Competencies typically refer to a demonstrable set of behaviours that reflect specific skills required for a specific purpose. While some competencies appear common to a wide variety of jobs and industries, others are more unique. For example, under the umbrella of "leadership" as a competency area, we may logically have a set of sub-competencies reflecting communication skills. All readily recognize the importance of communication as an element of leadership, many of the specific associated skills may be common to a wide variety of industries and occupations. For example, effective report writing and presentations skills might be equally important to the captain of a ship, a project manager in a software development company and a human resource manager. On the other hand, some competencies may be entirely industry, or job-specific. For example, a software developer may need to be able to program using C++ and a human resource manager may need to be able to manage staff information using complex human resource information systems.

Often the skills, knowledge and ability need to be identified to either assist in performance management, career path development, or job training. At CLSWEST our Associates have significant experience assisting managers in identifying and clearly articulating workable competency models, competencies, job descriptions, career paths and the necessary skills and knowledge to support them. CLSWEST also assists companies in developing competency-based assessment tools for use within the organization once the core and job-specific competencies have been identified. Contact a CLSWEST Associate to find out more about our competency-based assessments.