Understanding and Using Competencies

Competencies are essential components of personal and professional development that encompass knowledge, skills, and attributes. In today’s competitive job market, many employers prioritize competencies during the hiring process. By identifying and effectively describing your competencies, you can significantly enhance your chances of securing the opportunities you desire.

What is a Competency?

A competency comprises three fundamental elements: skills, knowledge, and attributes:

Skills: Skills refer to your proficiency in performing specific tasks or activities. They are developed through training, practice, and experience. For example, practicing writing in a specific style can help you become a skilled writer, while participating in workplace safety exercises can enhance your skills in maintaining a safe environment.
Knowledge: Knowledge encompasses theoretical understanding, factual information, and procedural know-how. It involves possessing information that can be applied in various situations. For instance, you might have knowledge about different communication styles or be well-versed in the essential steps for planning and evaluating the success of a program or project.
Attributes: Attributes are inherent characteristics or qualities that shape your thoughts, actions, and emotions. They reflect your attitudes, behaviors, and mindset. For example, being known for your positive and composed demeanor in challenging situations demonstrates the attribute of resilience. Additionally, displaying a proactive “can-do” attitude that embraces new challenges and takes initiative can be an attribute valued in the workplace.

Describing Competencies

When describing competencies, it is crucial to ensure they meet the following criteria:

Observable: Competencies should be evident and observable to others. They should be demonstrated through actions, behaviors, or outcomes.
Measurable: Competencies should be measurable, allowing for assessment and evaluation of proficiency levels. This enables employers and individuals to gauge progress and growth.
Linked to the workplace, academic environment, and other life experiences: Competencies should have relevance and applicability in various settings, such as the workplace, academic pursuits, and personal experiences.
Transferable: Competencies should have the potential to be transferred and applied across different contexts and situations. They should not be overly specific to one particular scenario.
Based on performance: Competencies should be tied to actual performance and practical application. They should reflect your ability to apply knowledge and skills effectively.

Intercultural Competencies [Link to resource]

Intercultural competencies are particularly valuable in culturally diverse environments, whether encountered during international experiences abroad or within your own country’s workplaces.

These competencies enable individuals to effectively navigate and engage with diverse cultures. By developing intercultural competencies, you enhance your understanding and appreciation of different cultural perspectives, improve communication and collaboration across cultures, and demonstrate adaptability and openness to diverse ways of thinking and doing.

Program-Specific Competencies

Program-specific competencies pertain to the knowledge, skills, and attributes that are valuable within your chosen program of study. Whether you are pursuing microbiology, mechanical engineering, music, or any other field, program-specific competencies enable you to describe your unique skills and experiences. These competencies highlight your value to potential employers, both in terms of your resume and during interviews.

To explore a comprehensive list of key competencies for students and access a variety of action verbs associated with each competency, you can refer to the following resources:

10 Core Competencies: [Link to resource]
Description of 10 Core Competencies: [Link to resource]
Action Verb List Infosheet: [Link to resource]

By actively identifying, developing, and effectively articulating your competencies, you can position yourself for success in various domains of life,

Additionally, for program-specific competencies aligned with your faculty and program area, please select your specific program or a similar one to access a relevant list of competencies that you are likely to acquire throughout your academic journey.