Learning from Sporting Talent Programs: Insights for HR and Business Leaders

My daughter recently had the incredible opportunity to participate in a pre-season training program for a representative Under 18 Girls sporting team. Two months into the program, I've witnessed remarkable development in not only her fitness and skills but also her growth as a person. The invaluable exposure she gained prompted me to reflect on the lessons the corporate world can take from top sporting programs when developing internal talent.

Here are some takeaways:

Talent Identification Systems and Processes: Just like talent scouts in the sporting arena, businesses need clear criteria and robust systems to identify and nurture talent. Having a structured approach is key.

Recognition and Commitment to Development: Despite not receiving any monetary compensation, junior athletes (and parents!) dedicate significant time to a talent program. For businesses, recognition, coupled with a commitment to development, can be a powerful motivator for employees.

Quantifying Growth: Establishing a baseline for improvement is crucial. By measuring progress over time, businesses can not only track ROI but also provide positive reinforcement to participants. This is something sporting programs do very well with athlete testing before and after a pre-season.

Role Models: Involving mentors and previous talent program participants can be a powerful motivator. Learning from those who have succeeded before creates a supportive and inspiring environment.

Accountability: Implement mechanisms to keep talent program participants mutually accountable. This can include online communication channels for progress updates, fostering a sense of responsibility.

Culture: Foster a culture of continuous improvement, both individually and collectively. Talent programs should focus on personal journeys while promoting growth within the entire cohort.

Sustainability: Tiered, consistent and sustainable talent programs yield long-term benefits. Ensure there is a structured pathway for development, feeding talent from one level to the next.

Defining Program Success: Not every athlete can make it to the top league however talent programs have broader benefits, such as strengthening depth and elevating the sport in general. Similarly internal talent programs contribute to overall organisational growth, enhancing retention, culture, capability, engagement and business performance.