Introduction

How we develop talent needs a major overhaul. Many businesses find their established methods simply aren’t cutting it anymore. Organizations need talent development that is responsive to very different business needs, and can cope with the uncertainty and pace of today’s business environment.

Speed, adaptability, inclusion, and data-driven innovation – are not what most talent management approaches are known for. Until recently, developing talent was about clearly defined pathways and well-established programs, for exclusive populations.

Increasingly though, People / HR functions are under pressure to:

• Match the business agenda – responding to changing business priorities, at pace
• Make a meaningful difference to diversity and inclusion – beyond rhetoric and intent
• Minimize the risk of losing critical talent – as markets become more active and competitive
• Grow/source capabilities needed to succeed – investing wisely in existing/new employees
• Offer the best learning products and services – innovative, cost-effective, accessible, and impactful

Drawing on the latest evidence, this article uncovers:

• What is agile – organizational, team and individual
• Why developing agile talent is the business agenda
• Nine factors that drive an agile talent agenda - the ‘developing agile talent’ model
• Taking stock - how agile is your current approach?
• What next – potential actions, further help and resources