Aligning talent can be summarized in the employee being able to say "I know, I can, I want".

Having talented employees is a critical factor for the success of any organization. But what does it really mean to align talent? Aligning talent means that the employee has the knowledge to do their job, demonstrated proficiency in applying the knowledge, and is engaged. Let's break down each of these aspects to better understand how to align talent.

Firstly, knowledge (I know) is the foundation of any job. It involves having a deep understanding of the tasks, processes, and industry-related information. Knowledge can be acquired through education, training, and experience. For example, a software engineer needs to have a strong knowledge of programming languages, algorithms, and software development methodologies. An effective way to assess knowledge is through certifications or exams. When an employee has the necessary knowledge, they can perform their job more efficiently and with higher quality. It is important for organizations to provide employees with resources and opportunities to continuously learn and update their knowledge.

Secondly, demonstrated proficiency (I can) is about applying the knowledge effectively in a real-world context. Proficiency is gained through practice and experience. Simply knowing something is not enough; employees need to be able to transfer that knowledge into action. For instance, a salesperson may have extensive knowledge about the company's products and sales techniques, but if they struggle to close deals and meet targets, their proficiency may be lacking.

Lastly, engagement (I want) is a crucial aspect of talent alignment. Engaged employees are motivated, committed, and passionate about their work. They go the extra mile, take initiative, and contribute to the organization's goals. Engagement is fostered through a positive work environment, meaningful recognition, growth opportunities, and clear communication of the organization's vision and values. For example, a marketing executive who is engaged in their job would proactively contribute ideas, show enthusiasm for new campaigns, and continuously seek ways to improve results.