Talent Development: nurturing growth for everyone
When thinking of talent development, many think of a specific population: the younger generation. A white canvas to paint on. However, Relevance colleagues Esmée Tijs and Richard Bertou identify a shift in the employment of talent development programs.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, talent development has shifted from being a luxury for the few to a necessity for all. In this episode of The Relevance Podcast, Esmée Tijs (lead consultant in leadership and personal development) and Richard Bertou (client director) from Relevance share why talent development should focus on personal growth, not just skills.
These used to be just for the ‘lucky few’. Fortunately, today, talent development is for everyone. Do you want to reconnect with your ambitions and talents? Find a new passion? Make an impact in another part of your organization? In this episode Esmée and Richard confirm: you’re never too old to learn! Talent development is not about skills, but personal growth.
Guests: Jim Morris (host), Esmée Tijs (lead consultant in leadership and personal development) and Richard Bertou (client director)
“Talent management isn’t the goal. It’s a means to an end. We need to design learning journeys that meet the real needs of the organization.” – Richard Bertou
It’s not just about skills
Esmee explains how traditional approaches often overemphasize skill-building while overlooking individual growth. “Learning and development have the most impact when we focus on how people can and want to grow as individuals, with all their amazing talents,” she says.
Richard adds that talent development used to be exclusive—reserved for young trainees or top leaders—but is now moving towards inclusivity: “Everyone has talent, and everyone deserves the chance to grow.”
Why talent development matters
Talent development isn’t just about recruitment; it’s about retention. By helping employees rediscover their strengths—even mid-career—organizations can reinvigorate engagement and create a culture of lifelong learning.
Relevance’s approach is unique because:
✅ Blended learning – Combining online, face-to-face, and virtual sessions.
✅ Action-based learning – Practicing real-life scenarios with feedback loops.
✅ Customization – No “one size fits all.” Programs are tailored to organizational and individual needs.
Learning that fits life
Gone are the days of two-day workshops in hotels. Today’s learners want flexibility: bite-sized modules, coaching sessions, and on-demand learning available 24/7. Esmee emphasizes: “You’re at the steering wheel of your own development. The program fits you—not the other way around.”
Quotes to remember
💬 Richard’s challenge: “Don’t focus only on young talent. What about mid-career employees? Help them reconnect with their values and talents to create impact across your organization.”
💬 Esmee’s quote: “Trust that your talent is your art. Say yes to adventures—big or small—and create your masterpiece.”
About The Relevance Podcast
The Relevance Podcast explores what it means for organizations and employees to stay relevant in today’s rapidly changing world. Our diverse speakers share their expertise alongside personal stories and real-world case studies. Their insights offer practical tips for both your work and personal life – now and in the future.
Listen to more episodes on Spotify.
