Global HR research firm McLean & Company has dropped an essential guide to redefine how organizations approach skills practices. The verdict? A one-size-fits-all transformation to skills-based operating models is not the answer. Instead, organizations must adapt skills and practices to their unique context for maximum impact.
As businesses navigate an unpredictable era, the focus on skills has skyrocketed. McLean & Company highlights that while skills-based models promise agility, innovation, and deeper talent pools, the transition comes with challenges. From reduced role clarity to innovation fatigue, diving headfirst into a skills overhaul might be confusing for many organizations.
Instead, the firm suggests becoming “skills-aware”, a middle ground where organizations utilize skills selectively without abandoning job-based frameworks entirely. This approach, they say, balances adaptability with structure, helping organizations reap benefits while avoiding pitfalls.
Breaking It Down: What HR Leaders Need to Know
McLean & Company’s new guide provides a roadmap to implementing personalized skills practices:
- Assess & Uncover
Evaluate your organization’s strategic direction, workforce data, and industry trends to identify gaps and opportunities.
- Scope & Prioritize
Shortlist practices that align with your culture, technology, and workforce needs. Secure leadership buy-in to ensure success.
- Plan & Implement
Create strong change management plans, track progress, and iterate to build a sustainable skills strategy.
Why This Matters
“Skills aren’t a universal fix,” says Grace Ewles, Director at McLean & Company. “Strategically incorporating skills into HR practices allows organizations to stay future-ready without crushing their systems.”
For HR leaders, the takeaway is clear: A custom-fit approach is the way forward. Build a foundation of reliable skills data, but don’t rush the process. The future of work depends on getting this right.
Want to dive deeper? Access McLean & Company’s Utilize Skills Practices in HR Guide by contacting ktame@infotech.com.
Interested in more actionable insights? Join McLean & Company’s free CHRO panel on February 13, 2025, for expert perspectives on emerging HR trends. Register now.
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