Understanding The Impact Of Talent Management On Lecturer Performance: The Role Of Soft Skill Competence And Innovation Within The Framework Of Goal Setting Theory

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of Talent Management on Lecturer Performance, with a particular focus on the mediating role of Soft Skill Competency and Innovation Ability, using the framework of Goal Setting Theory. The study was conducted at the Sulawesi Region IX Higher Education Service Institution (LLDIKTI) in Makassar City, involving 250 lecturers from various types of higher education institutions covering 18 Universities, 18 Colleges, and 5 Institutes, with a total lecturer population of 5,043. Respondents were selected through purposive sampling techniques to ensure fair representation of each type of educational institution.

The research method incorporates quantitative analysis of survey data to measure the significant contribution of each variable to the measured constructs, namely Talent Management, Soft Skill Competency, Innovation Ability, and Lecturer Performance. The results show that although there is a positive relationship between Talent Management and Lecturer Performance, this effect is not statistically significant, either directly or indirectly through Soft Skill Competency and Innovation Ability. This finding underscores the importance of supporting Lecturer Performance through a more holistic and integrated approach in Talent Management, which includes the development of Soft Skill Competencies and Innovation Capabilities.

The novelty of this research lies in its application of Goal Setting Theory in the context of Talent Management in higher education settings, offering new insights into the dynamics between lecturer talent development and academic performance. The implications for theory include a deeper understanding of the limited influence of Talent Management on Lecturer Performance without adequate support for the development of Soft Skill Competencies and Innovation Capabilities. Managerially, this study emphasizes the importance of higher education institutions to formulate clear objectives and provide adequate resources, as well as create a culture that supports innovation and continuous professional development for lecturers.