|
RCMP CORE COMPETENCIES
|
|
FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES
|
INTRODUCTION TO THE RCMP CORE COMPETENCIES
A "core competency" refers to an individual's demonstrated knowledge, skills or abilities in areas that are central to successful performance in the RCMP, regardless of rank, responsibility, position or function. The RCMP recognizes that there are certain core competencies required to ensure an individual's success as a regular member, civilian member or public service employee of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
There are eight RCMP CORE COMPETENCIES:
The RCMP CORE COMPETENCIES, as presented in this document, were developed with the input of RCMP regular members, civilian members and public service employees from across Canada, representing operational, administrative and policy centre interests. With representation from all divisions, the field, DSRRs, PSAC, and each human resource function, participants ranged in rank from Constable to Deputy Commissioner. All met the challenge of ensuring the consistency of the RCMP CORE COMPETENCIES with the strategic direction of the RCMP, as expressed in the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments to our employees and our communities (i.e., the RCMP Shared Leadership Vision).
Clearly, the RCMP CORE COMPETENCIES flow from the organization's core values, as it is these core values which provide the foundation for all endeavours undertaken by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
There are six RCMP Core Values:
As presented in this document, each of the eight RCMP CORE COMPETENCIES includes a definition followed by a list of behavioral indicators reflecting four levels of organizational responsibility:
As such, the core competency definitions appearing at the top of each page are "generic" in the sense that they apply to all positions, ranks, functions, and levels of responsibility in the organization. The behavioral indicators following each definition serve to reflect differences in the behavioral expression of each core competency, at four different levels of organizational responsibility within the RCMP.
Moreover, it is recognized that the expression of the RCMP CORE COMPETENCIES evolves as one takes on greater responsibility within the organization. This development occurs because behaviours required for effective performance change with the demands being placed on the individual. Behaviours associated with the competency at one level are generally developed or acquired before those at the next level.
It is important to note that the behavioural expressions of a competency developed at previous levels are present at successive levels. These earlier behaviours serve as "pre-requisites" or building blocks for the next level. Thus, as you read down the page (moving to successively higher levels of organizational responsibility), earlier expressions are subsumed within the broader expression of the competency. This development is crucial for one to succeed in handling the challenges of a higher level of organizational responsibility.
Attracts and mobilises energies and talents to work toward
shared objectives that are in the best interests of the organization, the people
comprising it, and the people it serves.
Encourages partnerships. Inspires others, by example, to
perform to the highest standards in accordance with the RCMP mission, vision,
values and commitments.
Sets, and/or involves others in setting, goals that are challenging,
realistic and measurable.
Actively participates with and/or empowers other individuals
and teams to accomplish goals and objectives. Assesses and manages risk.
Makes, and/or inspires others to make, innovative and responsible
decisions.
Accepts responsibility for outcomes and is accountable.
Promotes the ongoing review of policies and practices to
ensure continued consistency with the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments.
Establishes and maintains relationships and atmospheres of
trust and respect.
Recognizes contributions and successes.
Proactively seeks to improve the work environment and the
quality of service delivery.
PERFORMS JOB FUNCTION (INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR)
- exemplifies the highest standards of integrity, honesty, professionalism, compassion, respect and accountability
- supports, promotes and models the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments
- conducts self to the highest standards of excellence and seeks ways to continuously improve
- enlists willing partners from within and outside the RCMP
- recognizes the contributions and accomplishments of others
- sets challenging goals and objectives for self and strives to achieve them
- assesses risk, considers alternative strategies and takes appropriate actions
- makes innovative, informed and responsible decisions
- establishes and maintains relationships of trust and respect
- takes initiative in identifying and solving problems proactively
- continuously seeks to improve service delivery
SUPERVISES A UNIT OF WORK
- exemplifies, recognizes and promotes the highest standards of integrity, honesty, professionalism, compassion, respect and accountability
- establishes an atmosphere in which relationships of trust can develop
- builds and leads teams; equips teams and team members with necessary resources
- effectively co-ordinates and allocates resources (human, financial and material)
- contributes to, conveys, and promotes team member commitment to the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments
- inspires others to excellence by "walking the talk", leading by example, promoting, fostering and demonstrating the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments
- works with team members to set realistic individual and team performance goals
- inspires individuals and teams to assume responsibility for work and products
- provides feedback and development opportunities, creating an environment which promotes and encourages continuous learning
- recognizes the contributions and accomplishments of the team and individual employees
- takes appropriate action with employees who consistently fail to meet minimum performance standards
- fosters and promotes risk taking, ensuring a common understanding of risk taking and risk assessment approaches
- designs and develops opportunities to challenge, motivate and empower the team and individual employees
MANAGES MULTIPLE UNITS OF WORK
- develops a shared understanding among teams and builds on common purpose(s)
- facilitates a clear understanding and the appropriate application of empowerment and delegation
- facilitates the setting of integrated goals for multiple units and involves others in decision making, where appropriate
- establishes risk management and quality assurance systems
- encourages supervisors to create a collaborative and co-operative atmosphere and to break down barriers where they exist
- contributes to, conveys, and promotes unit commitment to the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments, in order to ensure the integration and alignment of initiatives with corporate direction and organizational goals
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES
- collaborates with external agencies (e.g., government departments, police departments, private agencies, etc.) in providing for the health, security and safety of Canada's citizens
- in accordance with the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments, maintains traditions and esprit de corps that foster pride and commitment to the RCMP
- facilitates organisational culture changes to ensure both a positive working environment and a professional image
- leads and conducts highly sensitive consultations, builds strategic support, partnerships and alliances, both internally and externally
- sets broad strategic goals and clear accountabilities; establishes a working environment that promotes and recognizes excellence
- ensures that the organization has a learning and development strategy to meet short and long-term organisational needs and objectives
- determines and promotes a strategic risk management framework that incorporates appropriate delegation, rewards and recognition
- shows willingness to become directly and personally involved, where appropriate
- creates and maintains an environment that fosters a high standard of ethics and facilitates acceptance of the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments by involving employees in its development and implementation
- establishes and conveys the principles of shared leadership, openness and trust to foster adaptation and change throughout the RCMP
- engages in client-driven decision making and business approaches while serving as a competent steward of the public resources with which he/she has been entrusted
- establishes, champions and exemplifies the highest corporate standards of integrity, honesty, professionalism, compassion, respect and accountability
Analyses, plans, implements, evaluates and adjusts goals,
objectives and/or courses of action to meet needs in a changing environment.
Practices responsible risk management.
Sets priorities, makes decisions and takes necessary courses
of action, based on multiple demands and available human, financial and material
resources.
Evaluates processes and outcomes to ensure continuous improvement
in service delivery.
PERFORMS JOB FUNCTION (INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR)
- sets personal objectives and goals
- organises self and manages use of time
- makes sound decisions and takes necessary action within area of responsibility
- deals effectively with multiple demands; plans and sets priorities
- provides products and/or service delivery in a timely manner; does his/her best to meet commitments
- uses available resources responsibly
- identifies problems and issues, in consultation, as appropriate
- anticipates consequences; negotiates solutions to address various concerns and feelings
- learns from mistakes; adjusts goals, objectives and/or courses of action to meet changing needs
- requests assistance or advice as required
- keeps appropriate records
SUPERVISES A UNIT OF WORK
- leads the planning process for the team/unit; translates organisational strategies into concrete action plans
- sets objectives, in consultation with employees and/or clients, as appropriate
- establishes a course of action for self and others; assigns and delegates work
- empowers employees as appropriate
- defines frameworks to guide individual and team/unit initiatives
- monitors work and provides performance feedback to employees
- allocates resources to achieve goals; manages human, financial and material resources effectively
- creates a supportive work environment
- plans for and responds to contingencies, balancing conflicting demands on individuals
- in consultation with employees and/or clients, adjusts plans as required to ensure productivity
- keeps activities and programs on track by clarifying objectives and feedback
- ensures timeliness of products/service delivery
- ensures appropriate records are kept
- maximises productivity and the efficient use of human, financial and materiel resources
MANAGES MULTIPLE UNITS OF WORK
- manages situations and activities to avoid crises
- participates in the development and implementation of strategic plans and performance agreements which link programs and services to broad policy objectives
- translates organisational strategies into co-ordinated action plans
- assembles cross-functional teams to achieve cross-unit objectives
- links the RCMP mandate, its mission, vision, values, and commitments to other departments, central agencies, and to the mandate and priorities of government
- establishes effective organisational processes and structures to achieve strategic goals
- balances conflicting demands on individuals/units in order to meet emerging trends and to achieve organisational and governmental objectives
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES
- anticipates emerging issues and engages in long-term, proactive strategic planning
- directs RCMP activities so that they do not conflict with government plans and priorities
- provides a forward-looking perspective that contributes to future policy and strategic planning decisions and sustains RCMP momentum towards accomplishing goals
- ensures all resources and technologies are employed effectively and re-deployed as necessary
- establishes and maintains effective accountability systems in support of the RCMP's strategic direction and its mission, vision, values and commitments
Adjusts behaviour to the demands of the work environment
in order to remain productive through periods of transition, ambiguity, uncertainty
and stress.
Persistently strives for excellence even in difficult situations.
Adapts behaviour to changing circumstances in order to reach
a goal or to address diverse and changing client/community needs.
Demonstrates perseverance and a willingness to perform beyond
the normal range of job expectations and requirements, when necessary.
Takes initiative and enthusiastically strives to do an outstanding
job.
PERFORMS JOB FUNCTION (INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR)
- effectively adapts behaviour to changing circumstances in order to reach a goal or to address diverse and changing client/community needs
- tolerates ambiguity and responds with new approaches to changing priorities and conditions
- acts calmly and suitably in uncertain or stressful situations
- maintains the required level and consistency of performance under pressures including, but not limited to: time constraints, conflicting demands, opposition, inadequate resources, unpleasant working conditions, and perhaps danger
- mediates workplace problems and stressful situations
- perseveres, is resilient, composed and patient
- is realistic about own limits
- handles failures and criticism constructively; learns from both mistakes and successes
- has a flexible working style; is open to and initiates change
- works well both independently and in teams; develops partnerships and relationships to maintain productivity and effectiveness
- is self confident, expresses opinions and personal views when required, but gets on side once decisions are made
- takes initiative beyond the normal range of job requirements when necessary
SUPERVISES A UNIT OF WORK
- recognizes and responds to early signs of burnout in self and others
- supports change and continuous learning; encourages adaptability and flexibility in others
- creates a risk-free environment that supports testing new ideas
- promotes the health, safety and well-being of employees
MANAGES MULTIPLE UNITS OF WORK
- models an appropriate life/work balance that is responsive to changing personal and organisational needs
- builds strategic support, partnerships and alliances
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES
- demonstrates stamina/stress resistance in the face of difficult and demanding challenges
- works effectively with a broad range of organisations, people, situations, and groups at all levels of responsibility, both internal and external to the organization
- champions and exemplifies credibility and personal effectiveness through personal integrity and demonstrated flexibility in response to demands
- ensures support systems are in place to assist others in handling and adapting to change
- anticipates changes or difficult circumstances and puts systems in place to minimize or manage their impact on individuals and the organization
Continuously identifies areas that need improvement in terms
of self and organizational development in order to enhance service delivery
and accomplish personal and organizational goals.
Develops and maintains awareness of internal and external
trends, programs and issues as they relate to service delivery and personal
and organisational goals.
Addresses learning requirements by: independently keeping
abreast of research and new directions, reading, seeking appropriate experiences,
training, course work, community involvement, and other means.
Shares information and techniques and applies them to daily
work.
PERFORMS JOB FUNCTION (INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR)
- takes responsibility for self-improvement and expands own knowledge and abilities
- keeps current with organizational developments
- develops a personal learning plan/strategy; tracks own progress
- identifies and selects appropriate resources and methods for learning
- learns from mistakes; seeks feedback on developmental needs and efforts
- shares learning with others
SUPERVISES A UNIT OF WORK
- models the principles and practices of continuous learning
- develops and shares organizational awareness and best practices with team/unit members
- puts mechanisms in place for sharing information between team/unit members
- provides regular, ongoing feedback to team/unit members concerning developmental requirements and means of addressing same
- provides developmental opportunities for team/unit members
- recognizes team/unit members' efforts and achievements
- participates in and influences RCMP processes
- encourages and contributes to organizational improvement
- facilitates and promotes individual and team learning
- coaches and mentors team/unit members
- creates a suitable environment for testing new ideas
MANAGES MULTIPLE UNITS OF WORK
- ensures developmental opportunities are available to all units and individuals
- responds to emerging needs to ensure that appropriate training and resources are applied in a proactive and optimal fashion
- develops internal/external links and networks to enhance continuous learning
- sponsors pilot initiatives for continuous learning
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES
- champions continuous learning at all levels of the organization
- builds support, partnerships and strategic alliances to enhance continuous learning
- develops and maintains strategic alliances and networks of clients, partners and interest groups, inside and outside the RCMP, to accomplish results
- establishes effective organisational processes and structures to achieve strategic goals
Presents issues and information, orally and in writing, in
a clear and credible manner.
Tailors communication to intended audience and uses appropriate
tools and strategies to convey information.
Listens to, understands and values other perspectives and
modifies approach to ensure understanding and/or achieve results.
Responds to and uses appropriate non-verbal communication.
Exercises open, honest and bilateral communication and projects
a professional image.
PERFORMS JOB FUNCTION (INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR)
- writes and/or orally conveys information and ideas effectively, understandably and at the appropriate level of detail for various and diverse internal and/or external audiences
- engages in active listening practices, verifying that communications are understood and clarifying as required
- consults with others, seeking their opinions and ensuring that their views have been taken into consideration
- demonstrates awareness of, and sensitivity to, cross-cultural and interpersonal style differences
- responds to and uses appropriate non-verbal communication
- creates an atmosphere that is conducive to effective and open communication
- organises material and information to facilitate understanding
- ensures information is conveyed in a timely manner
- briefs diverse clients, partners and stakeholders on relevant issues
- provides immediate/timely answers regarding local/unit issues, that reflect an awareness of the sensitivities and interests of diverse individuals and groups including media, senior public officials and interest groups
SUPERVISES A UNIT OF WORK
- optimises the use of communications and information technology to gather and share information
- communicates effectively with other units (representative role)
- leads consultations and negotiations with diverse individuals and groups
- provides immediate/timely answers regarding complex and/or organisational issues that reflect an awareness of the sensitivities and interests of diverse individuals and groups including media, senior public officials and interest groups
MANAGES MULTIPLE UNITS OF WORK
- presents complex issues with clarity, credibility and impact in widely varied forums
- capitalises on existing communications tools and strategies and creates new, innovative ones to ensure effective internal and external communications
- promotes organisational awareness by disseminating information to appropriate levels
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES
- represents the organization with tact and diplomacy
- fosters commitment by promoting and effectively communicating corporate messages
- articulates and promotes the corporate interests of the RCMP
- clarifies and communicates the expectations of other government departments and central agencies (e.g. Solicitor General's Office; Treasury Board).
- based on the principles of community policing and modern management, articulates and clarifies the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments -- in the spirit of shared leadership -- in response to needs, demands, and expectations of RCMP employees and communities
- supports opportunities to use technology to develop and improve communication processes
Interacts sensitively and respectfully with all individuals
and groups to develop mutual understanding and productive relationships to enhance
quality service delivery.
Demonstrates compassion.
Coaches, mentors and works effectively in teams and in partnerships.
Identifies and resolves issues through consultation, negotiation
and consensus building and/or other appropriate processes.
PERFORMS JOB FUNCTION (INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR)
- develops and maintains positive working relationships and contacts
- serves as a coach, mentor, and/or facilitator
- participates in identifying and resolving issues
- keeps an open mind in discussing and responding to differing points of view
- acknowledges, understands and respects that others may have different values and beliefs when dealing with diverse individuals and issues
- contributes to a positive work environment by using courtesy, tact and diplomacy, and by demonstrating interest in others
- contributes to a harassment-free work environment
- anticipates and takes steps to minimize or prevent conflicts
- serves as a role-model within own circle of influence; gains esteem and respect for the organisation from people of differing backgrounds and viewpoints
SUPERVISES A UNIT OF WORK
- establishes and maintains a harassment-free work environment
- builds internal, inter-agency and inter-disciplinary teams, demonstrating sensitivity and respect for diversity
- establishes and maintains an environment conducive to the identification of problems, diverse points of view, open problem-solving discussions, and consensus building
- manages a diverse workforce with sensitivity and respect
- develops and maintains positive working relationships with team/unit members, even in highly stressful situations
- seeks ways to appropriately resolve conflicts between and among individuals
MANAGES MULTIPLE UNITS OF WORK
- promotes co-operation, co-ordination and consistency in approach, purpose and direction between and within teams
- minimises and manages stress in the work environment
- makes tough interpersonal/organizational decisions with sensitivity, care and diplomacy
- seeks ways to appropriately resolve conflicts between and within units and teams
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES
- adapts interpersonal style to build relationships with diverse clients, citizens, and communities, senior executives in other organisations, elected officials, and employees at all levels of the RCMP
- recognizes inter-dependencies between internal and external groups; seeks common ground and develops meaningful long-term relationships and strategic alliances
- champions and models corporate values to all employees of the RCMP and external contacts
- handles delicate negotiations skillfully in order to advance the RCMP's objective of providing for the health, security and safety of Canada's citizens
Works with others to identify needs and conceptualise issues
in diverse, dynamic or complex circumstances, giving consideration to client/community,
organization, and employee interests.
Acquires and analyses appropriate information and considers
alternative strategies to achieve objectives.
Assesses risk, develops innovative solutions, and evaluates
potential outcomes of various actions before making decisions.
Establishes priorities, makes decisions and takes actions
that are consistent with the RCMP Mission, Vision, Values and commitments.
Assesses outcomes in consultation with client/community.
Applies sound, ethical reasoning in all situations.
PERFORMS JOB FUNCTION (INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR)
- applies the principles and processes of the CAPRA problem solving model (Clients - direct/indirect; Acquiring & Analyzing information; Partnerships; Response; Assessment)
- works with diverse clients and partners (internal and/or external) to identify needs and develop shared priorities and practical solutions
- extracts information from a variety of sources to assist in problem identification and solving
- identifies patterns, trends, barriers, and their underlying root causes to anticipate problems and generate creative solutions
- evaluates risk and develops risk management strategies
- quickly and simultaneously assesses the implications and effects of various strategies before taking action
- identifies core issues and responds to them appropriately
SUPERVISES A UNIT OF WORK
- keeps track of multiple problems and developments ranging from day to day activities to broader issues
- switches from one type of problem to another with ease, distinguishing between essential and non-essential details
- makes decisions in consideration of unit needs, priorities, and resources
- works with employees to solve problems, giving assistance and guidance as necessary
- practices risk management
- co-ordinates, integrates and appropriately disseminates information gathered from others
MANAGES MULTIPLE UNITS OF WORK
- brings together large amounts of information and creates a coherent picture to integrate new information and identify implications for policy
- integrates activities of various units to ensure efforts are consistent with organisational initiatives and strategic directions
- identifies contradictions between policies and practice within own areas of responsibility, and seeks ways to align them with each other and with the corporate strategy
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES
- groups the meaning of trends and relationships between the organization and its environment, and makes accurate prognoses of expected developments
- adds meaning to complex events and patterns of information by reducing them to fundamental concepts and basic objectives
- balances and synthesises conflicting demands on the RCMP's resources, priorities, policies and practices
- identifies threats to the organization, evaluates their potential impact on the RCMP's ability to deliver service and develops innovative solutions
- conceives models to guide the development of practical long-term directions for policies, programs and services
- extracts -- from diverse sources of information -- vital principles that serve to enrich understanding and provide a focus for the organisation's activities
- ensures that initiatives, within various areas of accountability in the organization, are in alignment
- identifies and reconciles actual or potential contradictions in organisational policy, priorities, practices with the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments
Identifies clients and their needs.
Establishes and maintains partnerships.
Provides clients with opportunities for active participation
and consultation on decisions that are relevant to their needs and concerns,
while balancing competing interests.
Accepts responsibility for quality service delivery.
Seeks innovative approaches for improvement based on client
feedback.
Responds to client/community needs in a manner consistent
with the RCMP Mission, Vision, Values and Commitments, RCMP Service Standards,
and the philosophy of community policing
PERFORMS JOB FUNCTION (INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR)
- responds to client and community needs in a manner consistent with the RCMP mission, vision, values and commitments, its service standards, and the philosophy of community policing
- identifies and understands the needs and expectations of direct and indirect clients in general, and with respect to specific cases, issues and problems
- balances competing interests for time and attention; provides products and/or service delivery in a timely manner
- serves as a coach, mentor, facilitator, both internally and externally, as needs demand
- establishes and maintains partnerships, both within and outside the RCMP
- solicits client-feedback on service delivery; acts upon constructive feedback regarding personal and organisational effectiveness
- proactively interacts with clients to gather information that will assist in identifying actual and potential problems, issues and concerns, and to maintain an optimum level of client-service
SUPERVISES A UNIT OF WORK
- balances multiple and competing interests for time, resources and attention
- solicits and incorporates feedback on service delivery provided by the team/unit members in order to ensure that service delivery objectives are met
- establishes performance measures for quality, time, and cost of service(s) provided by the team/unit
- recognizes excellence in those providing client-service
- manages and co-ordinates public consultations, both at the individual and unit levels
- develops and manages additional community resources and enhances service delivery by encouraging community involvement
MANAGES MULTIPLE UNITS OF WORK
- designs and implements client-feedback systems on the service delivery of various work units
- ensures client-feedback is incorporated in order to continuously improve service delivery
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES
- reviews and enhances the RCMP service delivery model at all levels, both nationally and internationally
- establishes strategic partnerships with government and non-government agencies at municipal, provincial, federal, national and international levels
- establishes organization-wide accountability structures
- establishes advisory and public consultation strategies and processes
- establishes RCMP policies, priorities and strategies and ensures that they serve to support and facilitate client-centred service
- champions the principles and practice of client-centred service
Produced by: Human Resources Directorate
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
For additional information, please contact:
Dr. Darlene Worth, Research Branch
(613) 993-1499
or
Mr. Paul Davis, Learning and Development Branch
(613) 990-7294
© GRC-RCMP 1998