Types of Competency

There are many competencies that have been identified over the years, and these
are divided into six types. Below are the basic definitions and examples of each
Competency.

Examples of the Six Types of Competencies

As mentioned, there are six types of competencies. An individual can acquire
more than just one type of competency, because all these types can be utilized
independently, or altogether. Furthermore, some competencies that belong to
one type may also be classified in another type. Below is a list of the common
examples for each type.

The Six Types of Competencies

1. Management Competency– This refers to a set of competencies that
are applicable only to supervisory and managerial positions or roles, that are
more commonly task-oriented.

Management Competencies
 Judgment– Thinks and makes decisions based on perception, experience,
wisdom, knowledge, and analysis. 

 Relationship Building– Interacts with others with respect and

cooperation, and in a way that is mutually beneficial to both parties. 

 Results Orientation– Determines the best possible means to achieve a

solution or outcome. 

 Stress Tolerance– Handles stress and difficult situations calmly and

professionally; and helps others to deal with it in the same manner. 
 Verbal Communication– Verbally expresses ideas and information to
others effectively.

2. General Competencies– This refers to general competencies specific to

an organization. It is the way the organization and its members work.

Excellent Customer Service– Meets and exceeds customers’

expectations. 

Expertise in Electronic Technology– Has a high level of proficiency

in the technology of specific electronic products. 

Superior Market Distribution Skills– Utilizes distribution channels

effectively and efficiently in order to market a product or service.

3. Functional Competency– This refers to the required competencies for

leadership roles such as that of a team leader. These competencies make an
individual effective in their position as leader of a group.

 Influence– Inspires others to bring out the best in themselves and to trust
in the leader’s ideas, decisions, and recommendations. 

 Resourcefulness– Shows creativity, takes initiative, and finds solutions. 

 Results Orientation– Focuses on results and finds ways to achieve it. 

 Commitment– Maintains enthusiasm and drive, not just in self, but also
in others.

4. Technical Competencies– This type of competency is specific to a

certain job. For example, a computer programmer must be knowledgeable
 and skilled when it comes to various programming languages such as Java,
Python, and C++.

Reporting– Communicates to others the scope of work, outcomes, and

recommendations of a given task. 

Data Analysis– Interprets data accurately and is able to come up with

methodologies, hypothesis, and recommendations to address the findings. 

Technology– Utilizes various technology tools necessary for a certain

job.

5. Cognitive and social Competency– This type refers to a person’s own

knowledge, skills, and attitudes (behavior) that contribute to effectiveness in
performance, as well as in dealings with other people.

Cognitive and social Competencies

 Problem Solving– Formulates accurate and well-informed answers and
solutions to issues and problems presented.

 Decision Making– Makes sound decisions quickly even when faced with
tough situations.

 Communication– Relays and receives a message effectively such as in

business meetings, presentations, and even in day to day communication
with other people in the workplace.

 Humor– Makes light of the situation, makes others laugh, and puts them
at ease.
 Efficiency– Gets the job done as quickly as possible, without
compromising the quality of output.

 Commitment– Shows initiative with a drive to keep moving forward;

finds opportunities in every situation.

 Social Skills

6. Business Competency– This refers to the knowledge and skills required

in a particular business or industry.

Business Competencies

 Customer Service– Shows attributes and abilities needed to deal with

customers satisfactorily. 

 Job Ethics– Maintains professionalism and integrity in the

organization. 
 Accountability– Takes ownership and responsibility for the tasks
assigned. 

 Communication– Sends message across effectively as well as

understands instructions and information provided.

Key Competencies
These are competencies that are considered most important and instrumental in
achieving a person’s or organization’s objectives. Key competencies vary, and
are defined not based on the personal attributes or cognitive abilities that are
considered desirable, but rather, by giving careful assessment of the needs and
prerequisites of a company or organization. To know what these are, it is
necessary to first fully understand goals and objectives of a specific company or
organization.