Finally, A Way to Effectively Predict Potential!

A WIN-WIN Strategy for Leadership Development

Organizations have been utilizing the 9-box approach to succession planning for many years, yet the challenge of measuring potential is often very subjective and based on who knows whom! Organizations have sought to reduce the impact of the “halo effect” or “fair-haired” syndrome by developing leadership competency models and applying them to the evaluation process. However, the challenge of actually measuring one’s potential relative to competencies generally remains subjective. Finally, there is a behavioral analytics approach that removes the subjectivity of predicting leadership potential. How is it accomplished?

A Behavioral Assessment that Measures Competencies

Harrison Assessments is a behavioral assessment system that utilizes a unique and powerful technology-based survey to measure over 175 traits and competencies in only 20-30 minutes. Because it measures a comprehensive range of workplace preferences, Harrison’s system enables organizations to map their competencies to specific traits measured by the Harrison. Once competencies are mapped to the Harrison traits, the resulting “template” or report for each competency can be utilized to measure candidates’ level of competency based on their trait or behavioral preferences.

Why Measuring Behavioral Preferences Is Predictive of Potential

Harrison Assessments is based on the Enjoyment-Performance Theory, which simply stated means “what we like, is what we do, and is what we get good at.” Therefore, by measuring behavioral preferences, Harrison Assessments is predictive of skill or competency. Voilà, a valid measurement of leadership potential!

For example, Harrison has developed a set of ten leadership competencies for emerging and experienced leaders. Organizations may choose to use these competencies, customize them, or map their internally designed set of competencies using the Harrison Assessments’ easy-to- apply and cost-effective trait mapping technology.

The Measurement Process

When a candidate completes the Harrison behavioral survey online, the resulting “competency fit” report provides a detailed measurement of how the individual rated each trait preference. This reveals specific trait strengths, as well as potential traits for development. In addition, Trait Development reports are provided to facilitate development of identified traits within each competency requiring skill improvement. Candidates, their managers and OD/Learning professionals appreciate a practical, specific developmental process that promotes learning and performance improvement.

EQ Competencies Impact Leadership Development

Harrison Assessments has developed a set of Emotional Intelligence competencies as well. In working with both highly experienced leaders and emerging or high-potential leaders, we have found that often the areas of development identified through performance reviews, 360 assessments, and Harrison Assessments complete report, are “echoed” or reinforced as developmental opportunities in the Harrison EQ competency reports. How is this helpful? When they realize that by focusing development on one or two key traits they can improve their performance across a number of essential leadership competencies, leaders are encouraged and motivated to develop!

Accelerate Leadership Development & Realize Potential

Identification of specific traits on which to focus development engages leaders in the development process and accelerates realization of their leadership potential. This facilitates career development, as well as succession planning, creating a win-win strategy for the organization and every employee desiring leadership development, promotion and career growth. Implementing effective measurement of potential dramatically improves engagement and retention, a goal of every organization. Whether you have internally developed competencies, or would like to utilize a standard set of researched leadership competencies, your organization can start today to prepare for your future leadership needs.

Dawson Consulting Group is a Harrison Assessments Solutions Partner.

Harrison Assessments Certification With Sheryl Dawson, Solutions Partner