I had a finance professor once say something to the effect that, they’re all good CEOs during the good times but the bad times will expose who was meant to be one.  With the uncertainty in the economy, political landscape, housing, new trends, world wars, and other events, it’s becoming more evident that leadership is being tested and the good is being separated from the bad.

Looking at how companies often let talent walk out the door is just one way to see how management is failing. They subject candidates to multiple rounds of stressful interviews, claiming it’s to ensure a good fit for the team. Yet, despite these exhaustive processes, companies still experience high turnover rates. Why? Because hiring decisions are often based on factors other than skill and capability. They’re based more on whether the interviewers like you personally.

Many diamonds in the rough are overlooked because they just don’t make it far in the lengthy interview process. Even those who make it through the gauntlet of interviews sometimes let go or end up needing performance reviews. This suggests that the hiring process is flawed and not truly focused on skill.

Another issue is management. Many managers shouldn’t be in their positions, affecting team flow and productivity. The title of “manager” comes with perks, but the actual guidance and leadership is where the problem starts. You have some managers with a passive-aggressive, overly aggressive or just passive leadership style that undermines team performance and morale.

With a continuing trend of poor communication and leadership coupled with an unpredictable market, companies are now putting all their efforts into A.I.  Where a few companies are turning to AI to replace employees instead of investing in upskilling them, despite the technology being in its beta stage. This along with the ongoing shift towards automation, creates additional worries regarding job security for many employees.

Instead of looking to replace employees for a venture that may just fizzle out.  Companies should focus on better managerial hires, more opportunities for continued education, or bringing a more streamlined hiring process. During these tumultuous times, strong leadership is essential to navigate challenges and drive success.