Technical competencies refer to the knowledge, skills and experience required to perform our job. Self and relational competencies refer to a person’s ability to manage internal thoughts and feelings (self) as well as the interpersonal/social environment (relational) challenges. Self and relational competencies strongly influence a person’s ability to effectively perform the technical skills of the job. Emotional intelligence comes to life through self and relational competencies.

Technical competencies are usually assessed fairly accurately as a result of education, work experience, and references. Areas that may require on-the-job training and supervision are generally known before an applicant is hired, or early in the employees’ tenure. Technical competency deficiencies are generally easy to identify, therefore the task of establishing goals to increase technical competency is fairly straightforward.

However, performance issues related to a person’s self and relational competencies may be subtle, difficult to ascertain from a job interview, and may emerge later on after a person is hired. These issues may interfere with the person’s ability to function effectively on the job and may include: interpersonal conflict, failure to meet deadlines, failure to adhere to policies, absenteeism, excessive mistakes, and attitudes that undermine morale.

The Capabilities Awareness Profile assesses Self and Relational Competencies, thus providing a valuable tool for applications such as pre-employment screening, pre-advancement screening, supervisory goal-setting, group profiling, team-building, and clinical treatment planning.