A PERENNIAL ISPA MEMBER FAVORITE presenter, Dr. Bryan K. Williams spoke about High Expectations: The Key to Attracting, Retaining & Developing Great People at the 2025 ISPA Conference. The session complements Williams’ s“ High Expectations” column appearing quarterly in Pulse throughout 2025.( Find the first installment of the year-long series in the March / April issue and watch for his second article in the June / July issue this summer.)

DR. BRYAN K. WILLIAMS’ s Education Session explored what drives high performers and how leaders can cultivate a culture of growth, autonomy and engagement.

High performers are motivated by high expectations and continuous learning. In fact: l 74 percent of workers are willing to learn new skills or retrain to stay employable. l 70 percent would consider leaving their job for a company that invests in employee development. l 86 percent of millennials say training and development could keep them from leaving their current role.

Beyond learning, high performers seek coaching: l 50 percent want to be coached at work. l 53 percent feel their manager meets their feedback expectations.

CALL TO ACTION: CREATE FLOW

Fostering a sense of“ flow” is essential for maximum engagement of high performers. Don’ t rely solely on annual or semi-annual performance reviews. Instead, leaders can challenge employees with stretch projects, encourage quarterly goal-setting and support ongoing skill development.

By setting high expectations and providing the right support, organizations can keep top talent engaged and performing at their best. n

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