Growing a Talent-Friendly Environment

In my 11 years living in Baltimore, I’ve cultivated an award-winning garden that has been recognized locally and regionally. But this wasn’t achieved with a quick weekend trip to Home Depot. It’s been the result of time, care, and constant attention. Every part, whether bold, subtle, or classic has been curated, regularly assessed, pruned, and nourished. Some plants outgrow their space and need to be moved; others thrive exactly where they are.

The same goes for building a thriving organization.

We often search for that “savior” hire, hoping they’ll solve every problem. But here’s the reality: if your environment isn’t prepared, even the most talented individual can’t thrive. Think about it. Would you plant a sun-loving palm in deep shade and expect it to flourish? No. The environment must be right for the plant to reach its potential. And the same applies to top talent.

Statistics show 68% of employees leave within six months if their expectations aren’t met. Are you truly ready to receive the growth that new talent will bring? Is your organization flexible enough to embrace change, or are you too emotionally tied to outdated systems?

A well-tended garden doesn’t grow by accident, and neither does a healthy work environment. You need regular self-assessment—asking the tough questions about your culture, systems, and readiness for growth. The work isn’t over after a hire; it’s just begun. Tend to your organization now, so that when the right person comes, they don’t just survive—they thrive!