Promotion prospects: "Excel instead of excellence": Three factors determine who makes it to the top in German companies
Many companies always promote the same types of people and leave the workforce frustrated. Experts explain the key mechanisms - and what needs to change.
A growing number of covert searches by headhunters to fill top positions indicate that supervisory boards and entrepreneurs are losing confidence in their top executives and are seeking replacements. According to Nicolas von Rosty, Germany head of Heidrick & Struggles, many managers are hesitant to make radical decisions due to crises, trade conflicts, and artificial intelligence.
The article highlights that poorly suited leadership can have disastrous consequences, including decreased productivity and innovation, and increased employee turnover. In Germany, many top executives rise through internal promotions, a phenomenon known as "Kaminkarriere", which can lead to a lack of diversity and experience. Experts suggest that companies should consider external candidates and provide more opportunities for returnees and those with diverse backgrounds.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's report — not a translation of it. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
