Study Reveals Critical Gaps in Employee Career Development Programs

A recent study conducted by HR.com's HR Research Institute has uncovered significant deficiencies in employee career development programs across organizations. The report, HR.com's Future of Career Development and Mobility 2024-25, indicates that only 20% of companies have reached the top two levels of program maturity, signaling a pressing need for improvement in supporting employee growth and development. The research findings present a concerning picture of the current state of career development and internal mobility efforts, with just 37% of organizations considering themselves effective in career development and only 42% reporting success in internal mobility initiatives.

Perhaps most alarmingly, the study reveals that only 22% of organizations offer sufficient employee development opportunities to keep pace with workforce demands. These statistics highlight a critical gap between employee expectations for career growth and the actual support provided by employers. As the job market continues to evolve and employees increasingly prioritize personal and professional development, organizations that fail to address these shortcomings may find themselves at a significant disadvantage in attracting and retaining top talent. The implications extend beyond recruitment challenges, potentially leading to skill gaps within the workforce that could hamper organizational productivity and innovation.

The study also sheds light on the crucial role of managers in fostering employee career development, uncovering several concerning trends. While 54% of organizations report that managers are encouraged to help employees develop their careers, the research shows that in 34% of organizations, managers actively discourage internal movement to retain high performers, potentially stifling career growth and organizational agility. More troubling is the finding that only 15% of companies have managers equipped with the necessary skills to develop employees effectively, and a mere 10% of organizations recognize and reward managers for developing their direct reports.

Debbie McGrath, Chief Instigator and CEO of HR.com, emphasizes the importance of empowering managers in this process, noting that managers are uniquely positioned to drive employee development but need the right training, tools, and incentives to succeed. Organizations that prioritize manager development can build a more engaged, agile, and productive workforce. The full research report provides a detailed examination of current employee development and training programs, offering actionable insights and recommendations for HR professionals looking to enhance their career development initiatives. As organizations navigate an increasingly competitive talent landscape, prioritizing employee career development has become a strategic imperative rather than an optional benefit.