A Theoretical Review on the Competency Model

This article reviews competency and the competency model. The competency model is a detailed, specific description of knowledge, skills, traits, and characteristics that managers should possess to be effective in job performance in their organization. The competency model is welcomed in area of organizational studies because it reduces complexity, adds capacity, and increases overall capability in understanding management issues. Empirical studies about management competencies in both business and social work fields will be presented and compared to determine whether any distinctive competencies need to be considered in social work organizations. According to the review with 80 competencies identified in 22 competency models, the managers in social word field should possess distinct competencies from those in for-profit organizations though there are common competencies for both fields such as communication, and planning. Securing and managing funds, advocacy and contemporary issues, and public and/or community relations are important issues for managers in human service organizations than those in for-profit organizations. In addition, the comparison shows that social work managers and/or experts have missed crucial competencies-visions and client focus-indispensable for leading the organizations.