Perspectives from Other Credentialing Stakeholders

The one reflection that comes to mind here is whether competencies act as a straight-jacket for innovation. It all depends on how they are designed. Competencies don't have to just define the skills and knowledge, they can also point towards the personal attributes that lie behind them. Here's a selection of competencies from the link below: http://www.opusmitchell.com/competency-examples.html Managing the Customer Relationship • Builds rapport by taking a real interest. • Takes personal responsibility for resolving customer concerns. Team Working • Treats people with respect and integrity. Influencing • Modifies position, where appropriate, to achieve a 'win-win'. Leading Others • Treats all staff as individuals, recognising and valuing diversity. • Praises achievement and says 'thank you' for a job well done. • Communicates business goals in a way which motivates staff. Planning and Control • Clarifies the responsibilities of self and others, avoiding duplication of activity and wasted effort. Bringing Innovation to Problem Solving • Encourages others to propose solutions to line management. Making Change Work • Encourages others to look at change positively. Making Good Decisions • Make responsible decisions, taking into account facts and feelings. Attention to Detail • Works within limits of authority, seeking guidance when unsure. • Keeps an eye on the detail, checking own work for mistakes. On another tack, it's interesting to review the list of personal qualities below, which were designed to encourage a climate of freedom balanced with discipline. "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." I'm sure a well-designed set of volunteer management competencies can capture the essence of knowledge, skills and personal qualities that makes for a great manager of volunteers.