Talent Management Study Compares Practices of Small, Midsize, and Large Companies

A new joint research study by IBM and Human Capital Institute for Business Week indicates significant differences in talent management practices among small, medium, and large companies. Based on questions asked of 1900 individuals in more than 1000 companies, the research found that companies of 10,000 to 50,000 employees are implementing talent management strategies most effectively:

“Large companies outperformed the total sample by 4% in linking workforce-management strategy to business strategy, and by 7% in having metrics that provide input into strategic workforce planning decisions.”

Small organizations of fewer than 1,000 employees did well in certain specific areas:

“Small companies were 4% better than the total sample at collaboration and sharing knowledge, 6% better at promoting virtual working, and 4% better at identifying relevant skills.”

Mid-size companies were found to be doing the least in regards to talent management:

“Surprisingly, medium-size companies—between 1,000 and 10,000 employees—were less likely to have implemented five out of the six talent management practices in the study.”

The article concludes by stating that companies that achieved the best results from talent management initiatives were those that focused on employee engagement levels and on aligning employee incentives with business goals. (RN)

Talent Management: How to Invest in Your Workforce | Business Week | Douglas MacMillan | 13 August 2008

Tagged as: Talent Management