Behavioral Competencies Dictionary e
Behavioral Competencies Dictionary e
Behavioral Competencies Dictionary e
Brunswick
Behavioural Competency
Dictionary
HayGroup
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................II
ANALYTICAL THINKING/JUDGMENT (AT/J) ......................................................1
Introduction
Definition of Competency
A competency is any observable and/or measurable knowledge, skill, ability or
behaviour that contributes to successful performance in a given role.
There are two major components to a competency -- the definition and the
behavioural indicators. The definition explains what the competency means. This
provides a common language that everyone in the organization can understand the
same way. Each competency also has associated behavioural indicators grouped
together into “levels”. These levels, albeit not exhaustive, describe various ways of
demonstrating the competency.
Competency Profile
A job competency profile (or model) is a set of predefined “key” competencies and
proficiency levels required to perform successfully in a specific job.
• Makes concrete attempts to add value to the client by offering a better service or
an extra service beyond the client’s expectations
• Takes action beyond normal expectations
Core: Is this 1. Participates in Learning Activities and Learns from One’s Mistakes
person
interested in • Is a willing participant in planned learning activities
learning new • Learns from one’s current mistakes
things and
bettering 2. Reflects on Performance
oneself?
• Demonstrates enthusiasm and motivation to learn
• Is committed to continuous learning and self-improvement
• Reflects, analyzes and learns from self and other’s past performance, both
successes and mistakes
5. Develops Systems
• Develops and uses systems to organize and keep track of information, e.g.
working logs, assigning a person to monitor
• Puts new, detailed systems in place to increase order and improve quality of
data, e.g. a new computerized procedure, new work paths
Core: Can the 1. Communicates Well and Pays Attention to the Communication of Others
person
• Is open to others ideas: pays attention to the communication of others (individuals
communicate
or groups)
effectively, openly
and respectfully • Actively listens to people and asks probing questions to gain a broader
with others? understanding of the issue or question at hand
• Listens attentively to others and encourages others to express their own views
Flexibility (FLX)
Flexibility is the ability to adapt to and work effectively within a variety of situations,
and with various individuals or groups. Flexibility entails being understanding, tolerant
and accommodating to others, as well as appreciating diversity in others’ styles and
behaviours. It consists of being open minded to change or to different and opposing
perspectives on an issue, adapting one’s approach as the requirements of a situation
evolve, and easily accepting changes in one’s own organization or job requirements.
Progression: Size of change being made.
3. Adapts Tactics
• Decides what to do or how to do something based on the situation, as
appropriate
• While maintaining the same overall plan or strategy, changes how to accomplish
the plan
• Acts to fit the situation or the person involved
4. Adapts Strategy
• Changes the overall plan, goal, or project (i.e., what you’re trying to accomplish)
to fit the situation
• Makes organizational changes to meet the needs of a specific situation
• Offers a totally different approach or proposes a new direction for current or
future projects
2. Investigates
• Investigates the problem or situation beyond routine questioning
• Finds those closest to the problem and investigates further, such as asking,
“What happened?” (may include personally going to look at the problem when
normally would not do so)
3. Digs Deeper
• Actively asks a series of probing questions to get at the root of a situation or a
problem, or a potential opportunity below the surface
• Calls on others who are not personally involved, to get their perspective,
background information, experience, etc.
• Does not stop with the first answer; finds out why something happened and may
ask a series of specific, detailed questions that are not routine
4. Does Research
• Makes a systematic effort over a limited period of time to obtain needed data or
feedback
• Conducts in-depth investigation from unusual sources
• Does formal research, or may commission others to do formal research through
newspapers, magazines, computer search systems, or other resources (may
include market, financial, competitor research)
Initiative (INT)
Initiative refers to the identification of a problem, obstacle or opportunity and depicts a
strong bias for taking action in light of this identification to address current or future
problems or opportunities. Being a self-starter, an autonomous and pro-active
individual, and demonstrating a “can-do” approach to work are evidence of this
competency in action.
Progression: The distance into the future that one is looking for problems and
opportunities on which to take action. The scale also progress based on the
scope of impact of the action.
Integrity (ING)
Integrity is about acting in a way that is consistent with what one says (he or she
“walks the talk”); that is, one’s behaviour is consistent with one’s values (values may
come from the organization, society, code of conduct, or personal moral codes). It
includes behaving openly, fairly and impartially, honouring one’s commitment and
words, and working to uphold the organization’s integrity and values.
Note: While supporting the Public Service values, this competency goes beyond
aligning one’s behaviours and is meant for roles and positions where ethical
challenges are frequent occurrences.
Progression: Amount of risk involved in “walking the talk”.
Core: Does the 1. Acts Ethically in the Workplace, According to Values of Integrity, Respect
person act with Impartiality, Service and Competence
integrity, in line
• Is open in his or her dealings with others
with beliefs and
values even when • Acts in ways to avoid conflict of interest, perceived or otherwise - discloses
it is difficult to do potential issues
so? • Honestly expresses what he or she is thinking and feeling
• Works diligently to fulfil his or her official duties and upholds the letter and spirit of
the law
• Is discrete when dealing with personal information entrusted to him or her,
respecting appropriate policies and procedures
• Behaves in a non-partisan and impartial manner
• Brings up odd or irregular requests or demands when not sure about the
appropriate course of action
Self-Confidence (SCF)
Self-Confidence is about depicting a belief in one’s own capability to accomplish a
task and select an effective approach to a task or problem. This includes confidence in
one’s ability as expressed in increasingly challenging circumstances and confidence in
one’s decisions or opinions.
Progression: Degree of challenge taken on in a situation.
Core: Does the 1. Addresses Without Hesitation all Typical and Routine Problems that Occur
person truly trust in Current Role
in his or her
abilities and take • Works without needing direct supervision, as appropriate
on risky • Is confident in addressing routine problems and issues
tasks/challenges? • Presents self with assurance
• Works to the best of his or her abilities and skills, with dedication
• Fosters proactive thinking across the organization, and with partners and
governments, to address anticipated issues
• Recognizes opportunities and risks associated with different long term
organizational and inter-organizational approaches and issues
• Acts to build team spirit for purposes of promoting the effectiveness of the group
or process
• Holds self and others accountable for their promises and actions
3. Solicits Inputs
• Genuinely values others’ input and expertise. Wants all members of a group to
contribute to a process
• Displays willingness to learn from others, including subordinates and peers
• Solicits ideas and opinions to help form specific decisions or plans
4. Encourages Others
• Encourages others to work to the best of their abilities, with pride, skill and
dedication
• Publicly credits others who have performed well
• Encourages and empowers others, making them feel strong and important