Talent management: Guidance for people professionals

Talent management is the systematic attraction, identification, development, engagement, retention, and deployment of those individuals who are valuable to an organisation, because of their potential or the critical role they have. Essentially, it is the process of getting the right people in the right roles at the right time to achieve business success.

Effective talent management practices, especially when aligned to organisational strategies, can help create a high-performing workplace whilst also increasing productivity, promoting diversity, and providing growth and development opportunities. Effective talent management can also support a strong employer brand.

CIPD research highlights the importance of talent management. Organisations are facing increasing competition for talented individuals; many experience difficulties in attracting and recruiting candidates (especially for senior and highly skilled roles), and face challenges with employee retention. Effective talent management can help overcome these issues.

There is no single ‘best’ way to undertake talent management; organisations should consider their own context, goals and business needs to ensure that any chosen talent management approach taken works for them.

This guide provides advice on using an evidence-based, principles-led approach for talent management to help you develop a strategy that works for your organisation. The guide also links to tools at each stage of the process to help with the practical implementation of talent management practices.