Skills Frameworks Essential for Effective Talent Mobility, Study Finds

A study by the HR Research Institute in partnership with SHL underscores the importance of structured skills frameworks in achieving successful internal talent mobility. The research, titled 'Talent Mobility Programs 2025,' reveals that while 54% of HR professionals acknowledge the benefits of internal mobility for retention and business outcomes, only 8% possess a concise and practical skills framework necessary for its effective implementation.

The findings indicate that organizations assessing both employee skills and job requirements are better equipped to match individuals with suitable opportunities efficiently. However, challenges such as bloated skill libraries and unclear role profiles hinder the translation and measurement of skills. Common obstacles include a preference for external hires by managers, limited budgets, and outdated technology.

Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com, emphasizes the synergy between reskilling and internal mobility, pointing out the necessity of clear skills frameworks for successful execution. The study suggests that HR leaders should integrate mobility into their core talent strategy, educate managers on its value, invest in scalable technology, and refine skills frameworks for better clarity and actionability.

The report, available for free download, provides actionable insights for HR professionals aiming to leverage mobility as a tool for enhancing retention, development, and workforce agility. For more details, visit https://www.shl.com or https://hr.com/hrresearchinstitute.