Topgrading (How To Hire, Coach and Keep A Players)

Brad Smart's Topgrading is an in-depth manual for transforming how organizations hire and retain top performers, proposing rigorous interview techniques, extensive reference checks, and a focus on hiring track records.

The book lays out processes like the chronological interview and the Topgrading scorecard to objectively evaluate candidates and reduce costly hiring mistakes.

It advocates for building a culture and system that prioritizes continuous talent assessment and development.

Topgrading has been influential among HR leaders seeking to professionalize executive hiring and reduce turnover of high-cost roles.

The approach is detailed and prescriptive, making it suitable for companies willing to invest time and rigor in their hiring processes.