Competence (human resources)

Competence is the set of demonstrable characteristics and skills that enable, and improve the efficiency of, performance of a job. The term 'competence' first appeared in an article authored by R.W. White in 1959 as a concept for performance motivation. In 1970, Craig C. Lundberg defined the concept in 'Planning the Executive Development Program'. The term gained traction when in 1973, David McClelland wrote a seminal paper entitled, 'Testing for Competence Rather Than for Intelligence'. It has since been popularized by Richard Boyatzis and many others, such as T.F. Gilbert (1978) who used the concept in relationship to performance improvement. Its use varies widely, which leads to considerable misunderstanding. Competence is the set of demonstrable characteristics and skills that enable, and improve the efficiency of, performance of a job. The term 'competence' first appeared in an article authored by R.W. White in 1959 as a concept for performance motivation. In 1970, Craig C. Lundberg defined the concept in 'Planning the Executive Development Program'. The term gained traction when in 1973, David McClelland wrote a seminal paper entitled, 'Testing for Competence Rather Than for Intelligence'. It has since been popularized by Richard Boyatzis and many others, such as T.F. Gilbert (1978) who used the concept in relationship to performance improvement. Its use varies widely, which leads to considerable misunderstanding. Some scholars see 'competence' as a combination of practical and theoretical knowledge, cognitive skills, behavior and values used to improve performance; or as the state or quality of being adequately or well qualified, having the ability to perform a specific role. For instance, management competency might include systems thinking and emotional intelligence, and skills in influence and negotiation.