For professionals looking to build, assess, or refine their organization's talent, a is a crucial tool for implementing a structured competency modeling approach. What is the Spencer and Spencer Competency Dictionary?
The foundation of the Spencer and Spencer dictionary is the . This model visualises competencies in two distinct layers:
The classic Spencer and Spencer Competency Dictionary organizes human capabilities into six primary clusters. Each cluster contains specific competencies with detailed behavioral scales. 1. Achievement and Action Cluster
The desire to help or serve others, focusing efforts on discovering and meeting the customer’s or client’s needs. 3. The Impact and Influence Cluster Spencer And Spencer Competency Dictionary Pdf
The capacity to build or maintain friendly, warm relationships or networks of contacts with people who are, or might someday be, useful in achieving work-related goals. 4. The Managerial Cluster
Focuses on thinking and analysis.
Once you have access to the PDF, here’s how HR professionals and managers apply it: For professionals looking to build, assess, or refine
This cluster highlights the power to influence others, build networks, and manage organizational politics.
, provides a framework for identifying individual characteristics that predict superior job performance. It is widely used for
The intent to make others comply with one's wishes, using personal or position power appropriately. This model visualises competencies in two distinct layers:
| Method | Details | |--------|---------| | | Competence at Work (ISBN 0‑471‑54809‑X) – available new/used via Wiley, Amazon, or academic booksellers. | | University libraries | Many libraries provide ebook access or physical copies; some allow chapter PDF downloads for enrolled students. | | HR vendor adaptations | Many competency modeling platforms (e.g., Korn Ferry, SHRM, Workitect) license and adapt the Spencer & Spencer model; they may provide client‑facing PDF summaries. | | Public summaries | Websites like The Balance Careers , 12manage , or academic course pages sometimes host abbreviated tables of the dictionary (not the full copyrighted PDF). |
Are you building a competency model for a (e.g., sales, leadership, tech)?
The mastery of a body of job-related knowledge and the drive to expand and use it. 6. Personal Effectiveness Cluster