Learning & Recognition: Rethinking Workplace Behavior with Paul Matthews

The Recognition Factor: Transforming Workplace Culture | A Scratchie Podcast

Can recognising good behaviour be more powerful than training? In this episode, learning and development expert Paul Matthews shares groundbreaking insights on why many safety training programs fall short and how positive reinforcement can transform workplace behaviour.
Paul, CEO of People Alchemy and author of multiple books on learning transfer, draws on his extensive background in engineering and L&D to explain why traditional approaches to safety training often fail to create lasting change. Using his powerful SAT NAV analogy, he breaks down the four critical elements needed for successful behavioral change: knowing your starting point, defining clear objectives, creating step-by-step guidance, and maintaining accountability.
Listen in as Paul and James explore:
- Why distinguishing between skill acquisition and skill maintenance is crucial for safety programs
- How immediate rewards tap into powerful behavioral drivers that overcome "future discounting"
- A fascinating case study of how tire fitters transformed their safety culture through peer observation
- The vital differences between compliance-based training and true behavioral change
Key Topics:
00:00 Introduction and Paul's background
08:40 The SAT NAV analogy for learning journeys
15:30 Skill acquisition vs maintenance in safety
23:45 Present vs future benefits in motivation
31:20 Case study: Transforming safety culture
42:10 Practical implementation strategies
Resources Mentioned:
- People Alchemy: www.peoplealchemy.com
- Learning Transfer at Work (Book by Paul Matthews)
- Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve research
Ready to transform your workplace culture through instant recognition? Visit https://www.scratchie.com/book-a-demo to learn how Scratchie can help you build a more engaged and safer workforce.

Ready to take the next step? Visit https://www.scratchie.com/book-a-demo to see how Scratchie can help you recognise and reward safe behaviour on your projects. The future of construction safety starts here.

Luvut

1. Introduction to Paul Matthews (00:00:00)

2. Career Journey and Background (00:04:30)

3. Why Traditional Training Falls Short (00:08:40)

4. Four Elements of Successful Learning (00:14:04)

5. Understanding Training Types (00:23:41)

6. Present vs Future Benefits (00:30:31)

7. Study: Tire Fitters - Transforming Safety Culture (00:35:23)

8. Practical Application Steps (00:42:10)

9. Key Takeaways and Contact Info (00:48:52)