Why a Clear Progression Path is Critical

It’s natural for talented individuals to seek advancement opportunities and want to progress within their careers. It also goes without saying that lack of opportunity for advancement / development still rates highly as a contributing factor to staff turnover. So, given that control of this lies directly within your hands as employers, why isn’t more being done to define structured and motivational career paths?

The importance individuals place on advancement opportunities has taken a sharp rise in recent years, with a lack of clear progression paths accounting for a high percentage of resignations. Whether businesses are now looking to expand their team or simply to develop internally, offering advancement is crucial to both recruiting and retaining talent.

How To Deliver A Clear Path To Progression

1. Build a layered organisation chart detailing clearly defined levels, roles, experience and competencies. You need a clear set of criteria in order to manage the advancement process effectively.
2. Consider the personality traits and behaviour patterns of your employees, as well as their experience and skillset. Hard-working and loyal individuals will continue to improve and be motivated as they progress through your business, regardless of their level of experience or present skillset.
3. Offer employees the additional training & development support they require in order to progress within the company – talented and dedicated employees will relish the opportunity to learn.
4. Make time to review: it’s important that you are able to provide your employees with insight and feedback on their current position within the company and their opportunity to progress. Take time to review their performance and development throughout the year, as this will offer both sides the opportunity to discuss any areas which may be affecting the employee’s progression.
5. Be transparent. With clear progression paths come more motivated employees, a greater level of focus in the office and helps employers to identify the success-driven members of their team.

• Do you offer your employees a clear path to progression?
• How have you implemented this process internally?
• How has your organisation benefited from promoting advancement?

Within an environment that welcomes progression, maintains momentum, fosters learning and drives development, you’re contributing to the 360-degree welfare and future of both your business and your employees. Taking just a little time to consider the delivery of a clear progression plan will be crucial to maintaining a competitive advantage in 2019.