A recent study conducted by the HR Research Institute in partnership with SHL underscores the pivotal role of structured skills frameworks in the success of internal talent mobility programs. The research, titled ‘Talent Mobility Programs 2025,’ delves into the challenges and opportunities organizations face in implementing effective internal mobility strategies. Despite 54% of HR professionals acknowledging the positive impact of internal mobility on retention and business outcomes, the study reveals a significant gap in the infrastructure necessary to fully leverage these benefits.
One of the key findings from the report is the advantage organizations gain by assessing both employee skills and job requirements, enabling them to match individuals to suitable roles more efficiently. However, the study also points out that over half of the respondents struggle with translating and measuring skills due to cumbersome skill libraries or vague role profiles. This challenge is compounded by the fact that only 8% of organizations possess a concise and user-friendly skills framework, which is essential for facilitating successful mobility.
The research identifies several barriers to effective talent mobility, including a preference among managers for external hires (33%), limited budgets (28%), and outdated technology (18%). To overcome these obstacles, the study recommends that HR leaders integrate mobility into their core talent strategy, educate managers on the value of internal advancement, invest in scalable technology, and refine skills frameworks for greater clarity and usability.
Debbie McGrath, Chief Instigator and CEO of HR.com, emphasizes the synergy between reskilling and internal mobility, noting that a clear understanding of employee skills and job requirements is crucial for success. The study suggests that skills frameworks could serve as the foundational element organizations need to execute their mobility strategies effectively.
The full research report is available for download, offering HR professionals actionable insights to enhance their talent mobility programs and drive workforce agility. For more information, visit https://www.shl.com.

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