One of the best job competency tips is to always consider how one's knowledge, abilities, skills and personal qualities fit in with the position. In some cases, employees are expected to follow a certain competency protocol set by a professional organization or the company itself, while in other cases a performance review process prepared by each department head sets the tone. Some companies will pay for job training or continuing education for their employees, and it's a good tip to check with the human resources department or one's supervisor to see whether that is a particular firm's policy. An important tip to remember for job competency is that as soon as an employee experiences trouble handling his or her duties, he or she should find a solution.
If even one employee can't properly handle his or her job duties, it may throw off the production or work flow of colleagues or even other departments. Before the issue becomes noticeable by way of anyone complaining, the worker having a problem should take action immediately. In some cases, the solution may be easily found and self-corrected. Sometimes asking a co-worker who has been at the company longer can solve the problem. If this doesn't help, the employee should discuss the issue with his or her manager before someone else in the company does.
When new tasks or equipment become part of a business' environment, many companies may pay for courses that relate to the changes. If a corporate trainer who comes into the company isn't enough, a firm may encourage employees to complete courses. Not only can training or academic courses increase job competency, they are also great for listing on an employment resume. Taking extra courses while also working can make a job applicant seem self-motivated and appealing to employers if it ever becomes necessary for an employee to change jobs.
After a performance review by a supervisor or manager, it's often easy to forget what exactly was said about needing improvement. If the employee keeps a record of what to improve before the next review and sets achievement dates for each goal, the improvements are more likely to be made. Taking the initiative to turn criticism into a better performance can be a good way to impress management while increasing job competency. Oftentimes, the improvements in competency can be best made by considering how to increase one's skills or knowledge in a particular area in order to maximize ability.