High impact performers exhibit initiative by going above and beyond, offering bold ideas, and seeking critical tasks. They execute well by setting priorities from organizational goals, being action-oriented and decisive, and ensuring follow-through. Additionally, they build strong networks through developing relationships, sharing information, and staying plugged into knowledge. In contrast, average performers do what is required but allow barriers to inhibit extra effort, focus on accomplishing tasks rather than goals, and focus on being informed rather than sharing information.

1. HIGH IMPACT VS. AVERAGE PERFORMERS
Competency High Impact Performers Average Performers
1. Initiative  Go above and beyond
 Offer bold, value-adding ideas
 Seek critical path tasks
 Do tasks that enable one to do his/her job
better
 More likely to allow barriers to inhibit action
2. Execution  Set priorities from organizational goals
 Action-oriented & decisive
 Seek personal accountability
 Highly dependable—follow-through
 Time management
 Skilled at accomplishing the “To Do List”
3. Networking  Knowing who knows
 Develop relationships that plug into the knowledge network
 Share information
 Focus on “being in the loop”
4. Teamwork /
Collaboration
 Build trusting relationships
 Productive problem solvers
 Open & supportive
 Positive style
 Skills that enable one to be on a team, to do
one’s own part, and to work cooperatively
with others
5. Perspective  Strategic & Systems Thinker
 Ability to evaluate the relative importance of various points of view
 Understands and communicate organizational goals
 One dimensional point of view primarily with
self at the center
 Makes sure their point of view gets attention
6. Organizational
Savvy
 Navigate through politics and competing interests to get things done
 Utilize power and influence effectively
 Behaviors focused on “getting noticed”