Skills Frameworks Essential for Talent Mobility Success, Study Finds

A recent study conducted by the HR Research Institute in partnership with SHL underscores the importance of structured skills frameworks in achieving successful internal talent mobility. The report, titled "Talent Mobility Programs 2025," reveals that while 54% of HR professionals acknowledge the benefits of internal mobility on retention and business outcomes, only 8% possess a concise and effective skills framework to support such initiatives.

The research identifies key challenges organizations face, including the difficulty in translating and measuring skills, with over half of the respondents finding their current frameworks inadequate. Common obstacles also include a preference for external hires among managers, limited budgets, and outdated technology. Despite these hurdles, the study suggests that assessing both employee skills and job requirements can significantly improve the matching of individuals to suitable roles.

Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com, emphasizes the synergy between reskilling and internal mobility, pointing out the necessity of a clear understanding of employee skills and job needs for successful execution. 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 to enhance clarity and actionability.

The findings offer valuable insights for HR professionals aiming to leverage internal mobility as a tool for improving retention, development, and workforce agility. The full report is available for download, providing actionable recommendations to bridge the execution gap in talent mobility programs.