‘Skills strategists’ outperform peers on workforce readiness and engagement

They are 2.5 times more likely to agree that their L&D initiatives are effective at filling skills gaps, and twice as likely to rate skills retention at their organisation as good or excellent.

Skills Strategists are also more than five times as likely to report stronger employee engagement and organisational culture, and are more likely to report stronger financial and non-financial business outcomes.

“Our research shows that organisations taking a strategic approach to workforce development are better positioned to close skills gaps, improve engagement, and drive stronger business outcomes,” said James Atkinson, vice president of thought leadership at SHRM.

“That’s a powerful reminder that investing in people remains one of the smartest investments an organisation can make.”

How to be a ‘Skills Strategist’?

Despite the benefits of a consistent and targeted L&D approach, the report found that only four per cent of firms are focused on long-term skills needs.