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The key is selecting an approach that provides job-relevant and useful information for identifying development needs and measuring progress.

In the May 2026 edition of the Talent Tips column, I introduced the concept of data-driven development, which starts with gathering data. In this column, I explore assessment approaches for gathering the data necessary for supporting data-driven development.

Developing leaders is consistently a top priority for executives and Human Resources, with organizations spending billions annually on leadership development programs. However, there is still a shortage of effective leaders, and many leaders in these development programs struggle to learn critical leadership skills and competencies. Over the past decade, numerous surveys and research studies found that many believe leadership development is broken.

Many of us have worked solely from home during the pandemic. Organizational leaders are working hard to get people back to the office and plant floors, while some organizations are trialing a hybrid approach.

Are you starting a new management or leadership position? When I first started working as a manager three decades ago, I remember that there were many tasks to perform and little instruction on how to lead, engage and recognize my staff.

Over the years I have gained many insights and created a guide with six tips to maintain positive relationships with my employees as a leader. Below are those things I wish I knew about recognition as a first-time manager: