Korn Ferry Talent Trends 2027: capability gaps, not talent shortages, will define 2027
Korn Ferry surveyed more than 1,300 talent and senior leaders in over 75 countries for its 13th annual report. 77% say capability gaps will be a bigger problem than talent shortages. Leaders rank adaptability as the top skill for 2027, then critical thinking and collaboration. 91% expect employees to own more of their development, 87% say lateral moves will count as much as promotions, and 67% expect people to move across projects rather than sit in fixed roles.
If sideways moves are valued as much as promotions, a stretch project in another team becomes a real career step rather than a detour, and it is a way to build evidence of adaptability. Most leaders now expect people to drive their own development, so waiting for a formal plan is a risk. 78% of leaders also say too few people are ready for how work will be done.
Save this story, pin it to the top of your feed, or keep a private note on it.
Sign in