Developed as the result of an extensive research project undertaken in 2011, the SHRM Competency Model identifies behavioral and technical competencies that HR professionals need to succeed in the field.Â
According to SHRM, a behavioral competency represents how a professional applies the HR knowledge he or she has mastered. SHRM has identified three clusters of behavioral competencies essential to the HR profession:
Leadership
These skills include people management, adherence to ethical standards, and maintaining a clear vision for the HR department’s role within a company.Interpersonal
HR professionals must cultivate positive working relationships both inside and outside their company, and should be able to communicate clearly and effectively. Interpersonal competency also includes a grasp of intercultural communication skills and a willingness to promote workplace diversity.Business
The business competency requires HR professionals to develop a working knowledge of business, including operations, consultation within their organization, and the skills to conduct qualitative and quantitative research as needed.