Panel - An Experiential Approach to Developing Managerial Competencies

Abstract

"In 1977, the American Management Associations undertook a research project to answer the question of what individual characteristics lead to effective managerial performance. The research was based on a sample of 2,000 managers in a variety of jobs and organizations. It identified eighteen skill competencies generic to middle level management. These competencies were found to differentiate the superior from poor and/or average performers and to be causally related to effective management. The American Management Associations’ Competency Program is based on this model of competent managers. Participants begin with a one-week assessment. Their performance in the assessment process is recorded on video or audiotape and analyzed by trained coders. Six weeks later, the participants return to receive extensive feedback. Significant time is spent in sessions planning for development of the competencies. The focus of this demonstration will be how competencies may be developed using experiential techniques. A six- step competency acquisition process will be described and demonstrated. "