies can be used universally. They concern the way people organize, prioritize, and think through tasks.

What are important components of methodological expertise? 

• ‍Time management: The ability to prioritize tasks and complete them efficiently.‍
• Problem solving ability: Systematic approach to challenges‍
• Analytical thinking: The ability to evaluate and process information and draw logical conclusions.‍
• Planning and organization: to clearly structure and carry out projects or tasks.‍
• Creativity techniques: Use methods such as brainstorming or mind mapping to find innovative solutions.

Why is methodological expertise important?

Methodological skills are important not only for managers, but for employees at all levels. They make it possible to work effectively and efficiently in a dynamic work environment. Especially in times of increasing digitalization, in which processes are becoming ever more complex, employees must be able to react quickly to changes and develop systematic solutions.

It is crucial for HR and L&D managers to recognize and further develop these skills among employees. They form the basis for the ability to adapt quickly to new challenges and to learn continuously.

The significance for HR and L&D

For HR managers, methodological skills are an important factor when selecting talent. Applicants who have strong methodological skills are often able to complete new tasks more quickly and become familiar with new work environments efficiently. L&D managers, in turn, can ensure that employees continuously improve their methodological skills through targeted training and workshops.

Practical examples of methodological expertise

Here are a few practical examples of how methodological skills are applied in everyday working life:

• ‍Project Management: A project manager plans an extensive project by clearly defining tasks, setting milestones, and developing timelines. Thanks to her methodological skills, she is able to complete the project on time and within budget.‍
• Problem solving workshops: A team is faced with the challenge of increasing the sales of a product. By using creativity techniques such as brainstorming and systematic problem analysis, they develop innovative solutions and implement them successfully.‍
• Process optimization: In a manufacturing company, an employee uses his analytical skills to identify inefficient processes and suggest concrete improvement measures that lead to a significant increase in productivity.

How can companies promote methodological expertise?

• Continuing Education offers and workshops: Training that focuses on problem-solving skills, time management or project planning can specifically strengthen methodological skills. Companies should regularly offer training programs that promote social, professional, digital and methodological knowledge in equal measure.
• Using digital tools: The use of project management software or planning tools can help employees improve their methodological skills. These tools make it easier to organize tasks and projects and support structured work.
• Feedback and coaching: Regular feedback on the working methods and individual competencies of employees is crucial to improve methodological skills. Personal coaching and mentoring programs can also provide valuable support.
• Encourage self-organized learning: Employees should be encouraged to develop their own learning methods and use their time efficiently. Here, companies can provide them with flexible learning resources, such as online courses or learning platforms.

Challenges in developing methodological skills

Even though methodological skills can be used universally, their development can be a challenge for some employees. There is often a lack of structured training programs or employees are not sufficiently motivated to question and improve their own methods. HR and L&D managers can remedy this by offering targeted competency development programs and creating incentives to expand methodological skills.

Conclusion: Methodological competencies are diverse

Methodological skills are essential to be successful in a constantly changing world of work. They form the basis for efficient work, problem solving and strategic planning. HR and L&D managers play a crucial role in identifying and promoting these skills among employees. Through targeted training offers, the use of modern tools and regular feedback, companies can ensure that their employees always have the necessary methodological skills to successfully complete even complex tasks.