Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Competencies in the context of recruitment and selection are best defined as characteristics and skills for effective or superior job performance. This definition encompasses a broad range of attributes, including both technical skills and soft skills, which contribute to an individual's ability to perform successfully in a given role.

When organizations seek to evaluate candidates for a position, they look for competencies that align with the demands of the job. These may include problem-solving abilities, communication skills, teamwork, and adaptability, all of which are essential for not just meeting job expectations but excelling in them.

Competencies go beyond the baseline knowledge or attitudes that might be considered minimally acceptable, as they focus on the higher-level skills and attributes that distinguish top performers from average ones. They help organizations to select candidates who not only can do the job but can also contribute to overall organizational effectiveness and success by driving innovation, improving processes, and enhancing team dynamics.