The HR Dictionary

Behavioral Competencies

Behavioral competencies encompass knowledge, skills, attitudes, and actions that distinguish employee performance. Skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and communication are a few examples of these. Typically, a job analysis is done by an employer to determine the behavioral characteristics needed for a particular job role. This entails analyzing the job duties and responsibilities as well as speaking with personnel who hold the position now or in the past.

Examples of behavioral competencies include:

  1. Communication
  2. Networking
  3. Adaptability
  4. Learning
  5. Emotional intelligence
  6. Decision making
  7. Managing conflicts
  8. Planning and organizing

To accurately evaluate the behavioral competencies of the candidates, organizations commonly use measurable competency models. Employees are required to demonstrate a set of skills called competency models in order to successfully accomplish their tasks. A description of each ability will often be provided, outlining what it means to have that competency. After creating the competency model, the employer utilizes it to conduct behavioral competency evaluations to select the best hire from the shortlisted candidates. Many HR software offers the capability of defining a list of behavioral competencies expected for different roles within the HR software itself.