There are constant references to “the new normal” in the popular press – and HR is no exception.  However, at what point does this phrase move beyond a cliché and become “that’s just the way things are” (in other words, just plain old normal)? In my mind that occurs when we as an HR community challenge traditional talent management processes – like leadership development, coaching, performance management and compensation – in response to new circumstances, new research, new methods, and new perspectives. In this month’s issue of Talent Management Excellence Essentials magazine, many of our contributing authors throw down just such a challenge by encouraging readers to embrace, confront, and adapt to this new normal – in all its messiness.