Study Highlights Critical Role of Structured Skills Frameworks in Talent Mobility Success

A recent study by the HR Research Institute, in collaboration with SHL, titled 'Talent Mobility Programs 2025,' provides compelling evidence on the importance of structured skills frameworks in the effectiveness of internal mobility initiatives. Despite 54% of HR professionals noting positive impacts on retention and business outcomes from such programs, the absence of a streamlined, practical skills framework significantly limits their potential. Currently, only 8% of organizations possess a framework that meets these criteria, with many struggling with overly complex skill libraries and vague role definitions.

The research further identifies that organizations which evaluate both employee competencies and job requirements are more successful in aligning individuals with appropriate roles. Nevertheless, more than half of the participants report difficulties in accurately translating and assessing skills within their existing frameworks. Key obstacles to effective talent mobility include a managerial bias towards external recruitment, constrained financial resources, and reliance on obsolete technological solutions.

Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com, highlights the integral connection between reskilling efforts and internal mobility, stressing the importance of a transparent understanding of both employee capabilities and organizational needs. The study advocates for several strategic actions to overcome these challenges: integrating mobility into fundamental talent management approaches, educating managers on the benefits of internal progression, adopting flexible and scalable technology, and improving the precision of skills frameworks.

These insights call for HR leaders to focus on developing comprehensive skills frameworks to fully leverage talent mobility as a means to foster employee retention, professional growth, and organizational adaptability. The complete findings, offering valuable guidance for HR professionals seeking to refine their internal mobility strategies, are accessible for free download.