At Ngern Tidlor, the philosophy of “investment in people” is not only strengthening people’s areas of expertise but also cultivating them in fields where they may lack experience. Unlike traditional development programs that focus solely on enhancing individual strengths, Ngern Tidlor’s strategy is holistic, emphasizing the need to develop a well-rounded, adaptable workforce. The company’s core value of “Thirst for wisdom and self-development” fosters this mindset, creating a culture where employees are motivated to broaden both their knowledge and perspectives to drive themselves to exceed their limits and grow the organization sustainably.
This is where and why Ngern Tidlor launched the "T-Shaped Manager" workshop, aimed at building leaders with in-depth expertise (the vertical line of the T) and broad knowledge (the horizontal line of the T). This workshop focuses on filling knowledge gaps and enabling leaders to become more versatile, preparing them to lead the organization toward sustainable growth.
As Khun Piyasak Ukritnukun, MD at Ngern Tid Lor Public Company Limited, shares:
“This workshop offers new perspectives, knowledge, strong relationships, and deeper understanding across various aspects of work and life. For example, many have become more excited and alert about AI. Including some have learned to question and verify information more thoughtfully. Ultimately, I hope everyone finds joy in what the company aims to provide.”
Innovative Learning with Books and Films
As part of its commitment to holistic leadership development, TIDLOR Academy has introduced a unique learning approach through a curated selection of “12 books” and “11 films.” These resources serve as essential tools in the "T-Shaped Manager" workshop, designed to expand the knowledge and perspectives of over 170 leaders. Rather than focus on familiar subjects, participants are grouped based on areas they are less knowledgeable about, encouraging them to explore unfamiliar territories. This method of learning fosters an environment where leaders actively share and exchange insights, leading to enriched growth with mentors—senior leaders within the organization—play a key role, guiding participants through this learning journey.
For over five months, leaders engage in a mission that involves reading, watching, and discussing the selected books and films, thereby developing new ways of thinking and working. This immersive experience allows participants to incorporate newfound knowledge and perspectives into their professional lives, enhancing both personal growth and organizational impact.
Moreover, the participants joined “Tidlor Talks”, the last mission to represent the culminating experience of the workshop, where participating leaders share their insights and experiences gained from the selected stories, now seen through a new perspective.
These stories also connected “Tidlor Story” that Senior leaders play a pivotal role here, sharing their own stories of success, setbacks, and lessons learned. By openly discussing these experiences, they provide participants with a richer understanding of Ngern Tidlor’s context.
3 Core Principles of Ngern Tidlor’s Workshop
This workshop is not only designed to broaden the knowledge, perspectives, and skills of its leaders but also to achieve three fundamental goals that form the backbone of every Ngern Tidlor workshop. These guiding principles are:
- Connect the Dots (Linking new knowledge)
- Relationships (Strengthening bonds between colleagues)
- Network (Expanding networks at workplace)
Through group activities, such as reading books, watching films, and engaging in shared discussions, the workshop offers participants a chance to exchange ideas and perspectives across departments. These interactions create strong friendships and professional networks, promoting a collaborative environment that encourages innovative thinking. Moreover, by exploring new learning dimensions, participants gain skills and insights they may not have previously encountered, empowering them to apply these learnings effectively in their roles and contribute to the organization’s long-term success.
Reflections from the Leaders
One of the clearest indicators of the workshop’s success is the enthusiastic feedback from Ngern Tidlor leaders, who shared their “AHA Moments” and transformative experiences. These insights reveal the profound impact of the T-Shaped Manager workshop on their personal and professional growth:
“The T-Shaped Manager workshop is a true example of ‘Connecting the Dots.’ It has deepened my understanding of the business we’re in.”
Chaiwat Phantuwat, Analytics and Development.
“I usually don’t enjoy reading, but this workshop unlocked a newfound interest in books for me.”
Wanjaree Sasisuriyaphum, Information Technology.
“My favorite part was the ‘Tidlor Talks,’ where my colleagues shared knowledge from various books and films. It was definitely the highlight of the workshop.”
Nutchanon Akeviriyakit, Credit and Risk Management.
Conclusion: Investing in People for a Sustainable Future
At Ngern Tidlor, investing in people is about more than just enhancing employees’ strengths. It’s a commitment to developing well-rounded leaders by helping them grow in areas outside their comfort zones.
Through creative learning methods—like knowledge integration from books and films—the leaders who participate in these workshops are equipped with insights that they can apply directly in their work. This approach broadens their understanding of the business and strengthens their connection to the organization’s mission to sustainability.