Managing Special Talents

Abstract

In this chapter the need for talent management is outlined within Special Forces of a small state. The constantly changing environment, conflict context, and technology development raise the requirements of Special Operations Forces personnel, especially since they are expected to embody top-of-the-line competencies in a broad range of areas, without exceeding the limited economic resources within the small state context. One accepted SOF truth is that training is a highly prioritized activity with the purpose to maintain and learn new skills. The chapter reviews how SWESOF talent management has evolved since the unit’s formation in the mid-1990s until the present day and what challenges will possibly arise in the future.