Competency-based Approach

Description of Competency-based Approach. Explanation.

Definition Competency-based Approach. Description.

A Competency-based Approach is a HRM method that focuses on the skills and talents needed to be able to perform a particular task to a certain standard. The method relies on using a series of assessment tools that identify not only the technical skills a candidate possesses, but his behavioral competencies as well. The approach can be valuable for:

• Developing performance standards.

• Career Management

• Appraising employees against these standards.

• Training and development. Identifying  needs of individual employees.

• Recruitment. Assessing the skills, abilities and characteristics needed when hiring new employees.

Steps in the Competency-based Approach. Process

1. Define organizational culture.

2. Define essential job activities and responsibilities.

3. Define technical competencies and skills required.

4. Define behavioral competencies.

5. Define competencies and behavioral indicators.

Two categories of Competencies

Competencies can be broken down into two categories:

1. Work-based Competencies. Job-specific characteristics, skills and abilities such as fluency in the Italian language or the ability to work with Microsoft Excel.

2. Behavior-based Competencies. Personal characteristics or attributes such as interpersonal skills, attitudes, motivation.

Compare with: Behavioral Observation Scales  |  Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales  |  Pre-Employment Screening  |  Self-Appraisal  |  Peer-Appraisal  |  360-Degree Feedback  |  Management by Objectives

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End of description Competency-based Approach. An explanation.