The comparative survey Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI) performed by the renowned business school INSEAD and the Adecco Group measures the ability of individual countries in the race for the most qualified personnel. A total of 114 countries are classified according to their ability to produce, attract and retain talent. The Index is a unique resource used by decision makers in order to develop strategies for increasing competitiveness.

The report confirms that the problem with finding talented personnel is the main concern of companies, countries and cities. Talents are the currency of the future, since they are the main growth and prosperity factor. The very best personnel choose environments most suited for their career development. The GTCI ranking clearly shows which countries and cities are their top choice.

The highest ranked countries have several common key characteristics: a flexible regulative and business environment, and employment policies that merge flexibility with social protection, as well as internal and external openness. Most importantly, however, they all have excellent education systems that teach the skills necessary for finding employment in the modern labour market.

For the past six years, ever since we’ve been publishing the GTCI Index, the top spot has been occupied by Switzerland and the second by Singapore. This year, the USA is ranked third. Slovenia is ranked 29th, while Ljubljana is ranked 50th on the list of most attractive capitals. Slovenia is well positioned in terms of education and living environment. The problems are associated with the creation of a stimulating business environment that would attract talent from all over the world. Factors influencing the lower ranking include the rigid labour market and a strenuous employment process.
Talent competitiveness may be partially improved by the state with its education and employment policies, but also by the companies seeking to establish a competitive corporate culture. Management practices play an important role in attracting talent; in addition to financial stimulation and standard of living, professional leadership and investment in staff development are important as well.

Talent competitiveness in an individual country is highly fluid. Flexible talents often seek career opportunities in the wider region or globally. All countries are faced with the main challenge of developing further innovations in the process of producing, attracting and retaining talent.

Viviana Žorž, Marketing and Public Relations Manager at Adecco