The HR Research Institute, in collaboration with SHL, has released a pivotal study titled 'Talent Mobility Programs 2025,' which sheds light on the critical role of structured skills frameworks in the success of internal mobility programs. The research reveals that while 54% of HR professionals acknowledge the benefits of internal mobility in improving retention and business outcomes, the lack of a robust infrastructure hampers its full potential.
One of the key findings of the study is the significant advantage organizations gain by assessing both employee skills and job requirements, enabling them to match individuals to suitable opportunities more efficiently. However, the challenge of translating and measuring skills within existing frameworks is a hurdle for over half of the respondents, attributed to either overly complex skill libraries or vague role profiles.
Despite the evident advantages of talent mobility in boosting retention and performance, only 8% of organizations possess a concise and user-friendly skills framework, which is essential for effective mobility. The study identifies several barriers to achieving this, including a preference for external hires among managers (33%), limited budgets (28%), and reliance on outdated technology (18%).
Debbie McGrath, Chief Instigator and CEO of HR.com, emphasizes the synergy between reskilling and internal mobility, pointing out that the absence of a clear understanding of employee skills and job requirements can undermine even the most well-intentioned mobility strategies. The study advocates for the integration of mobility into core talent strategies, manager training on the value of internal advancement, investment in scalable technology, and the refinement of skills frameworks for greater clarity and actionability.
The findings of this study are particularly relevant for HR professionals aiming to leverage internal mobility as a strategic tool for enhancing workforce agility, development, and retention. The full report, offering actionable insights for overcoming the execution gap in talent mobility, is available for download, providing a valuable resource for organizations seeking to capitalize on the benefits of a well-structured skills framework.
