Career Progression Framework

Career Progression Framework

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Career Progression Framework: The 7 Steps

Career Progression Framework: The 7 Steps

What is career progression?

Career progression refers to the upward advancement and development of an individual within their professional field. It involves the accumulation of new skills, experiences, and responsibilities over time, leading to increased opportunities and higher levels of responsibility within an organization. It is essential for HR professionals to understand the importance of career progression to attract, retain, and motivate employees.

Career progression is crucial for employee satisfaction and retention. Employees who see a clear path for advancement within the organization are more likely to be engaged and motivated in their work. By providing opportunities for career progression, HR can help employees feel valued and invested in the company, thereby reducing turnover and increasing overall productivity. Additionally, career progression can serve as a powerful tool for attracting new talent, as job seekers are often drawn to organizations that offer opportunities for growth and advancement.

HR plays a vital role in facilitating career progression within the organization. By implementing clear and transparent career development programs, providing opportunities for training and skill development, and offering mentorship and coaching, HR can support employees in their career growth. It is essential for HR to work with managers and employees to identify potential career paths, build meaningful development plans, and provide ongoing support and guidance to ensure successful career progression within the organization.

7 Steps to design a career progression framework

Developing a career progression framework is essential for any organization to effectively manage its talent and provide career progression opportunities for employees. A well-designed career framework can help HR professionals and people managers identify the skills and competencies needed for different roles, and provide a clear path for career advancement and personal development. To design a career framework that meets the needs of your organization and employees, there are 7 key steps to consider. In this section, we provide a detailed overview of each one of these steps.

1. Define organizational goals and needs

In order to effectively recruit and retain top talent, it is imperative for HR to first define the organizational goals and needs. This step involves collaborating with key stakeholders to identify the short-term and long-term objectives of the company, as well as the specific skills and competencies required to achieve these goals. By gaining a clear understanding of the organizational needs, HR can then tailor their recruitment and talent management strategies to attract individuals who possess the necessary qualifications and can contribute to the overall success of the organization.

Defining organizational goals and needs also allows HR to align their recruitment efforts with the company's strategic direction. Whether the focus is on expanding into new markets, improving operational efficiency, or fostering innovation, the HR team can develop job descriptions, competency models, and performance criteria that are directly linked to these objectives. By doing so, HR can ensure that the individuals they bring on board are not only capable of fulfilling current job requirements, but also have the potential to support the organization's growth and development in the future.

Furthermore, by having a clear understanding of the organizational goals and needs, HR can better articulate the value proposition of working for the company, which can be a key factor in attracting top talent. When candidates see that their skills and contributions align with the strategic direction of the organization, they are more likely to be motivated to join the team and contribute to its success.

2. Identify roles and progression pathways

In Step 2 of the career framework definition process, it is crucial to identify roles and career pathways within the organization. This involves clearly defining the different positions and career pathways available to employees. By doing so, HR can effectively communicate to employees the opportunities for growth and advancement within the company and define a career ladder.

One way to identify roles and progression pathways is by creating a detailed organizational chart that outlines the various job titles and the potential pathways for career advancement. This provides employees with a clear understanding of the different positions they can work towards and the skills and experience required for each role. Additionally, HR can work with department managers to define the specific responsibilities and expectations for each position, ensuring that employees have a well-defined roadmap for success.

Ultimately, identifying roles and progression pathways is essential for fostering a positive and motivated workforce. By clearly defining career paths and providing opportunities for growth, HR can help employees feel more engaged and committed to their role within the organization. This can lead to higher job satisfaction, increased productivity, and a more successful and sustainable business.

3. Establish required competencies and skills

In the third step, it is important to establish the required competencies and skills for each role within the organization. This involves identifying the specific knowledge, abilities, and personal attributes that are essential for success in each position. By clearly defining the competencies and skills needed for each role, HR can ensure that they are recruiting and selecting the most qualified candidates.

To establish the required competencies and skills, HR should work closely with hiring managers and other relevant stakeholders to understand the key responsibilities and requirements of each role. This may involve conducting job analysis, reviewing job descriptions, and identifying any necessary qualifications or certifications. Additionally, HR should also consider the long-term goals and objectives of the organization to ensure that the competencies and skills align with the overall strategic direction.

Once the required competencies and skills have been established, HR can use this information to develop job postings, screening criteria, and interview questions. This will help to ensure that the recruitment and selection process is focused on identifying candidates who possess the necessary qualifications and abilities to be successful in the role. 

4. Develop assessment and evaluation criteria

In Step 4 of the hiring process, developing assessment and evaluation criteria is essential for HR to effectively evaluate candidates. This involves creating a set of specific criteria that will be used to evaluate each candidate's qualifications, skill sets, and experience with the job requirements. These criteria should be directly related to the key responsibilities and outcomes of the role, providing a clear guideline for assessing each candidate's potential to excel in the position.

HR professionals should consider using a variety of assessment methods, such as structured interviews, technical skills testing, and behavioral assessments, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate. The assessment and evaluation criteria should be developed in collaboration with the hiring manager, focusing on the specific competencies and traits that are most important for success in the role. Additionally, it's important for HR to ensure that the evaluation process is fair, consistent, and compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.

By developing thorough assessment and evaluation criteria, HR can effectively identify the most qualified candidates for the position, ultimately leading to a successful hire. This step is crucial in ensuring that the hiring process is conducted in a systematic and objective manner, resulting in the selection of the best candidate for the role.

5. Link progression to learning and development

The fifth step is crucial in ensuring the growth and development of your employees. By connecting progression opportunities with learning and development initiatives, you can create a clear pathway for employees to advance in their careers within the organization. This not only motivates them to improve their skills and knowledge but also demonstrates the company's commitment to supporting their professional growth.

To effectively link progression to learning and development, it is important to establish a comprehensive career development plan that offers various opportunities for employees to acquire new skills and knowledge. This can include mentorship programs, leadership training, certifications, and access to online learning resources. By aligning these development opportunities with potential career advancements, employees are more likely to actively participate and engage in their professional growth.

Furthermore, it is essential to communicate the connection between progression and learning and development to employees. This can be done through regular performance evaluations, career discussions, and individual development plans. By clearly outlining the expectations and opportunities for advancement, employees can better understand how their personal growth directly impacts their career progression within the organization. Ultimately, linking progression to learning and development helps to create a culture of continuous improvement and empowers employees to take ownership of their career development.

6. Communicate the framework to current employees

It is crucial to effectively communicate the new framework to employees in order to ensure their understanding and compliance. As HR, developing a communication plan to introduce the framework to all staff members is essential. This can include a range of methods such as emails, team meetings, presentations, and workshops to ensure that all employees are aware of the changes and the reasons behind them.

To effectively communicate the framework, it is important to highlight the benefits and objectives of the new system. This will help employees understand the purpose and goals, which will in turn encourage their buy-in and cooperation. It is also important to provide clear instructions on how the framework will be implemented and how it will impact employees' day-to-day responsibilities and performance evaluations. This transparency will help employees adjust and align their actions with the new framework.

In addition, providing opportunities for open dialogue and feedback from employees can facilitate a smoother transition and help address any concerns or questions. A constructive and open communication process will foster a positive and cooperative atmosphere, ultimately leading to successful implementation of the new framework.

7. Monitor, review, and adapt the framework

As part of the HR department's role, it is important to regularly monitor, review, and adapt the framework in place to ensure it aligns with the company's goals and objectives. Monitoring involves regularly assessing the effectiveness of the framework and identifying any areas for improvement. This may include analyzing HR data, employee feedback, and performance metrics to gauge the overall impact of the framework on the organization.

Reviewing the framework allows HR to evaluate its relevance in the current business environment and make any necessary adjustments. This could involve conducting a thorough analysis of industry trends, changes in regulations, and shifts in the company's strategic direction to ensure the framework remains effective and up-to-date. Adapting the framework is crucial in responding to any changes or challenges that arise, such as new technologies, shifts in workforce demographics, or unexpected market conditions. HR should be proactive in making timely updates to the framework to address these changes and ensure it continues to support the company's HR strategies.

Developing a career progression framework is essential for any organization to effectively manage its talent and provide career progression opportunities for employees. A well-designed career framework can help HR professionals and people managers identify the skills and competencies needed for different roles, and provide a clear path for career advancement and personal development. To design a career framework that meets the needs of your organization and employees, there are 7 key steps to consider. In this section, we provide a detailed overview of each one of these steps.

1. Define organizational goals and needs

In order to effectively recruit and retain top talent, it is imperative for HR to first define the organizational goals and needs. This step involves collaborating with key stakeholders to identify the short-term and long-term objectives of the company, as well as the specific skills and competencies required to achieve these goals. By gaining a clear understanding of the organizational needs, HR can then tailor their recruitment and talent management strategies to attract individuals who possess the necessary qualifications and can contribute to the overall success of the organization.

Defining organizational goals and needs also allows HR to align their recruitment efforts with the company's strategic direction. Whether the focus is on expanding into new markets, improving operational efficiency, or fostering innovation, the HR team can develop job descriptions, competency models, and performance criteria that are directly linked to these objectives. By doing so, HR can ensure that the individuals they bring on board are not only capable of fulfilling current job requirements, but also have the potential to support the organization's growth and development in the future.

Furthermore, by having a clear understanding of the organizational goals and needs, HR can better articulate the value proposition of working for the company, which can be a key factor in attracting top talent. When candidates see that their skills and contributions align with the strategic direction of the organization, they are more likely to be motivated to join the team and contribute to its success.

2. Identify roles and progression pathways

In Step 2 of the career framework definition process, it is crucial to identify roles and career pathways within the organization. This involves clearly defining the different positions and career pathways available to employees. By doing so, HR can effectively communicate to employees the opportunities for growth and advancement within the company and define a career ladder.

One way to identify roles and progression pathways is by creating a detailed organizational chart that outlines the various job titles and the potential pathways for career advancement. This provides employees with a clear understanding of the different positions they can work towards and the skills and experience required for each role. Additionally, HR can work with department managers to define the specific responsibilities and expectations for each position, ensuring that employees have a well-defined roadmap for success.

Ultimately, identifying roles and progression pathways is essential for fostering a positive and motivated workforce. By clearly defining career paths and providing opportunities for growth, HR can help employees feel more engaged and committed to their role within the organization. This can lead to higher job satisfaction, increased productivity, and a more successful and sustainable business.

3. Establish required competencies and skills

In the third step, it is important to establish the required competencies and skills for each role within the organization. This involves identifying the specific knowledge, abilities, and personal attributes that are essential for success in each position. By clearly defining the competencies and skills needed for each role, HR can ensure that they are recruiting and selecting the most qualified candidates.

To establish the required competencies and skills, HR should work closely with hiring managers and other relevant stakeholders to understand the key responsibilities and requirements of each role. This may involve conducting job analysis, reviewing job descriptions, and identifying any necessary qualifications or certifications. Additionally, HR should also consider the long-term goals and objectives of the organization to ensure that the competencies and skills align with the overall strategic direction.

Once the required competencies and skills have been established, HR can use this information to develop job postings, screening criteria, and interview questions. This will help to ensure that the recruitment and selection process is focused on identifying candidates who possess the necessary qualifications and abilities to be successful in the role. 

4. Develop assessment and evaluation criteria

In Step 4 of the hiring process, developing assessment and evaluation criteria is essential for HR to effectively evaluate candidates. This involves creating a set of specific criteria that will be used to evaluate each candidate's qualifications, skill sets, and experience with the job requirements. These criteria should be directly related to the key responsibilities and outcomes of the role, providing a clear guideline for assessing each candidate's potential to excel in the position.

HR professionals should consider using a variety of assessment methods, such as structured interviews, technical skills testing, and behavioral assessments, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate. The assessment and evaluation criteria should be developed in collaboration with the hiring manager, focusing on the specific competencies and traits that are most important for success in the role. Additionally, it's important for HR to ensure that the evaluation process is fair, consistent, and compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.

By developing thorough assessment and evaluation criteria, HR can effectively identify the most qualified candidates for the position, ultimately leading to a successful hire. This step is crucial in ensuring that the hiring process is conducted in a systematic and objective manner, resulting in the selection of the best candidate for the role.

5. Link progression to learning and development

The fifth step is crucial in ensuring the growth and development of your employees. By connecting progression opportunities with learning and development initiatives, you can create a clear pathway for employees to advance in their careers within the organization. This not only motivates them to improve their skills and knowledge but also demonstrates the company's commitment to supporting their professional growth.

To effectively link progression to learning and development, it is important to establish a comprehensive career development plan that offers various opportunities for employees to acquire new skills and knowledge. This can include mentorship programs, leadership training, certifications, and access to online learning resources. By aligning these development opportunities with potential career advancements, employees are more likely to actively participate and engage in their professional growth.

Furthermore, it is essential to communicate the connection between progression and learning and development to employees. This can be done through regular performance evaluations, career discussions, and individual development plans. By clearly outlining the expectations and opportunities for advancement, employees can better understand how their personal growth directly impacts their career progression within the organization. Ultimately, linking progression to learning and development helps to create a culture of continuous improvement and empowers employees to take ownership of their career development.

6. Communicate the framework to current employees

It is crucial to effectively communicate the new framework to employees in order to ensure their understanding and compliance. As HR, developing a communication plan to introduce the framework to all staff members is essential. This can include a range of methods such as emails, team meetings, presentations, and workshops to ensure that all employees are aware of the changes and the reasons behind them.

To effectively communicate the framework, it is important to highlight the benefits and objectives of the new system. This will help employees understand the purpose and goals, which will in turn encourage their buy-in and cooperation. It is also important to provide clear instructions on how the framework will be implemented and how it will impact employees' day-to-day responsibilities and performance evaluations. This transparency will help employees adjust and align their actions with the new framework.

In addition, providing opportunities for open dialogue and feedback from employees can facilitate a smoother transition and help address any concerns or questions. A constructive and open communication process will foster a positive and cooperative atmosphere, ultimately leading to successful implementation of the new framework.

7. Monitor, review, and adapt the framework

As part of the HR department's role, it is important to regularly monitor, review, and adapt the framework in place to ensure it aligns with the company's goals and objectives. Monitoring involves regularly assessing the effectiveness of the framework and identifying any areas for improvement. This may include analyzing HR data, employee feedback, and performance metrics to gauge the overall impact of the framework on the organization.

Reviewing the framework allows HR to evaluate its relevance in the current business environment and make any necessary adjustments. This could involve conducting a thorough analysis of industry trends, changes in regulations, and shifts in the company's strategic direction to ensure the framework remains effective and up-to-date. Adapting the framework is crucial in responding to any changes or challenges that arise, such as new technologies, shifts in workforce demographics, or unexpected market conditions. HR should be proactive in making timely updates to the framework to address these changes and ensure it continues to support the company's HR strategies.

Mistakes to avoid when creating a career progression framework

Career progression is a critical element in the professional life of an employee, and it's equally important for HR departments to facilitate this process effectively. However, certain pitfalls can hinder this progression, both for employees and employers. Awareness and proactive steps to avoid these common mistakes are crucial for ensuring a productive and rewarding career journey.

  • Lack of clear goal-setting: One of the fundamental mistakes is the absence of well-defined career goals. Employees often miss the opportunity to chart a clear path for advancement, leading to a lack of motivation and direction. It's essential for individuals to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for their career growth. Employers, on the other hand, should encourage this practice and can even assist in the goal-setting process during performance reviews or career planning sessions.

  • Neglecting skill development: In an ever-evolving job market, continuous learning and skill development are key. Employees should be proactive in seeking out training opportunities and acquiring new skills relevant to their field. Conversely, employers should facilitate this growth by providing access to training programs, workshops, and further education, thereby investing in their workforce’s long-term potential and adaptability.

  • Failing to seek and provide feedback: Regular feedback is crucial for career development. Employees should actively seek constructive feedback to understand their strengths and areas for improvement. Employers should establish a culture where feedback is given frequently and constructively, ensuring it’s a two-way street where employees also feel comfortable voicing their aspirations and concerns.

  • Overlooking the importance of work-life balance: An imbalance between professional and personal life can be detrimental to long-term career progression and overall well-being. Employees need to maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout and remain productive. Employers should foster an environment that respects personal time and boundaries, promoting flexible work arrangements when possible, and recognizing the importance of mental health.

  • Resistance to change: In a dynamic professional landscape, adaptability is crucial. Employees who resist change can quickly find themselves left behind as industries evolve. It's important for individuals to embrace change, be open to new roles or methods, and view these as opportunities for growth. Employers should encourage a culture of adaptability and innovation, making it easier for employees to accept and thrive in changing circumstances.

Career progression is a critical element in the professional life of an employee, and it's equally important for HR departments to facilitate this process effectively. However, certain pitfalls can hinder this progression, both for employees and employers. Awareness and proactive steps to avoid these common mistakes are crucial for ensuring a productive and rewarding career journey.

  • Lack of clear goal-setting: One of the fundamental mistakes is the absence of well-defined career goals. Employees often miss the opportunity to chart a clear path for advancement, leading to a lack of motivation and direction. It's essential for individuals to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for their career growth. Employers, on the other hand, should encourage this practice and can even assist in the goal-setting process during performance reviews or career planning sessions.

  • Neglecting skill development: In an ever-evolving job market, continuous learning and skill development are key. Employees should be proactive in seeking out training opportunities and acquiring new skills relevant to their field. Conversely, employers should facilitate this growth by providing access to training programs, workshops, and further education, thereby investing in their workforce’s long-term potential and adaptability.

  • Failing to seek and provide feedback: Regular feedback is crucial for career development. Employees should actively seek constructive feedback to understand their strengths and areas for improvement. Employers should establish a culture where feedback is given frequently and constructively, ensuring it’s a two-way street where employees also feel comfortable voicing their aspirations and concerns.

  • Overlooking the importance of work-life balance: An imbalance between professional and personal life can be detrimental to long-term career progression and overall well-being. Employees need to maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout and remain productive. Employers should foster an environment that respects personal time and boundaries, promoting flexible work arrangements when possible, and recognizing the importance of mental health.

  • Resistance to change: In a dynamic professional landscape, adaptability is crucial. Employees who resist change can quickly find themselves left behind as industries evolve. It's important for individuals to embrace change, be open to new roles or methods, and view these as opportunities for growth. Employers should encourage a culture of adaptability and innovation, making it easier for employees to accept and thrive in changing circumstances.

Best resources about career progression

For those seeking to advance their careers or help others in their career journeys, the following books provide a wealth of knowledge, practical advice, and motivational stories.

For those seeking to advance their careers or help others in their career journeys, the following books provide a wealth of knowledge, practical advice, and motivational stories.

Create a better place of work today

Create a better place of work today

Simplify your people workflows and bring value to everyone in the organisation. Experience Humaans today.

Simplify your people workflows and bring value to everyone in the organisation. Experience Humaans today.

Frequent Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is career progression?

Career progression is the process through which an individual advances in their professional life. This advancement typically involves taking on roles with increased responsibilities, broadening one’s skillset, and contributing more significantly to an organization's success. Career progression can take many forms, including promotions, lateral moves to more challenging positions, or a shift to entirely new roles that leverage accumulated experience and skills. It's a journey of personal and professional growth, marked by both achievements and continuous learning.

How can employees demonstrate their readiness for career progression?

Employees can signal their readiness for career advancement by consistently excelling in their current roles and actively seeking opportunities to expand their skillset and experience. This can be achieved through professional development courses, volunteering for new projects, or taking on leadership roles in team initiatives. Demonstrating a proactive attitude, showcasing problem-solving skills, and consistently achieving or surpassing performance targets are also effective ways to illustrate readiness for career progression. Effective communication of one's achievements and aspirations to management is also key.

What role does the HR department play in supporting career progression?

The HR department is instrumental in facilitating career progression within an organization. They are typically responsible for identifying and nurturing talent, providing access to training and development programs, and creating clear career pathways. HR also plays a critical role in implementing mentorship and coaching programs that pair employees with experienced professionals for guidance and support. Additionally, HR departments often oversee performance evaluation processes, providing employees with constructive feedback and identifying areas for growth that align with their career aspirations.

What are some common obstacles to career progression?

Career progression can be hindered by various obstacles, including limited opportunities for advancement within an organization, insufficient recognition or support from management, and a lack of resources for professional development. Other challenges may include an unclear career pathway, workplace cultures that do not value or encourage advancement, and personal circumstances, such as balancing work with other life responsibilities. Navigating these challenges often requires open communication with supervisors and HR, self-advocacy, and sometimes seeking opportunities outside the current organization.

How can an employee Initiate a conversation about career progression with their manager?

Initiating a conversation about career progression involves strategic and thoughtful planning. Employees should request a dedicated meeting with their manager to discuss their career goals. In this meeting, it's important to express enthusiasm for taking on new challenges and to articulate specific areas of interest or types of roles being targeted. Employees should also be prepared to discuss their accomplishments, strengths, and areas they are working to improve. Seeking feedback on performance and asking for advice on how to prepare for future roles can also be part of this conversation, demonstrating a commitment to growth and development.

What is career progression?

Career progression is the process through which an individual advances in their professional life. This advancement typically involves taking on roles with increased responsibilities, broadening one’s skillset, and contributing more significantly to an organization's success. Career progression can take many forms, including promotions, lateral moves to more challenging positions, or a shift to entirely new roles that leverage accumulated experience and skills. It's a journey of personal and professional growth, marked by both achievements and continuous learning.

How can employees demonstrate their readiness for career progression?

Employees can signal their readiness for career advancement by consistently excelling in their current roles and actively seeking opportunities to expand their skillset and experience. This can be achieved through professional development courses, volunteering for new projects, or taking on leadership roles in team initiatives. Demonstrating a proactive attitude, showcasing problem-solving skills, and consistently achieving or surpassing performance targets are also effective ways to illustrate readiness for career progression. Effective communication of one's achievements and aspirations to management is also key.

What role does the HR department play in supporting career progression?

The HR department is instrumental in facilitating career progression within an organization. They are typically responsible for identifying and nurturing talent, providing access to training and development programs, and creating clear career pathways. HR also plays a critical role in implementing mentorship and coaching programs that pair employees with experienced professionals for guidance and support. Additionally, HR departments often oversee performance evaluation processes, providing employees with constructive feedback and identifying areas for growth that align with their career aspirations.

What are some common obstacles to career progression?

Career progression can be hindered by various obstacles, including limited opportunities for advancement within an organization, insufficient recognition or support from management, and a lack of resources for professional development. Other challenges may include an unclear career pathway, workplace cultures that do not value or encourage advancement, and personal circumstances, such as balancing work with other life responsibilities. Navigating these challenges often requires open communication with supervisors and HR, self-advocacy, and sometimes seeking opportunities outside the current organization.

How can an employee Initiate a conversation about career progression with their manager?

Initiating a conversation about career progression involves strategic and thoughtful planning. Employees should request a dedicated meeting with their manager to discuss their career goals. In this meeting, it's important to express enthusiasm for taking on new challenges and to articulate specific areas of interest or types of roles being targeted. Employees should also be prepared to discuss their accomplishments, strengths, and areas they are working to improve. Seeking feedback on performance and asking for advice on how to prepare for future roles can also be part of this conversation, demonstrating a commitment to growth and development.

Trusted by global organisations

Trusted by global organisations

Create a better place of work today

Create a better place of work today

Simplify your people workflows and bring value to everyone in the organisation. Experience Humaans today.

Simplify your people workflows and bring value to everyone in the organisation. Experience Humaans today.

HR software for modern People teams to onboard, manage and grow their employees.

HR software for modern People teams to onboard, manage and grow their employees.