What's your succession plan?

We all like to think we’re indispensable, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need a succession plan.  Have you thought about what that looks like and how you’ll get there?

Most of us want to encourage our staff to move forward and learn and grow in their roles, but until you start seriously planning skill development, you may not cultivate the specific knowledge and talent needed when you have an open position.  Look at your staff and identify potential abilities and areas for growth.

But what if the individual identified to move into a position doesn’t work out?

Contrary to popular belief, making a strategic plan for skill development does not lock you into a specific destiny.  Even if your plan is for someone to take over, be transparent in letting them know that there are no guarantees.  None of us know what the future may bring and it could change our needs.  However, in the meantime, help them learn and develop skills needed to move forward in the career path of their choice.  It’s still a win-win situation.

What differentiates you in your position?  How can you help others learn those skills? Who could bring in a new perspective that could potentially increase business? Which staff do you want to retain and how do you plan to keep them inspired?

These are all considerations in succession planning.  The key is to make

the plan! It’s easy to get caught up in the day to day and not believe you have time to look forward.  Failure to plan is what often gets us in trouble.  Taking the time to determine what’s needed and forge a path to get there will be worthwhile for you and your staff.

Plan ahead.  Find your replacement.  After all, you want to move up and on, too!

#positivity #management #hrconsultant #successionplanning

How can you help others learn so you can pass the baton at work?