Grooming Next-Generation Leaders (HBS Working Knowledge)

"There are some that can see it in themselves; there are some that need to be informed," says Narayandas. "Talent needs to be nurtured: Many times it takes someone else who can recognize that an individual can think beyond their job, can think bigger, and has the potential to make a bigger impact.

After your organization trains and mentors leaders, how can it retain them? Talented employees thirst for challenging assignments, and they need to be listened to, says Sasser. "If you invest in these people, you must give them significant work.

"People like to follow people who have vision. People like to follow leaders who can explain why we're doing something. And people like to follow people who have said, 'You know what, it's not going to be an easy journey; we're going to have a lot of adversity, but here's why I think we can get it done.'