No one wants to see their superstars take their talents to another company. To keep your superstars engaged:
- Check regularly to make sure things are going as well as you think. Just like everybody else, superstars need to provide regular reports on their tasks, responsibilities, and projects.
- Brainstorm about recurring problems and innovative solutions.
- Learn from their front-lines intelligence and their analysis.
- Help them pursue technical expertise, professional training, and any specialized knowledge.
- Make sure their needs are met so they aren’t looking for another job. Ask regularly, “What do you need from me?” Look for ways to provide them with special rewards.
- Challenge superstars to be peer leaders and to take advantage of ad hoc leadership opportunities such as short-term projects and teams. Coach them every step of the way.
- Teach them the tricks and the shortcuts, warn them of pitfalls, and help them solve problems. Counsel them through difficult judgment calls.
- Talk strategically about how they should navigate their careers within the organization. Recommend strategies for pursuing raises, promotions, or desired work conditions.
- Use your influence and authority within the organization to make sure the most valuable players are getting the lion’s share of resources to support and accelerate their career success.
