Which term focuses on preparing for future leadership by identifying and developing potential successors?

Which term focuses on preparing for future leadership by identifying and developing potential successors?

• A. Succession planning
• B. Leadership development
• C. Career planning
• D. Talent management

Answer: (A)

Succession planning is about preparing for future leadership by identifying potential successors for key roles and actively developing their capabilities. It starts with pinpointing which positions are critical to the organization and then creating development plans, mentoring, stretch assignments, and targeted training to build readiness. The aim is to have capable leaders available when vacancies arise, ensuring continuity and alignment with strategic goals. Leadership development focuses more on growing the abilities of current leaders, talent management covers a broader set of activities around attracting and retaining talent, and career planning is individual-focused, helping an employee chart their own path rather than building an organizational pipeline for future leadership.

Succession planning is about preparing for future leadership by identifying potential successors for key roles and actively developing their capabilities. It starts with pinpointing which positions are critical to the organization and then creating development plans, mentoring, stretch assignments, and targeted training to build readiness. The aim is to have capable leaders available when vacancies arise, ensuring continuity and alignment with strategic goals. Leadership development focuses more on growing the abilities of current leaders, talent management covers a broader set of activities around attracting and retaining talent, and career planning is individual-focused, helping an employee chart their own path rather than building an organizational pipeline for future leadership.