Did you print the Competency Library Worksheet? If not, do it now so you can fill it out and write down any questions you have along the way.
Begin with one position in your company. It can be any position you choose, but I recommend selecting a role that currently has a large amount of turnover associated with it. Alternatively you can select a job that has been challenging to fill, or that provides a critical function within your company.
Read through the entire list of competencies in the worksheet. Place a check mark by any competency that meets the WTGO criteria “Without This, Game Over!” Your objective is to shortlist all the core competencies that are essential for the position.
Review your short list. Initially it is common for this list to be a bit long. Your goal in the step is to evaluate each competency with a critical eye and trim the fat. Throw out any competency that you classify as “nice to have” and focus solely on the ones that meet WTGO criteria.
There are no hard and fast rules as to the number of competencies that you should ultimately end up with. Here is some general guidance. Hourly, associate, and individual contributor positions usually have somewhere between 3 to 6 competencies. Management, leadership and executive positions often require between 6 to 10.
Once you have compiled your final list of core competencies for a position, it’s time to put them to use. Here are just a few ways that job competencies can help streamline your hiring process while eliminating guesswork and confusion.
- Create laser-focused job ads that are competency based.
- Drive your interview process.
- Provide a blueprint for reference checking.
- Create a framework for employee training.
- Organize performance appraisals.
- Identify internal candidates for promotion.
- Structure a succession plan.