Managing Talent
According to Jack, managers should devote a lot of time, energy, and money to your A and A-minus players, and to let your C players go. By contrast, Patty McCord dislikes the term "A players" and she writes: "Sometimes it's important to let even people who have done a great job go, in order to make space for high performers in new functions or with different skills."
Discuss your ideas about talent management, using the prompts below:
What do you think about the concept of investing in your "A players" more than other employees? Is it still relevant in today's business environment?
Do management practices in your organization align more to Welch or McCord's approach to talent management?
Based on this week's articles, describe one change you would recommend in managing talent at your organization. How would this change produce better results?
Sample Solution
The concept of investing in your "A players" more than other employees is a controversial one. Some people believe that it is the best way to ensure that your organization has the best possible talent, while others believe that it is unfair to other employees and can lead to a toxic work environment. There are a few arguments in favor of investing in A players. First, A players are typically more productive than other employees. They are more likely to come up with new ideas, to take on challenging projects, and to meet deadlines. Second, A players are more likely to be loyal to your organization. They are less likely to leave for a better opportunity, and they are more likely to be willing to go the extra mile.Full Answer Section
However, there are also a few arguments against investing in A players. First, it can be expensive. A players typically command higher salaries and benefits, and they may require more training and development. Second, it can create resentment among other employees. If other employees feel that they are not being given the same opportunities as A players, they may become unhappy and unproductive. Is It Still Relevant in Today's Business Environment? The concept of investing in A players is still relevant in today's business environment. However, it is important to do so in a way that is fair and equitable to all employees. One way to do this is to create a system of performance reviews that identifies A players and provides them with the resources they need to succeed. Another way is to offer training and development opportunities to all employees, regardless of their performance level. Welch vs. McCord Jack Welch's approach to talent management is more focused on identifying and investing in A players. He believes that A players are the key to success for any organization, and he is willing to let go of C players in order to make room for them. Patty McCord's approach is more holistic. She believes that all employees have value, and she is not as quick to let go of C players. She also believes that it is important to create a culture of continuous learning and development, so that all employees can reach their full potential. Recommendations Based on the articles we have read this week, I would recommend making the following changes to the way my organization manages talent:- Create a more transparent and equitable performance review system. This would help to ensure that all employees are evaluated fairly, and that A players are identified and given the resources they need to succeed.
- Offer more training and development opportunities to all employees. This would help to improve the skills of all employees, regardless of their performance level.
- Create a culture of continuous learning and development. This would help to create a more positive and productive work environment, and it would help all employees reach their full potential.