In this annual issue of TD, which celebrates the Association for Talent Development's BEST Award winners, many words come to mind: finest, outstanding, first class, supreme, and second to none. Whichever descriptor you choose to use, there is no denying that these award winners excel above all others in their talent development initiatives.

When you examine the organizations that have earned BEST Awards during the past 15 years, several key characteristics emerge. The winning organizations include learning objectives as part of individual performance goals, have a clear link between learning and performance, use myriad learning delivery methods, and demonstrate visible support from senior leaders. One dominant characteristic is a part of all of the organizations: a culture of learning.

These organizations have worked hard to create a learning culture that is valued and respected. They ensure their employees have the skills to maximize their contributions to their organizations and they are prepared to effectively demonstrate the value of learning to the C-suite and their entire organization.

"Investing precious time and resources in our people is a top priority for TELUS, and our learning and development investment has been, and will continue to be, prioritized," says Darren Entwistle, CEO of 12-time BEST Award winner TELUS.

Striving to be the BEST is a characteristic that many talent development departments have as part of their goals, but few attain that distinction.

Paula Ketter

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