• Because we learn faster and see further “on the shoulders of giants” – building on the ideas of others. Learning from the best enables faster learning, and can help prevent mistakes from being made or repeated. Build on what has gone before. Find out more about the ideas which have helped develop successful organizations. Find out where the debate is about the future of leadership, management and business. Be informed.
• Because some ideas have stood the test of time. Ask yourself: what ideas have stood the test of time? Where are the older ideas which are still valid but perhaps not often applied? How well have we learned from the past, or does the past repeat itself?
• Because some ideas have a shelf life. Conversely, just because it is old, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s appropriate. What evidence is there that the idea works? In what situations did it work? Why would it work in your organisation? How would it work for you? Can you pilot and test ideas? Where else has it worked, and why (pay careful attention to why an idea has worked)? How do you distinguish fad from fact?
• Because there is a wealth of ideas as yet untapped amongst your friends, colleagues and in your organization. Find the best from around you, learn from them, ask questions, and seek to understand. Find those who think, challenge and lead in their areas of expertise – learn from them. Find the managers, who best support and encourage learning, learn from them also.

If we are to make management and leadership development training work, then we need to bring together ideas that stretch, challenge and stimulate. Ideas that provide a spring board to new practices and insights, ideas that lead to positive impact.