A key to becoming a successful business leader is to identify the talents that you will need, and then find the employees who can fill those needs.
Many managers express uncertainty about how to begin looking for talent and are overwhelmed with the idea of implementing a search within the workforce. But, many times the talent that already exists within a company goes overlooked. So, how can you identify and grow talent within your company?
Developing the talent of your employees can be one of the most effective means of employee retention. This can be implemented through in-house training programs that will help you identify, select and train specific high-potential individuals.
But training programs can work for all and don’t always have to have the goal of finding your next rising stars. They can include topics such as goal-setting, getting your mindset right, and developing a successful work/life integration which will allow all your employees to be present and give their best to your company.
Over 70% of Fortune 500 companies have an established mentoring program. In addition, over 75% of executives list their mentors as one of the reasons they are successful. When done correctly, mentorship can be powerful.
Will your company pair new employees with a seasoned employee? Do you want to mentor highly qualified individuals who may be on a leadership track within your company? With a customized program, you can narrow down your mentorship to cultivate exactly the specific skills your company needs.
Establish an individual development program for each employee. What skills do they currently possess? What skills would they like to obtain? What are their future plans? By helping each employee develop a training plan, you can ensure that they are receiving the training they need to accomplish their goals, and they will be more equipped to perform their job.
Offer new training programs that can help employees learn new aspects of the job, problem-solving strategies or use new technologies. Encourage your employees to take continuing education courses, attend workshops and other training events as part of their jobs. Bring training programs to your workplace as part of Lunch and Learns, afternoon seminars and more. Offer courses that may not seem directly related to their jobs but will help them become better employees and ready for a rapidly changing future.
Sometimes, it is necessary to hire an outside individual, especially as turnover is at an all time high. Rather than make that the go-to solution, however, when possible find ways to promote from within. Inform employees of openings in the company and provide a path to advancement, so employees know what skills and requirements they must meet to be eligible for promotion
Your workforce is full of talented individuals. Allowing your employees to use their talents will not only benefit your company, it will help them become more engaged in their work and will reduce turnover as a result. Go looking for the hidden talent in your company – you may be surprised at what you discover!
Interested in learning more about how to attract, retain, engage and appreciate your employees? Check out our blog, where we explore new topics regularly.
