Picking – and keeping – the cream of the crop : Smart strategies are needed for both recruitment and retention of talent

Purpose – This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings – Finding high potentials and keeping them are different issues, covered by Anders and Fernandez‐Araoz et al. respectively. Anders makes the point that imaginative recruiting policies can stop much talent going adrift or never being discovered. As Fernandez‐Araoz makes clear, smart business practices can keep many of the real talents on board. Greengard's article is a useful “state of play” look at some issues affecting hiring in the USA and the economy generally. It's hard to draw clear‐cut conclusions about the outlook but to some extent that's the point about the uncertain economic times in which we live. Practical implications – The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations. Originality/value – The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to digest format.