NFI_101_Appendix_A_Definitions.pdf

NFI 101—Fundamentals to Leadership Appendix A Competency Definitions

COMPETENCY DEFINITION

Flexibility

Is open to change and new information; rapidly adapts to new information, changing conditions and strategy, or unexpected obstacles, processes, and requirements.

Resilience

Deals effectively with pressure, ambiguous and emerging conditions, and multiple tasks; remains optimistic and persistent, even under adversity or uncertainty. Recovers quickly from setbacks. Anticipates changes and learns from mistakes.

Customer Service

Anticipates and meets the needs of both internal and external customers. Delivers high quality products and services; is committed to continuous improvement.

Problem Solving

Identifies and analyzes problems; weighs relevance and accuracy of information; seeks/generates and evaluates alternative perspectives/solutions; makes timely/effective recommendations, based on potential implications of findings or conclusions.

Critically evaluates to identify the causes of problems, and chooses courses of action that balance the interests of the mission and stakeholders.

Technical Credibility

Understands and appropriately applies principles, procedures, requirements, regulations, and policies related to specialized expertise. Remains current with technology, tools, trends, and evolving practices in area of expertise.

Interpersonal Skills

Develops and maintains effective working relationships, especially in difficult situations. Engages and inspires others.

Treats others with courtesy, sensitivity, and respect. Considers and responds appropriately to the needs and feelings of different audiences/ situations/cultures. Actively solicits feedback.

Exemplifies professionalism, tact and empathy. Builds trust and commitment.

Oral Communication

Demonstrates ability to clearly and effectively articulate, present and promote varied ideas and issues (to include sensitive or

NFI 101—Fundamentals to Leadership Appendix A Competency Definitions controversial topics) before a wide range of audiences. Makes clear and convincing oral presentations. Listens effectively;

clarifies information as needed.

Written Communication

Writes to convey information in a clear, concise, organized, and convincing manner for the intended audience, using correct English grammar, punctuation and spelling. Expresses thoughts persuasively and uses effective modes to reinforce message retention.

Integrity/Honesty

Nurtures ethically-minded organizations through personal discipline, values, self-control and policies that reinforce ethical behavior. Demonstrates selflessness of action by doing the right thing regardless of personal and professional consequences.

Behaves in an honest, fair, and ethical manner without regard to pressure from other authorities. Shows consistency in words and actions. Instills trust and confidence; models high standards of ethics.

Continual Learning

Assesses and recognizes own strengths and weaknesses; pursues self-development. Uses challenges as opportunities to improve and become more effective. Pursues chances to stretch skills to further professional growth. Seeks ways to improve the capacity of others and the organization through knowledge sharing, mentoring and coaching. Shows a commitment to serve the public. Ensures that actions meet public needs.

Process Improvement Techniques

The act of implementing improvements to a product, service or process. These changes can either be incremental (over time) or breakthrough (all at once). Examples of techniques include Continuous Process Improvements (CPI), High Velocity Learning (HVL), etc.