Performance and Potential

Talent is usually assessed using two dimensions:

Performance

Assessment of performance rating is usually taken from the most current performance review.  Performance rating usually reflects the performance against objectives and skills required for a team member’s role and overall contribution

 Potential

Potential is more subjective and based on qualitative assessment.  It is about looking forward and predicating what a team member could be capable of in the future.  Whether a team member is ready to move up within the organisation or stay where they are.

Do not typecast people into a category as their performance and potential changes, and can be developed.

Potential and performance shift over time – e.g. a promotion or change in job can result in performance levels dropping for a short term whilst the person adjusts to the challenges of the new job.

If you discuss the talent plan with your team member take care to position your feedback carefully.  Discuss what you see as the team member’s key strengths and talents and where you see opportunity for them to develop.