Communication

Behavioral Indicators

This model for differentiating academic MSO level positions for selection is all inclusive, meaning that each level builds upon the previous level and reflects increased complexity and a broader organizational view. The threshold level represents minimum competency levels required for MSO I positions.

Threshold Level

  • Uses communication for positive purpose.
  • Communicates effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives.
  • Listens carefully and asks questions to hear and understand viewpoints of others.
  • Encourages feedback and open discussion.
  • Provides others with updated information about status, progress, responsibilities of work.
  • Seeks out perspectives that are different from one's own.

Operational Level

Contains the threshold level plus:

  • Understands and uses the organization's channels of communication.
  • Establishes communication processes to keep others informed and to seek input.
  • Communicates effectively with people at all levels of the organization.
  • Expresses ideas and viewpoints in a way that positively influences dialogue and moves an issue further along.
  • Gives feedback that is constructive, objective and designed to improve performance.
  • Receives feedback and tries to integrate it into improving performance and processes.
  • Writes clearly and concisely.
  • Distills ideas and relevant data into messages that clarify and inspire support and action from others.

Mastery Level

Contains the operational and threshold levels plus:

  • Communicates with appropriate disclosure with different audiences.
  • Builds and models an environment of open communication where people are free to communicate without fear of rejection or reprisal.
  • Creates integrated processes for communicating across organizational lines.
  • Actively seeks perspectives from different parts of the organization to ensure realistic view of situations.
  • Facilitates resolution of conflict by addressing it openly and encouraging mutually beneficial resolutions.
  • Models communication that invites participation and future dialogue.