Definition of a competency

1. Competence Work
Model For Superior Performance
Lyle M. Spencer, Jr., PhD
Signe M. Spencer

2. 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

3. Definition….. Sub 1
• Underlying characteristic means the
competency is a fairly deep and enduring part
of person’s personality and can predict
behavior in a wide variety of situations and
job tasks.

4. Five Types of Competency
Characteristics
1. Trait,
2. Motive
3. Self Concept,
Attitudes,
Values,
4. Knowledge,
5. Skill
Core Personality:
Most difficult to
develop
Surface: Most
easily developed

5. Definition….. Sub 2
• Causally related means that a competency
causes or predicts behavior and performance

6. Personal Characteristics Behavior Job Performance
“ Intent “ “ Action “ “ Outcome “
Motive
Trait
Self-Concept
Knowledge
Skill
Example: Achievment Motivation
Achievment Motivation
Goal Setting, Personal
Responsibility,Use of
Feedback
Continuous
Improvement
Calculated Risk Taking Innovation
“ Doing Better”
• Competition with
Standards of
Excellence
• Unique
Accomplishment
Quality, Productivity,
Sales, Earnings
New Products, Service,
and Processes

7. Definition….. Sub 3
• Criterion-referenced means that the
competency actually predict who does
something well or poorly, as measured on a
specific criterion or standard. Example of
criteria are the dollar volume of sales for
salespeople or the number of clients who stay
“dry” for alcohol-abuse counselors.

8. To be continued