SMS Competency - Communication

This is one of eleven competences that appear in the SMS Competency Framework for senior managers in South Africa's Public Service. All these competences are viewed as being critical for high performance in the senior manager’s role. The eleven competences are:

1. Strategic Capability and Leadership;
2. Programme and Project Management;
3. Financial Management;
4. Change Management;
5. Knowledge Management;
6. Service Delivery Innovation;
7. Problem Solving and Analysis;
8. People Management and Empowerment;
9. Client Orientation and Customer Focus;
10. Communication;
11. Honesty and Integrity;

Competency definition

Must be able to exchange information and ideas in a clear and concise manner appropriate for the audience in order to explain, persuade, convince and influence others to achieve the desired outcomes

Proficiency level

Basic

• Shows understanding for communication tools appropriate for the audience but needs assistance in utilising them;
• Expresses ideas in a clear and coherent manner but not always taking into account the needs of the audience; and
• Assimilates information reasonably well.

Competent

• Expresses ideas to individuals and groups both in formal and informal settings in aninteresting and motivating way;
• Receptive to alternative viewpoints;
• Adapts communication content and style according to the audience including managing body language effectively;
• Delivers messages in a manner that gains support, commitment and agreement;
• Compiles documents on complex matters that are clear, concise and well structured;
• Communicates controversial sensitive messages to stakeholders tactfully;
• Listens well and is receptive; and
• Encourages participation and mutual understanding.

Advanced

• Communicates high risk sensitive matters to all relevant stakeholders;
• Develops well defined communication strategy;
• Balances political views with organisational needs when communicating differing viewpoints on complex issues;
• Steers negotiations around complex issues and arrive at a win/win situation;
• Markets and promotes the organisation to external stakeholders; and
• Communicates with the media without compromising the integrity of the organisation.

Expert

• Consulted as an expert in communication both externally and internally;
• Is sought after to lead negotiations and represent the organisation;
• Inspires people with use of language;
• Creates an environment that is conducive to productive communication; and
• Coordinates negotiations at different levels within the organisation and externally.

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Copyright RSA Department of Public Service and Administration: SMS Handbook - Chapter 5: Competency Framework (2003).

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External Links

Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), Republic of South Africa