I see a great trend happening, organizations starting to get back to the routine of developing leaders – both current and future. It is good for people and for leaders. It is a nice trend.
My only concern is the mindset that focus = money in the minds of many leaders. I know real priorities receive budget and headcount, but let me offer some competing thoughts.
- Importance = time
- Importance = presence
Let me explain.
Your best people are not looking for more compensation or awards, they just want new challenges, engaged teammates, and a chance to do what they love. Uncertain of my compensation claim? Read Drive by Daniel Pink or chapter 7 in Sway by Ori/Rom Brafman. Not buying into what high potentials need? Read trU Tips #2 that I published.
Instead of starting with a pay per use leadership program or hiring a Director of Talent Management, step back and ask yourself “Are we doing the basic things that will drive the right development conversations regardless of the economy?” Here is a guide for your self assessment.
Developing your leaders for today and tomorrow is not about spending money, it is about investing time into:
- Conversations that let people know they matter
- Conversations that help you understand what people want /need
- Conversations that help create a target for people to strive for
- Conversations that let people know that you are watching, willing to help, AND that you care about their success
Great talent management is about investing time.
Budget does not replace time. If you can only do one – – – start with time.