Competencies at Work

CHAPTER 4

Universal Competencies: The Big Six (Plus One)

In this chapter, we will expand on our previous reference to a set of competencies shared across a wide range of roles and organizations. Research shows that six competencies consistently rise to the top of any competency model.¹ These six competencies can truly help differentiate high performers and can also provide a foundation for understanding universal job requirements. Using these competencies as a framework to judge and develop talent can be a powerful tool in ensuring that the best employees populate your organization. We will thoroughly explore each of these competencies and offer ideas for identifying and developing them. We will close with a reference to a seventh competency ...