By: Patty Prosser
This may seem obvious to some, but I am continuously puzzled by companies that tend to ignore their top performers when designing leadership development programs. All leaders, regardless of their developmental needs, should be invested in!
The fact is, if you are not feeding your High-Potential talent with intentional and meaningful growth opportunities (challenging assignments, stretch goals, leadership coaching, advancement opportunities), you are risking them leaving you for a company that will. And we all know how costly to the business replacing them can be!
Your High-Potential leaders (also known as HiPos) are the cornerstone of your organization’s future success. While it’s easy to focus on addressing performance gaps or managing day-to-day operations, giving attention to your HiPos is equally critical for several reasons:
- Retention of Top Talent
High-potential leaders are highly sought after in the job market. Neglecting their growth and engagement could lead them to seek opportunities elsewhere, leaving your organization with a talent gap that might be difficult to fill.
- Maximizing Their Potential
HiPos often have the skills and mindset needed to take on more responsibility. By investing in their development, you help them reach their full potential, which can drive innovation and performance across the organization.
- Building Future Leaders
Today’s HiPos are tomorrow’s leaders. Giving them the tools, leadership coaching, mentorship, and opportunities they need ensures a strong leadership pipeline for the future, which is crucial for succession planning and long-term organizational stability.
- Driving Organizational Growth
HiPos are natural change agents and are often willing to take calculated risks. When supported and empowered, they can lead initiatives that contribute significantly to business growth and transformation.
- Boosting Morale and Engagement
When HiPos feel valued and recognized, it boosts their morale and keeps them engaged. This creates a ripple effect, as their enthusiasm and drive often inspire others in the organization.
Ways to Support Your HiPos:
- Personalized Development Plans: Provide tailored opportunities like training, mentorship, and stretch assignments.
- Regular Feedback and Recognition: Keep them motivated by acknowledging their efforts and offering constructive feedback.
- Leadership Coaching: Provide individualized coaching programs designed to empower individuals to achieve tangible and lasting success while supporting your organization’s strategic business objectives
- Challenging Opportunities: Let them lead high-impact projects or cross-functional teams to expand their skills.
- Clear Career Pathways: Help them see the bigger picture and understand how their role fits into the company’s future.
By giving your HiPos the attention and resources they need, you’re not just investing in their growth – you’re securing the future of your organization.
We have a variety of Leadership Coaching Programs at The Center for Leadership Excellence specifically targeted at High-Potential leaders, as well as solutions to other leadership needs you might be experiencing. I invite you to check out the Coaching section of our website at www.cleindy.com/coaching to learn about the many ways we can help!
Patty Prosser is Co-Founder and Coaching Practice Leader at The Center for Leadership Excellence. For more information, please contact Patty at 317-727-6464 or pprosser@cciindy.com.