This document discusses best practices for effective succession planning. There are four key imperatives for success: 1) Align competency models to business strategy to identify the skills needed now and in the future. 2) Focus succession planning on critical positions that are highly important and difficult to replace. 3) Take stock of current talent to evaluate performance versus potential and identify talent gaps. 4) Target individual development needs by communicating skills requirements, providing growth opportunities, and engaging managers in developing talent. Effective succession planning prepares the organization for future leadership needs.