A competency is a person’s ability to apply their knowledge, know-how and interpersonal skills to their work.
What Are Some Examples of Competencies Employers Look For?
The competencies sought by employers vary according to job type and field of activity.
The competencies most in demand on the job market include:
- Adaptability
- Communication skills
- Teamwork
- Problem solving
- Creativity and innovation
- Critical thinking
- Autonomy
- Organizational skills
- Leadership
What Is a Competency Model?
A competency model is a framework that defines and identifies the competencies (skills, knowledge and behaviors) required to perform a function within a company.
A competency model can be used as a guide in certain human resources management processes, such as recruitment, employee skills development and workforce planning.
What Should a Competency Model Contain?
A competency model typically contains the following information:
- The types of skills required for a position and their description
- The level of skill mastery required
- The company’s organizational values
The competency model varies from position to position, and must be complete and concise.
What Are the Different Competency Models?
The various competency models include:
- The professional competency model: job-specific skills and competencies
- The leadership competency model: competencies specific to leadership
- The functional or technical competency model: know-how specific to a position or department within a company
Why Make a Competency Model?
Building a competency model for every position in a company eases a variety of HR processes such as recruitment and talent management.
A competency model also enables managers to better measure employee performance and standardize annual performance reviews, making them fairer and more equitable. It also makes it possible to better structure employee skills development and to support them in their career development.
The competency model simplifies workforce management, succession planning and internal mobility.
How to Measure Employee Competencies?
To measure employee competencies, managers can:
- Use department-specific performance indicators
- Set objectives to be achieved
- Conduct 360-degree evaluations
- Conduct regular performance reviews
- Establish a mentoring program
- Offer self-evaluations to staff
How to Manage Competencies?
Competency management involves measuring, defining and developing the skills of an organization’s employees.
To manage talent effectively and appropriately, managers must first create a competency model for each of the company’s positions. Next, they need to take stock of the situation, to identify gaps that need to be filled and talents that could be better exploited.
Finally, managers need to put in place an action plan to better mobilize employee skills and offer additional training to those who need it.
