Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the debate on whether talent is primarily acquired through selection or can be cultivated through training, emphasizing the importance of both aspects in talent development [1][14]. Definition of Talent - Talent can be defined as individuals who are capable of performing specific job roles within an organization, possessing certain "competency characteristics" [2]. - The "onion model" is introduced as a framework for understanding these competency characteristics, which include traits, motivations, self-concept, attitudes, values, knowledge, and skills [2][3]. Onion Model Structure - The onion model consists of three layers: - The core layer includes "traits and motivations," which are innate and stable psychological characteristics [3]. - The middle layer encompasses "self-concept, attitudes, and values," which influence behavior and performance [3]. - The outer layer consists of "knowledge and skills," which are observable and can be acquired through training [3][4]. Selection vs. Cultivation - The article argues that the core competencies of talent lie in the inner and middle layers of the onion model, which are difficult to cultivate after birth, suggesting that organizations should focus on selecting individuals with these deep characteristics [4][5]. - However, it also highlights the logical flaw in separating deep and surface characteristics, as many individuals with strong deep characteristics may still fail to perform effectively in their roles [5][6]. Reliability and Validity - The concepts of "reliability" and "validity" are discussed as essential for understanding talent effectiveness, where reliability refers to the alignment of deep characteristics with job requirements, and validity pertains to the ability to translate these characteristics into actual performance [7][9]. Importance of Skills - The article emphasizes that deep characteristics alone are not sufficient for success; individuals must also possess relevant skills and knowledge to perform effectively [9][11]. - Examples from sales roles illustrate that while deep characteristics are crucial, they must be complemented by skills that can only be developed through training [10][11]. Performance Management System - A comprehensive performance management system is necessary to support talent cultivation, which includes elements such as empowerment, guidance, support, assurance, and fair evaluation [12][13]. - This system ensures that both deep and surface characteristics are effectively utilized to achieve high performance [12][13]. Conclusion - The article concludes that talent development requires a combination of both selection and cultivation, as they are complementary processes that together form a complete talent growth system [14][15].