Staff Succession Planning Definition
Staff succession planning is a strategic process utilized by organizations to identify and develop future leaders within the company. This proactive approach ensures that the organization has a steady pipeline of qualified employees who are ready to step into new roles when vacancies arise.
Staff Succession Planning Key Features
Identifying high-potential employees: Succession planning begins with the identification of individuals with the potential to take on key leadership positions in the future. These employees are often high-performers who demonstrate the necessary skills and qualities for leadership roles.
Developing talent: Once high-potential employees have been identified, organizations invest in their development through training, mentoring, and other development opportunities. This helps to groom them for future leadership positions.
Creating a succession plan: A succession plan outlines the steps to be taken in the event of a key employee leaving the organization. This plan identifies potential successors and outlines their development needs to ensure a smooth transition.
Monitoring and evaluating progress: Succession planning is an ongoing process that requires regular monitoring and evaluation. HR professionals track the progress of high-potential employees and adjust development plans as needed.
How Does it Work?
Succession planning typically involves collaboration between HR professionals, managers, and senior leaders within the organization. HR professionals identify high-potential employees through performance evaluations, feedback from managers, and assessments of skills and competencies. Once potential successors have been identified, development plans are created to help them build the skills and experience needed for leadership roles.