Change is no longer an event, or even a season—it’s a constant. Whether it’s economic shifts, AI disruption, evolving employee expectations, or new leadership models, today’s workplace demands something more than technical competence. It demands Adaptability Intelligence.
The ability to adjust quickly, stay grounded amid uncertainty, and lead through disruption has become the hallmark of resilient organizations and high-performing individuals. And yet, many companies are still underinvesting in this critical skill set.
A recent McKinsey report found that only 16% of global employers currently invest in Adaptability and continuous learning, while 26% of employees rank it among their top developmental needs. Even more concerning—only 23% of employees report feeling well-equipped to be adaptable in the face of change. However, “to successfully move their business strategies forward in this environment, 21st-century leaders need an engaged and innovative workforce that can change course quickly, effectively, and fluidly.”
📖 Source: McKinsey: Developing a Resilient, Adaptable Workforce
The gaps in preparedness and investment create real risk—and a meaningful opportunity.
Why Assess Adaptability Intelligence? Because You Can’t Improve What You Don’t Measure.
Adaptability may feel intangible, but it can be measured. And once it’s measured, it can be developed.
When used correctly, assessments like the AQme Adaptability assessment, provide a powerful lens into how people respond to change, by providing insights into how they learn new skills, regulate emotions, and navigate uncertainty, and what resources support the best environments for successful outcomes. Whether you’re working with individuals or teams, this data can guide practical action while offering a neutral and precise vocabulary for discussing improvement without stress or ego.
The team at MIT Sloan puts it clearly: “Building organizational agility into your business structures allows your company to keep pace with its industry, seize opportunities, and avoid functional roadblocks that can stop slower-moving competitors.”
📖 Source: MIT Sloan: Why Adaptability Is More Important Than Ever
And in their 2025 outlook, the Training Industry identified Adaptability and agility as core skills for future-ready organizations. Their findings stress that Adaptability is not just a mindset—it’s a measurable competency that must be intentionally developed and is beneficial for talent retention. “Employees who feel equipped to navigate both immediate challenges and long-term changes are more likely to stay engaged and apply their skills across roles.”
📖 Source: Training Industry: Why Adaptability and Agility Define Success
Even outside of the corporate arena, educational leaders like the University of South Florida are reinforcing this message. Their research highlights how lifelong learning and targeted training promote Adaptability, leading to better career growth and job fit. “In short, it means you are ready for just about anything.”
📖 Source: USF: Lifelong Learning Promotes Adaptability
Turn Insight into Action
At Competitive Edge, we’ve spent decades helping organizations use behavioral and motivator assessments to build stronger, more connected teams. And now, we’re equipping professionals with the tools to address one of the most urgent skill needs in today’s workplace: Adaptability.
Our Adaptability Certification Training is designed to give you hands-on experience interpreting and applying the AQme Adaptability Quotient (AQ) assessment. This includes learning how to assess 15 subdimensions of Adaptability Intelligence—including Grit. Resilience, Mindset and factors such as emotional range and capacity for unlearning—so you can help individuals and teams navigate change with clarity and confidence.
Whether you’re in HR, talent development, coaching, or organizational consulting, this certification provides the tools to turn assessment data into meaningful conversations and measurable outcomes.
Become Certified in Adaptability Intelligence Today
Let’s move beyond generic advice and take a data-driven approach to thriving through change.
👉 Join our next Adaptability Certification Training
Learn to assess and develop Adaptability using one of the most advanced tools available—so you can help others not just survive, but thrive.
Because in today’s world, Adaptability isn’t optional. It’s essential.