Key lessons and obstacles
Due to several factors impacting on the final results, it is too early to develop a picture of
bench strength by job level or business unit. A random sample of employees at multiple job
levels was used for this pilot project but the nomination criteria are unclear and possibly
inconsistent across business units. The sample is too small to extrapolate or draw
meaningful conclusions; however, there seems to be an indication of a shallow leadership
pipeline and in some instances a clogged pipeline.
Recommendations
The following actions are recommended to enhance the talent review process and capitalize
on the results:
B apply additional measures to develop a more complete picture of individual capability;
B fast-track the talent review process;
B create a talent score card;
B review selection practice;
B determine retention risk by means of a risk-criticality analyses; and
B implement individual conversations about performance and career development.
Conclusion
There is no single method no matter how accurate that can predict an individual’s potential
for success. Using different assessment instruments increases the overall accuracy when
identifying potential. A talent review process is therefore the key to effective succession
management since it ensures that all succession decisions are based on scientific grounds.
Succession management is not a guessing game or a toss-up between candidates. It is a
comprehensive process that starts by defining business requirements and talent
capabilities for the future success of the organization. On this basis, companies are
encouraged to conduct a talent review to identify potential successors for critical roles. This
should be followed by a gap analysis and individual development plans which should be
measured and monitored. Only then can companies succeed in their strategic HR planning
and management.
References
Bersin and Associates (2009), Executive Summary on High Impact Succession Management, Bersin and
Associates, Oakland, CA.