Tuesday, June 8, 2010

"What is competency?”

Definition of a "Competency"

A competency is an underlying characteristic of an individual that is causally related to criterion-referenced effective and/or superior performance in a job or situation.

Underlying characteristics means the competency is a fairly deep and enduring part of a person's personality and can predict behavior in a wide variety of situations and job tasks.

Causally related means that a competency causes or predicts behavior and performance.

Criterion-referenced means that the competency actually predicts who does something well or poorly, as measured on specific criterion or standard.

There are five elements of competency.

  1. Motives-The things a person consistently thinks about or wants and that which causes action. Motives "drive, direct, or select" behavior towards certain actions or goals and away from others.
  2. Traits-Physical characteristics and consistent responses to situations or information.
  3. Self-Concept- A person's attitudes, values, or self-image.
  4. Skill-The ability to perform a certain physical or mental task.  
  5. Knowledge-Information a person has in specific content area.

Types of Competencies in General

  1. Individual competencies - your personal attributes: Flexibility, decisiveness, tenacity, independence, risk taking, personal integrity
  2. Managerial competencies - taking charge of other people: Leadership, empowerment, strategic planning, corporate sensitivity, project management, management control
  3. Analytical competencies - the elements of decision making: Innovation, analytical skills, numerical problem solving, problem solving, practical learning, detail consciousness
  4. Interpersonal competencies - dealing with other people: Communication, impact, persuasiveness, personal awareness, teamwork, openness
  5. Motivational competencies - the things that drive you: Resilience, energy, motivation, achievement orientation, initiative, and quality focus

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