Succession planning primarily involves which of the following activities?

Succession planning is a strategic approach that organizations use to ensure they have a robust pipeline of talent ready to step into key roles as they become available. The primary activity involved in succession planning is the identification, development, and tracking of employees who are potential candidates for higher positions within the company.

This process involves assessing current employees' skills, competencies, and readiness for promotion, as well as providing them with the necessary training and development opportunities to prepare them for future leadership roles. By focusing on internal candidates, organizations can maintain continuity, reduce turnover costs, and enhance employee engagement, as staff members see clear paths for advancement.

In this context, while hiring external candidates, conducting exit interviews, and creating job descriptions are important HR activities, they do not encapsulate the core aim of succession planning, which is about strategically preparing internal talent for future leadership needs.