Questionnaire Items Measuring Performance
Definition: Performance is the consistent ability to deliver high‑quality results by applying strong discipline, motivation, and work ethic while upholding clear standards, realistic goals, and structured methods that guide day‑to‑day execution. It reflects a manager's capacity to anticipate needs, manage time effectively, adapt quickly to changing conditions, and overcome obstacles through resourcefulness, resilience, and sound decision‑making that keeps work moving forward. High performers communicate expectations clearly, delegate and adjust responsibilities intelligently, and maintain a calm, positive, solutions‑focused presence that strengthens accountability, builds momentum, and enables the team to operate at its best. Ultimately, Performance is demonstrated through steady follow‑through, continuous improvement, and unwavering commitment to achieving departmental goals regardless of complexity, pressure, or competing demands.
To build high performance skills in their employees, they can:
- Set clear, realistic, and measurable goals that define what success looks like. When employees understand expectations, timelines, and quality standards, they can focus their effort more effectively. Clarity reduces confusion and strengthens accountability.
- Provide consistent, timely communication that keeps employees aligned and informed. Early updates about risks, changes, or shifting priorities help employees adjust before problems escalate. Regular check-ins reinforce direction and maintain momentum.
- Strengthen processes and methods to make high performance easier to achieve. Structured workflows, review points, and progress indicators help employees stay organized and avoid last-minute crises. Good systems reduce variability and support consistent results.
- Develop employees through thoughtful delegation and increased responsibilities. Assigning stretch tasks builds capability, confidence, and long-term readiness. Matching responsibilities to strengths ensures critical work is handled by the right people.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and learning. Encouraging reflection, after-action reviews, and lessons learned helps employees refine their approach over time. This mindset reduces repeated mistakes and increases adaptability.
- Support resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness during change or pressure. Employees perform better when leaders help them navigate obstacles and adjust plans fluidly. Encouraging creative problem-solving keeps work moving forward even in uncertainty.
- Reinforce strong work habits such as time management, proactive planning, and follow-through. When employees anticipate needs, structure their work effectively, and stay committed to goals, performance becomes more predictable and reliable. These habits create stability across the team.
These actions improve Performance because they create an environment where employees know what is expected, have the tools and structure to execute effectively, and feel supported as they grow and adapt. Clear goals and communication reduce uncertainty, while strong processes and thoughtful delegation help employees work efficiently and confidently. By promoting continuous improvement, resilience, and disciplined work habits, managers build a culture where high performance becomes the norm--resulting in stronger results, greater accountability, and a more capable, motivated team.
360-Feedback Assessments Measuring Performance:
Survey 1 (4-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 2 (4-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 3 (5-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 4 (5-point scale; radio buttons)
Survey 5 (4-point scale; words)
Survey 6 (4-point scale; words)
Survey 7 (5-point scale; competency comments; N/A)
Survey 8 (3-point scale; Agree/Disagree words; N/A)
Survey 9 (3-point scale; Strength/Development; N/A)
Survey 10 (Comment boxes only)
Survey 11 (Single rating per competency)
Survey 12 (Slide-bar scale)
Survey 13 (4-point scale; numbers; floating anchors)
Survey 14 (4-point scale; N/A)
360-Degree Feedback Questionnaire Items
Performance gives managers the ability to turn expectations into consistent, high-quality results by leading with discipline, clarity, and strong personal drive. It enables them to stay focused on what matters most, uphold high standards even under pressure, and maintain the motivation needed to guide their teams through demanding or complex work. With strong Performance, managers become the steady force that keeps execution reliable and outcomes predictable.
High performing managers have the ability to anticipate needs, adapt quickly, and keep work moving forward despite obstacles, shifting priorities, or limited resources. It equips them to manage time effectively, make sound decisions under pressure, and use resilience and resourcefulness to navigate challenges without losing momentum. This allows teams to stay aligned, productive, and confident even when conditions are uncertain.
Managers have the ability to strengthen accountability, build momentum, and create an environment where people can operate at their best. Through clear communication, thoughtful delegation, and a calm, solutions-focused presence, they help employees stay engaged, responsible, and committed to shared goals. Ultimately, strong Performance enables managers to deliver results consistently while fostering continuous improvement and long-term team success.
Drive and MotivationDrive and Motivation reflects the internal engine behind performance--the intensity, initiative, and forward momentum a person brings to their work. It shows up as pushing through obstacles, elevating performance when stakes rise, keeping energy high during long projects, and proactively moving tasks forward without waiting for direction. Someone strong in this area doesn't just stay on track; they accelerate when conditions get tough, inspire others to raise their game, and use pressure as fuel. It's about ambition, initiative, and the desire to excel--an active, self-propelled force that keeps work moving with urgency and enthusiasm.
- Works effectively in the department.
- Meets deadlines consistently, even when workload or conditions intensify.
- Keeps energy and enthusiasm high, even during long or demanding projects.
- Works independently and keeps projects moving without needing constant guidance.
- Pushes through obstacles with determination rather than slowing down.
- Elevates performance when the situation demands exceptional effort.
- Achieves results by staying disciplined and solution-focused.
- Takes initiative to keep tasks moving without waiting for direction.
- Takes action to create conditions where the team can operate at peak effectiveness?
- Manages workload with minimal oversight while maintaining high standards.
- Completes work on time even when workload increases or conditions change.
- Encourages others to increase their job performance.
- Uses high-pressure moments to sharpen focus and accelerate execution.
Strong Work EthicStrong Work Ethic is about reliability, steadiness, and disciplined follow-through. It emphasizes consistency over intensity--showing up prepared, maintaining quality even under strain, staying productive across slow or chaotic periods, and meeting commitments without reminders. This dimension is less about acceleration and more about dependability: doing what needs to be done, every time, regardless of distractions, fatigue, or competing demands. It reflects professionalism, responsibility, and sustained effort over time.
- Demonstrates disciplined work habits that support sustained high performance.
- Consistently completes tasks on time and meets commitments without reminders.
- Demonstrates consistent effort regardless of external pressures.
- Shows up prepared and ready to work every day, regardless of circumstances.
- Demonstrates steadiness and reliability when timelines tighten.
- Follows through reliably without needing reminders or close supervision.
- Remains dependable and steady even when facing personal stress, fatigue, or competing demands.
- Maintains steady productivity across busy, slow, or unpredictable periods.
- Maintains high quality even when deadlines are tight or conditions difficult.
- Remains reliable and steady during high-pressure periods or unexpected disruptions.
- Shows persistence and determination when progress is slow or obstacles arise.
- Follows through on responsibilities from start to finish with minimal oversight.
- Delivers work as promised, even when juggling multiple priorities.
High StandardsHigh Standards centers on the quality bar a person sets for themselves and others. It's about defining what excellent performance looks like, establishing clear expectations, and consistently producing work that meets or exceeds those expectations--even under pressure, shifting priorities, or ambiguity. Someone strong in this area pays close attention to detail, delivers work that rarely needs rework, and maintains the same level of rigor in both calm and crisis. High Standards is fundamentally about the level of performance: setting ambitious goals, upholding precision, and ensuring that outcomes reflect a commitment to excellence.
- Holds employees to the same standards in crisis as in calm periods.
- Produces work that requires little to no rework due to strong personal standards.
- Defines clear performance targets so employees understand what success looks like.
- Demonstrates consistent reliability that others can count on.
- Sets standards for performance.
- Consistently delivers high-quality work regardless of challenges.
- Establishes performance expectations that can be objectively evaluated.
- Holds themselves to the same performance standards they expect from others.
- Sustains performance expectations despite uncertainty, ambiguity, or rapidly shifting priorities.
- Pays attention to detail and ensures accuracy before submitting work.
- Sets performance objectives and standards.
- Sets and establishes performance goals.
- Delivers consistent, high-quality results even when operating under intense deadlines or constraints.
- Maintains high standards even when facing tight deadlines or shifting priorities.
Overcomes ResistanceOvercomes Resistance is about removing barriers and enabling forward movement by actively navigating constraints, rethinking strategies, and transforming challenges into workable solutions. It reflects adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving under pressure--spotting obstacles early, clarifying direction, and using resourcefulness to keep the team or project operating at peak effectiveness. This competency is fundamentally about clearing the path: turning difficult conditions into catalysts for action, adjusting approaches when needed, and ensuring progress continues despite situational limitations.
- Turns challenges into workable solutions.
- Enables the team to operate at peak effectiveness by removing obstacles and clarifying direction.
- Rethinks approach when faced with constraints.
- Identifies and eliminates barriers that slow the team down.
- Works effectively despite obstacles or limitations.
- Identifies barriers quickly and adapts strategies to move forward.
- Overcomes situational constraints and challenges.
- Turns difficult conditions into catalysts for decisive action and forward movement.
- Uses creativity and resourcefulness to overcome roadblocks.
- Maintains progress by rethinking approaches when faced with constraints.
- Navigates constraints to achieve strong results.
ProactiveProactive behavior is about anticipating what needs to happen next and taking early, self-directed action to keep work on track. It focuses on looking ahead--spotting potential delays, preparing for upcoming deadlines, sequencing work logically, and addressing emerging issues before they become problems. Someone strong in this area builds buffer time, identifies high-value tasks, and mitigates obstacles early so goals are met smoothly. Proactivity is fundamentally about forward-thinking ownership: acting before being asked, preventing problems rather than reacting to them, and ensuring momentum by staying several steps ahead.
- Builds safeguards into plans so unexpected issues don't slow the team down.
- Anticipates risks and prepares the team to stay on track.
- Proactively anticipates barriers to meeting goals and takes early action to prevent delays.
- Identifies what needs to be done and takes action without waiting to be asked.
- Identifies potential delays early and adjusts plans to stay on schedule.
- Builds in buffer time to manage unexpected issues without compromising quality.
- Identifies high-value tasks and focuses attention on what matters most.
- Ensures goals are met by proactively addressing emerging issues.
- Sustains performance by anticipating and mitigating obstacles.
- Prepares in advance for upcoming deadlines, meetings, or deliverables.
- Sequences work logically to ensure critical deadlines are met.
- Anticipates next steps and prepares for them proactively.
PerseverancePerseverance is about sustained effort and determination over time--continuing to deliver results even when conditions are tedious, volatile, or discouraging. It emphasizes endurance, focus, and steady productivity through setbacks, interruptions, shifting priorities, or high-demand periods. While Overcomes Resistance is about removing obstacles, Perseverance is about pushing through them with consistency and resilience. It reflects the ability to maintain expectations, keep momentum, and stay productive when others might slow down or lose focus.
- Keeps work moving forward despite interruptions or shifting priorities.
- Delivers outcomes even when conditions are difficult.
- Persists through setbacks without lowering expectations.
- Perseveres through setbacks to maintain performance.
- Remains productive by adjusting plans when circumstances shift.
- Stays focused and efficient during high-demand periods.
- Demonstrates determination and follow-through despite competing demands.
- Stays focused and productive even when tasks are tedious or challenging.
- Performs consistently in environments where others may falter.
- Keeps the organization moving forward even when external conditions are volatile.
- Responds constructively to unexpected issues and keeps momentum.
Understands the JobUnderstands the Job reflects a person's mastery of their current role--their ability to perform the job effectively, organize work, plan resources, and navigate the organization to get things done. It's about knowing the responsibilities, understanding how to execute them well, and demonstrating strong overall performance rooted in skill, knowledge, and situational awareness. Someone strong in this area learns quickly, grasps all aspects of the role, and consistently applies that understanding to deliver solid results. This competency is fundamentally about role proficiency: knowing what the job requires and performing it with confidence and competence.
- Able to organize work.
- Effective in performing his/her job.
- Has great overall performance.
- Effectively organizes resources and plans.
- Works well in this position.
- Displays organizational savvy; knows who to contact in order to get things done.
- Understands how to do the job well.
- Understands all aspects of the job.
- Able to learn important aspects of the job quickly.
- Acquires relevant job knowledge easily.
DelegatesDelegates is about distributing work effectively across a team to maximize capability, ownership, and performance. It focuses on assigning responsibilities that match people's strengths, ensuring each person has clear accountability, and reallocating tasks as priorities shift. Delegation is less about anticipating tasks and more about structuring the workload: deciding who should own which outcomes, empowering others with meaningful responsibilities, and building team capacity by assigning higher-impact tasks that develop judgment and independence. It's a leadership behavior rooted in trust, clarity, and strategic workload management.
- Distributes responsibilities in a way that maximizes team strengths and capacity.
- Delegates higher-impact tasks to build confidence, judgment, and independence.
- Balances workload by reallocating responsibilities when priorities shift.
- Assigns responsibilities that ensure critical tasks are handled by the most capable individuals.
- Provides employees with ownership of work streams that require sustained accountability.
- Assigns specific responsibilities to individuals on the team.
- Assigns responsibilities that directly support departmental goals and performance metrics.
- Ensures each team member has clear ownership of specific outcomes.
Increases ResponsibilitiesIncreases Responsibilities is about expanding beyond the current role--either by taking on more responsibility personally or by assigning greater responsibility to others when in a leadership position. It focuses on growth, development, and readiness for more complex or strategic work. This competency includes recognizing when someone is ready for stretch assignments, encouraging employees to take on more challenging tasks, and using increased responsibility as a tool for development and future leadership preparation. It's fundamentally about progression and capacity building: identifying potential, elevating contributions, and creating opportunities for people to grow beyond their current scope.
- Selects individuals for responsibilities that align with their long-term development path.
- Supports employees who volunteer for challenging assignments or new roles.
- Assigns stretch tasks that help employees grow beyond their current role.
- Recognizes and rewards employees who take initiative to expand their contributions.
- Identifies high performers and entrusts them with more visible or strategic work.
- Provides opportunities for employees to demonstrate capability in new or demanding areas.
- Encourages me to take on greater responsibility.
- Encourages employees to take on responsibilities that strengthen weak performance areas.
- Adjusts responsibility levels based on demonstrated reliability and performance trends.
- Recognizes when employees are ready for expanded duties and acts on it promptly.
- Promotes a culture where employees seek out additional responsibilities proactively.
- Gradually increases the complexity of assignments as employees demonstrate readiness.
- Assigns responsibilities that challenge employees to elevate their performance.
- Uses increased responsibility to prepare employees for future leadership roles.
AccountabilityAccountability focuses on ownership of actions, decisions, and outcomes. It's less about the bar that's set and more about taking responsibility for meeting it. This includes acknowledging mistakes transparently, taking responsibility for both the process and the result, and holding others to their commitments as well. Accountability shows up in confronting underperformance, ensuring each person contributes to shared goals, and owning errors without excuses or deflection. It reflects integrity, responsibility, and follow-through.
- Owns both the outcome and the process that led to the mistake.
- Holds employees accountable for outcomes, not just effort.
- Takes full responsibility for errors without deflecting or minimizing the impact.
- Expects members of the department to each contribute to the attainment of goals.
- Rewards achievers and confronts sub par performance.
- Acknowledges mistakes promptly and transparently, even when the consequences are significant.
- Takes personal responsibility for the quality and timeliness of their work.
- Holds individuals accountable for the responsibilities they've been entrusted with.
Continuous ImprovementContinuous Improvement is about learning, reflection, and evolution over time. It focuses on analyzing successes and failures, identifying root causes, and applying lessons to improve future performance. Someone strong in this area actively seeks insights, integrates feedback, adjusts workflows, and implements safeguards to prevent repeat issues. The emphasis is on curiosity, humility, and deliberate growth--using mistakes as catalysts for better habits, stronger processes, and higher-quality outcomes. Continuous Improvement is fundamentally about getting better every cycle, and it aligns naturally with concepts like learning agility and root-cause analysis.
- Shown significant improvement in job performance.
- Implements new safeguards, processes, or habits to reduce the likelihood of repeating mistakes.
- Adjusts workflows or decision-making approaches based on what was learned.
- Openly shares lessons learned to help others avoid similar mistakes.
- Uses mistakes as catalysts for skill development and performance improvement.
- Applies lessons learned to prevent recurrence of the same issue.
- Makes after-action reviews a consistent practice.
- Uses insights from past errors to anticipate and avoid similar challenges.
- Approaches problems with curiosity rather than frustration.
- Integrates feedback and insights from errors into future work practices.
- Examines what went wrong to understand root causes rather than symptoms.
- Reflects on difficult experiences to extract insights and improve future performance.
- Analyzes missteps to determine what could be done differently next time.
- Reviews decisions and actions critically to identify improvement opportunities.
- Actively seeks lessons in both successes and failures.
- Normalizes constructive reflection by discussing what was learned, not just what went wrong.
- Models humility and continuous improvement for peers and team members.
ResourcefulResourceful is about finding effective ways to succeed in the moment, especially when resources, time, or structure are limited. It emphasizes agility, creativity, and problem-solving under pressure--breaking complex obstacles into manageable parts, reallocating resources, improvising workflows, and leveraging overlooked assets to keep work moving. While Continuous Improvement is about long-term growth, Resourcefulness is about real-time adaptability: responding quickly to disruptions, maintaining momentum in uncertainty, and turning challenging environments into opportunities for action. This competency connects closely to ideas like creative problem-solving and adaptive execution.
- Balances competing priorities without letting important tasks slip.
- Identifies unconventional but effective methods to keep work on track when standard processes break down.
- Rapidly assembles temporary structures (ad hoc teams, improvised workflows, or quick decision loops) to maintain momentum during periods of uncertainty or disruption.
- Leverages overlooked, underutilized, or cross-functional resources to close performance gaps.
- Breaks complex obstacles into solvable components and sequences them intelligently.
- Responds to unexpected challenges with agility rather than hesitation.
- Turns challenging environments into opportunities for the team to mobilize and deliver.
- Finds ways to succeed when resources or time are limited.
- Reallocates resources and priorities to maintain progress during disruption.
- Ensures that tasks are completed effectively and efficiently.
Positive AttitudePositive Attitude is about the emotional tone and mindset a person brings to challenges. It emphasizes optimism, encouragement, and a solutions-focused outlook that lifts team morale. Someone strong in this area reframes setbacks as opportunities, helps others stay engaged, and communicates confidence even when conditions are uncertain. Positive Attitude is fundamentally about shaping the emotional climate: using optimism to keep people motivated, forward-looking, and open to possibilities.
- Helps teammates maintain morale by focusing on possibilities rather than limitations.
- Models steadiness that helps stabilize the team during turbulence.
- Approaches challenges with a constructive, solutions-focused attitude.
- Supports others in reframing setbacks and staying engaged.
- Uses optimism to create a constructive, forward-looking team environment.
- Communicates confidence in the team's ability to overcome obstacles.
- Keeps a positive outlook even when conditions are uncertain or difficult.
- Demonstrates calm, clear thinking when stakes are high or conditions deteriorate.
- Reframes unexpected changes as opportunities to improve or innovate.
Calm and SteadyCalm and Steady is about emotional regulation and composure under pressure. It focuses on stability, professionalism, and the ability to remain centered when others feel overwhelmed. Someone strong in this competency provides a grounding presence--responding to mistakes without blame, maintaining direction during uncertainty, and staying effective when stakes rise. Calm and Steady is fundamentally about emotional consistency: being the person others can count on to remain clear-headed, reliable, and unshaken.
- Leads with conviction even when conditions are unfavorable or outcomes are uncertain.
- Responds to mistakes with composure and a focus on solutions rather than blame.
- Stays focused and effective under pressure or uncertainty.
- Maintains team morale and direction during periods of uncertainty or strain.
- Stays calm and centered during stressful or high-pressure situations.
- Provides stability for the team by being someone others can count on.
- Models composure that helps steady the team during turbulence.
- Maintains professionalism and stability even when others feel overwhelmed.
ResilienceResilience is about recovering quickly and staying motivated after setbacks. It focuses on how someone responds when things go wrong--bouncing back, regaining direction, and turning disruptions into actionable next steps. A resilient person doesn't just endure difficulty; they re-engage with purpose, maintain momentum when others might stall, and use setbacks as fuel to refine strategies and strengthen performance. The emphasis is on rebound speed and sustained drive, making this closely connected to ideas like performance recovery and learning from setbacks.
- Demonstrates resilience by maintaining effort when others might lose momentum.
- Turns setbacks into actionable next steps that strengthen future performance.
- Demonstrates resilience by quickly shifting from error recognition to corrective action.
- Prevents setbacks from derailing progress by quickly establishing a new path forward.
- Regains focus rapidly after disruptions and re-engages with the work.
- Bounces back from disappointments without losing motivation or direction.
- Uses setbacks as fuel to refine strategies and strengthen performance.
- Recovers quickly from disruptions and reestablishes direction.
CommunicationCommunication is about how information flows--clarifying expectations, sharing goals, providing updates, and ensuring alignment through timely, two-way dialogue. It focuses on listening to issues, giving feedback, meeting regularly to discuss performance, and proactively signaling challenges before they become problems. Someone strong in this area keeps others informed, reinforces ownership through clear messaging, and prevents surprises by maintaining open, consistent communication channels. Communication is fundamentally about creating clarity and connection, which ties naturally to ideas like expectation setting and feedback loops.
- Listens and responds to issues and problems.
- Communicates goals and objectives to employees.
- Communicates with the team to help realign strategic direction and stay productive?
- Provides timely updates on progress to ensure alignment and avoid surprises.
- Consistently provides timely feedback for improving performance.
- Proactively communicates when challenges arise and adjusts to stay on track.
- Keeps the team aligned and informed when challenges require an adjustment the plan.
- Communicates goals in a way that reinforces ownership and responsibility.
- Meets regularly to discuss job performance.
- Communicates early and clearly when a risk or issue could affect progress.
- Clarifies expectations to ensure commitments are realistic and achievable.
Goal SettingGoal Setting is about defining the targets themselves--creating clear, realistic, and measurable goals that set the standard for performance. It focuses on establishing both short- and long-term objectives, building in metrics and timelines, and ensuring goals stretch performance while still aligning with available resources and operational realities. Someone strong in this area promotes a culture where goal creation is routine, sets ambitious expectations, and uses well-structured goals to drive continuous improvement. This competency is fundamentally about designing the destination, which connects naturally to ideas like performance metrics and strategic goal design.
- Sets a high standard for job performance.
- Sets goals that stretch performance while maintaining quality standards.
- Promotes a culture where goal setting is part of routine performance practice.
- Involves employees in setting clear, achievable performance goals.
- Establishes goals that encourage continuous improvement and skill development.
- Sets and achieves ambitious goals; makes change happen.
- Ability to establish realistic goals.
- Sets high goals and strives to meet them.
- Creates goals with clear metrics, timelines, and deliverables.
- Sets goals that reflect available resources, timelines, and operational realities.
- Sets long-term and short-term goals.
Goal OrientedGoal Oriented is about executing toward those goals and keeping them aligned over time. It emphasizes breaking broad objectives into actionable milestones, revisiting goals throughout the performance cycle, and adjusting them when strategic priorities shift. Someone strong in this area ensures individual and team goals stay connected to organizational priorities, helps refine vague goals into specific commitments, and proactively identifies barriers to maintain progress. This competency is fundamentally about driving the journey toward the destination, making it closely related to concepts like milestone planning and goal alignment.
- Adjusts goals to maintain alignment when strategic priorities shift.
- Translates organizational priorities into specific, measurable goals for the team.
- Guides employees in setting their own performance goals that support team outcomes.
- Breaks broad objectives into concrete milestones to guide day-to-day work.
- Uses goal setting to focus attention on critical performance areas.
- Reviews goals to identify barriers and adjust plans proactively.
- Ensures individual goals align with departmental and organizational performance priorities.
- Revisits goals throughout the performance cycle to ensure progress stays on track.
- Links goals to performance reviews, coaching conversations, and development plans.
- Regularly revisits goals to ensure they remain relevant and achievable.
- Helps employees refine vague goals into specific, actionable commitments.
CommitmentCommitment is about follow-through, dedication, and reliability. It reflects a person's willingness to meet deadlines, honor obligations, and stay fully engaged even when conditions are difficult or demands compete. Someone strong in this area shows steady effort across long projects, remains dedicated to team and departmental goals, and maintains discipline regardless of personal circumstances. Commitment is fundamentally about showing up with consistency and purpose, making it closely aligned with concepts like follow-through and team dedication.
- Consistently meets deadlines and fulfills obligations as promised.
- Maintains commitment to established goals even when competing demands arise.
- Demonstrates personal commitment and engagement to the success of the team.
- Keeps commitments even when conditions become difficult.
- Is personally dedicated to achieving the department goals.
- Ensures commitment and discipline remain steady when demands or priorities shift.
- Meets expectations with the same level of commitment, even when circumstances are challenging.
- Shows up with the same level of commitment and discipline regardless of personal circumstances.
- Demonstrates steady effort and engagement across long, demanding projects.
- Maintains a consistent level of commitment and discipline across changing work conditions.
Adaptability/FlexibilityAdaptability/Flexibility is about adjusting effectively when conditions, information, or priorities change. It emphasizes openness to new ideas, willingness to shift plans, and the ability to stay productive and composed when the environment is fluid. Someone strong in this area responds to new information without resistance, modifies their approach to stay aligned with core objectives, and signals early when support or adjustments are needed. Adaptability is fundamentally about fluid adjustment, making it closely aligned with concepts like flexible thinking and agile response.
- Is flexible, imaginative, and willing to take risks.
- Adjusts plans fluidly when conditions shift, without losing sight of core objectives.
- Adjusts quickly when plans shift, maintaining productivity and composure.
- Is open to new ideas and willing to learn.
- Signals early when support or adjustments are needed to meet deadlines.
- Responds to new information with flexibility rather than resistance.
Time ManagementTime Management is about how an individual structures and protects their time to maintain steady progress on work. It focuses on breaking large tasks into manageable steps, sequencing work realistically, reviewing workload early, and using tools or systems to stay organized. Someone strong in this area builds buffer time, avoids last-minute rushes, and minimizes interruptions to preserve focus. Time Management is fundamentally about personal workflow discipline--ensuring that hours, days, and weeks are planned in a way that supports consistent execution.
- Structures the workday to maintain steady progress on key responsibilities.
- Uses schedules, tools, or systems to stay organized and on track.
- Allocates time appropriately for complex tasks to avoid last-minute rushes.
- Completes routine tasks ahead of schedule to create buffer time.
- Regularly reviews workload and adjusts plans early.
- Protects focused work time by minimizing avoidable interruptions.
- Breaks large assignments into sequenced, manageable steps with realistic timelines.
Processes and MethodsProcesses and Methods is about the structured systems and frameworks used to achieve goals--not just for oneself, but often for the team. It emphasizes following established workflows, using progress indicators, and building the structure and momentum that help others excel under pressure. Someone strong in this area relies on facts and metrics to track progress, reinforces consistent methods, and creates clarity around how work should be executed. Processes and Methods is fundamentally about operational structure--the repeatable approaches that guide performance across individuals or teams.
- Defines who does what, when, and how, ensuring smooth transitions and eliminating bottlenecks.
- Builds the structure, focus, and momentum that allow others to excel under pressure.
- Structures work to maintain high performance, even during demanding periods.
- Follows structured methods and workflows used to achieve goals.
- Monitors progress early to catch issues before they become setbacks.
- Builds structured review points into projects to assess progress, identify risks early, and adjust plans proactively.
- Uses relevant facts to measure and track progress toward achievement of individual and team goals.
- Applies systematic planning to ensure people, time, and tools are aligned with priorities and used efficiently.
- Establishes repeatable processes that reduce variability and help the team deliver consistent results.
- Uses progress indicators to monitor advancement toward goals.
Critical Thinking and Decision MakingCritical Thinking and Decision Making is about how a person analyzes situations and takes action, especially when pressure, ambiguity, or risk are high. It emphasizes making sound decisions quickly, taking responsibility for tough calls, and acting decisively when others hesitate. Someone strong in this area evaluates incomplete information, weighs risks, and chooses a path forward without getting stuck in uncertainty. This competency is fundamentally about clarity and decisiveness under pressure, which connects naturally to ideas like rapid decision analysis and risk-aware judgment.
- Analyzes the situation and takes prompt action.
- Makes sound decisions quickly, even when information is incomplete or time is limited.
- Considers several potential solutions, weighing risks, impacts, and trade-offs before choosing a course of action.
- Monitors outcomes, recognizes when a decision is not producing the desired results, and pivots quickly to address the situation.
- Thinks ahead to predict downstream effects of decisions and proactively mitigates potential issues.
- Takes decisive action when others hesitate due to pressure or risk.
- Questions initial impressions, biases, or conventional thinking to ensure decisions are grounded in reality rather than habit.
- Makes tough decisions in difficult environments.
- Takes responsibility for making tough decisions.
- Gathers relevant information, identifies patterns, and applies analytical reasoning to reach well-supported conclusions.
Employee Opinion Survey Items
Employees with high Performance help organizations and departments by delivering consistent, high-quality results that keep work moving forward regardless of complexity, pressure, or shifting priorities. They anticipate needs, manage their time effectively, and overcome obstacles with resilience, resourcefulness, and sound decision-making, which reduces delays and strengthens operational reliability. Their strong work ethic, clear communication, commitment to goals, and ability to adapt quickly create momentum, reinforce accountability, and elevate the performance of the entire team.
Drive and MotivationDrive and Motivation reflects the energy, initiative, and forward momentum an individual brings to their work, especially when conditions intensify or expectations rise. It shows up in behaviors like pushing through obstacles with determination, elevating performance during high-pressure moments, maintaining enthusiasm during long or demanding projects, and keeping tasks moving without waiting for direction. People strong in this area manage workload with minimal oversight, stay solution-focused when challenges emerge, and help create conditions where the team can operate at peak effectiveness. Drive and Motivation is about the internal force that propels someone to accelerate execution, raise performance levels, and sustain momentum even when demands increase.
- The project manager pushes through obstacles with determination rather than slowing down.
- My team takes initiative to keep tasks moving without waiting for direction.
- My coworkers keep energy and enthusiasm high, even during long or demanding projects.
- Team members achieve results by staying disciplined and solution-focused.
- Associates complete work on time even when workload increases or conditions change.
- My team leader elevates performance when the situation demands exceptional effort.
- The supervisor works independently and keeps projects moving without needing constant guidance.
- My manager works effectively in the department.
- The project manager meets deadlines consistently, even when workload or conditions intensify.
- Employees in my department manage workload with minimal oversight while maintaining high standards.
- My manager uses high-pressure moments to sharpen focus and accelerate execution.
- Managers encourage others to increase their job performance.
- Our manager takes action to create conditions where the team can operate at peak effectiveness?
Strong Work EthicStrong Work Ethic reflects the discipline, dependability, and consistency a person brings to their responsibilities, regardless of circumstances. It is demonstrated through reliable follow-through, steady productivity across busy or unpredictable periods, and the ability to maintain high quality even when juggling multiple priorities or facing tight deadlines. Individuals with a strong work ethic remain calm, prepared, and committed every day, showing persistence when progress is slow and staying dependable even under stress, fatigue, or competing demands. Strong Work Ethic captures the disciplined habits and reliability that keep performance steady, stable, and trustworthy over time.
- The members of my team show up prepared and ready to work every day, regardless of circumstances.
- Employees remain dependable and steady even when facing personal stress, fatigue, or competing demands.
- Our team maintains steady productivity across busy, slow, or unpredictable periods.
- My team demonstrates consistent effort regardless of external pressures.
- Associates follow through reliably without needing reminders or close supervision.
- Coworkers in my department show persistence and determination when progress is slow or obstacles arise.
- My team maintains high quality even when deadlines are tight or conditions difficult.
- My manager demonstrates steadiness and reliability when timelines tighten.
- Colleagues deliver work as promised, even when juggling multiple priorities.
- The members of my team demonstrate disciplined work habits that support sustained high performance.
- The supervisor remains reliable and steady during high-pressure periods or unexpected disruptions.
- Coworkers follow through on responsibilities from start to finish with minimal oversight.
- Our manager completes tasks on time and meets commitments without reminders.
High StandardsHigh Standards reflects the quality bar an individual or team sets for their work--how precise, accurate, and reliable the output is, regardless of pressure, deadlines, or shifting priorities. It shows up in behaviors such as producing work that requires little rework, paying close attention to detail, defining clear performance expectations, and maintaining the same level of excellence in crisis as in calm periods. People strong in High Standards hold themselves and others accountable to objective, measurable expectations and consistently deliver high-quality results even under constraints. High Standards is about the rigor, precision, and consistency of the work itself and the expectations that guide it.
- Managers hold themselves to the same performance standards they expect from others.
- My manager maintains high standards even when facing tight deadlines or shifting priorities.
- My manager defines clear performance targets so employees understand what success looks like.
- Our team establishes performance expectations that can be objectively evaluated.
- Colleagues pay attention to detail and ensure accuracy before submitting work.
- Employees in my department set and establish high performance goals.
- Leaders set performance objectives and standards.
- My manager holds employees to the same standards in crisis as in calm periods.
- Our department delivers consistent, high-quality results even when operating under intense deadlines or constraints.
- Associates produce work that requires little to no rework due to strong personal standards.
- My team leader delivers high-quality work regardless of challenges.
- The project manager sustains performance expectations despite uncertainty, ambiguity, or rapidly shifting priorities.
- My coworkers demonstrate consistent reliability that others can count on.
- My department sets standards for performance.
Overcomes ResistanceOvercomes Resistance reflects a person's ability to remove barriers, rethink approaches, and convert constraints into forward movement. It shows up when individuals or managers identify obstacles quickly, adapt strategies, use creativity and resourcefulness to navigate limitations, and turn difficult conditions into catalysts for decisive action. People strong in this area don't just push through challenges--they actively solve them by eliminating roadblocks, clarifying direction, and enabling the team to operate at peak effectiveness. Overcomes Resistance is about problem-solving under constraint: diagnosing what's slowing progress and engineering a path that restores momentum.
- Managers identify and eliminate barriers that slow the team down.
- The project lead turns challenges into workable solutions.
- The project manager enables the team to operate at peak effectiveness by removing obstacles and clarifying direction.
- Our manager maintains progress by rethinking approaches when faced with constraints.
- My supervisor turns difficult conditions into catalysts for decisive action and forward movement.
- My manager identifies barriers quickly and adapts strategies to move forward.
- My manager uses creativity and resourcefulness to overcome roadblocks.
- My supervisor overcomes situational constraints and challenges.
- Our team navigates constraints to achieve strong results.
- Our supervisor rethinks their approach when faced with constraints.
- Associates work effectively despite obstacles or limitations.
ProactiveProactive reflects a person's ability to anticipate what needs to happen next and take early action to keep work on track before problems emerge. It shows up in behaviors such as sequencing work logically, identifying high-value tasks, preparing in advance for deadlines, and building safeguards or buffer time into plans. Individuals strong in this area spot risks early, adjust plans to avoid delays, and take initiative without waiting for direction. Proactive is about forward-looking action--seeing what's coming, preparing for it, and preventing obstacles from slowing progress.
- Leaders identify potential delays early and adjust plans to stay on schedule.
- My manager anticipates risks and prepares the team to stay on track.
- Team members anticipate barriers to meeting goals and take early action to prevent delays.
- The members of my team prepare in advance for upcoming deadlines, meetings, or deliverables.
- The team leader anticipates next steps and prepares for them proactively.
- Our manager builds in buffer time to manage unexpected issues without compromising quality.
- My manager ensures goals are met by proactively addressing emerging issues.
- Team members identify high-value tasks and focus attention on what matters most.
- Coworkers in my department sustain performance by anticipating and mitigating obstacles.
- My coworkers identify what needs to be done and take action without waiting to be asked.
- Managers build safeguards into plans so unexpected issues don't slow the team down.
- Colleagues sequence work logically to ensure critical deadlines are met.
PerseverancePerseverance reflects the sustained effort, focus, and determination required to maintain performance over time, especially when work is tedious, demanding, or repeatedly disrupted. It appears in behaviors such as staying productive during high-demand periods, persisting through setbacks without lowering expectations, adjusting plans when circumstances shift, and maintaining steady output even when others may falter. Individuals strong in Perseverance keep work moving despite fatigue, interruptions, or competing pressures, demonstrating follow-through and consistent effort across changing conditions. Perseverance is about endurance and steadiness: continuing to perform reliably when the work is difficult, prolonged, or unpredictable.
- My manager demonstrates determination and follow-through despite competing demands.
- Employees in my department persevere through setbacks to maintain performance.
- Coworkers in my department persist through setbacks without lowering expectations.
- My team performs consistently in environments where others may falter.
- Our manager keeps work moving forward despite interruptions or shifting priorities.
- My supervisor delivers outcomes even when conditions are difficult.
- Team members respond constructively to unexpected issues and keep momentum.
- Associates remain productive by adjusting plan when circumstances shift.
- Colleagues stay focused and efficient during high-demand periods.
- My department stays focused and productive even when tasks are tedious or challenging.
- The project manager keeps the organization moving forward even when external conditions are volatile.
Understands the JobUnderstands the Job reflects the knowledge, competence, and situational awareness required to perform effectively--how well an individual grasps the responsibilities, processes, and organizational context of their role. It appears in behaviors such as learning job tasks quickly, organizing work efficiently, knowing who to contact to get things done, and understanding all aspects of the job well enough to plan, coordinate, and execute effectively. People strong in this area demonstrate organizational savvy, resource planning, and the ability to navigate systems and responsibilities with confidence. Understands the Job is about mastery of the role--knowing what to do, how to do it, and how to move work through the organization.
- My coworkers understand all aspects of the job.
- Associates are able to learn important aspects of the job quickly.
- Our team organizes resources and plans to get the job done.
- Coworkers in my department acquire relevant job knowledge easily.
- Employees in my department are able to efficiently organize their work.
- The supervisor works well in their position.
- My team understands how to do the job well.
- The members of my team have great overall performance.
- Managers are effective in performing their job.
- My manager displays organizational savvy; knows who to contact in order to get things done.
DelegatesDelegates reflects a leader's ability to assign responsibilities strategically so that work is distributed effectively, team strengths are maximized, and accountability is clear. It appears in behaviors such as giving individuals ownership of specific outcomes, reallocating responsibilities when priorities shift, and assigning tasks to the most capable people to ensure high-impact work is handled well. Leaders strong in Delegates build confidence and independence by matching tasks to skills, clarifying ownership, and ensuring the team has the capacity to meet goals. Delegates is about work distribution and empowerment--structuring who does what so the team can perform at its highest level.
- The project manager assigns responsibilities that ensure critical tasks are handled by the most capable individuals.
- Managers assign specific responsibilities to individuals on the team.
- Managers provide employees with ownership of work streams that require sustained accountability.
- The supervisor delegates higher-impact tasks to build confidence, judgment, and independence.
- Our team balances workload by reallocating responsibilities when priorities change.
- The team leader ensures each team member has clear ownership of specific outcomes.
- My manager assigns responsibilities that directly support departmental goals and performance metrics.
- Leaders distribute responsibilities in a way that maximizes team strengths and capacity.
Increases ResponsibilitiesIncreases Responsibilities reflects a leader's ability to expand an employee's scope of work in a deliberate, developmental, and future-focused way. It shows up when managers assign stretch tasks, increase assignment complexity as readiness grows, align responsibilities with long-term development paths, and create opportunities for employees to demonstrate capability in new or demanding areas. Leaders strong in this dimension recognize when individuals are ready for more, entrust them with visible or strategic work, and use increased responsibility as a tool to build confidence, judgment, and leadership potential. Increases Responsibilities is about growth and progression--intentionally expanding what someone is responsible for so they can develop and contribute at a higher level.
- My team promotes a culture where employees seek out additional responsibilities proactively.
- Managers gradually increase the complexity of assignments as employees demonstrate readiness.
- My manager selects individuals for responsibilities that align with their long-term development path.
- The team leader identifies high performers and entrusts them with more visible or strategic work.
- Our department adjusts responsibility levels based on demonstrated reliability and performance trends.
- My manager encourages me to take on greater responsibility.
- My manager assigns stretch tasks that help employees grow beyond their current role.
- Our team recognizes when employees are ready for expanded duties and acts on it promptly.
- Managers support employees who volunteer for challenging assignments or new roles.
- Our department recognizes and rewards employees who take initiative to expand their contributions.
- The supervisor assigns responsibilities that challenge employees to elevate their performance.
- Leaders provide opportunities for employees to demonstrate capability in new or demanding areas.
- The project lead encourages employees to take on responsibilities that strengthen weak performance areas.
- My supervisor uses increased responsibility to prepare employees for future leadership roles.
AccountabilityAccountability reflects a leader's ability to ensure individuals own their commitments, deliver on expectations, and take responsibility for outcomes--both positive and negative. It appears in behaviors such as holding employees responsible for their assigned duties, confronting subpar performance, acknowledging mistakes transparently, and ensuring team members contribute fully to departmental goals. Leaders strong in Accountability set clear expectations, reinforce ownership of both process and results, and model responsibility by taking full ownership of their own errors and commitments. Accountability is about ownership and follow-through--making sure people deliver what they've been entrusted with and learn from the outcomes.
- Our manager acknowledges mistakes promptly and transparently, even when the consequences are significant.
- Supervisors take full responsibility for errors without deflecting or minimizing the impact.
- Managers expect members of the department to each contribute to the attainment of goals.
- Team members own both the outcome and the process that led to the mistake.
- Our team rewards achievers and confronts sub par performance.
- The team leader holds employees accountable for outcomes, not just effort.
- The project lead takes personal responsibility for the quality and timeliness of their work.
- My manager holds individuals accountable for the responsibilities they've been entrusted with.
Continuous ImprovementContinuous Improvement reflects a person's ability to learn from experience, analyze performance, and intentionally refine how work gets done over time. It shows up when individuals examine what went wrong to understand root causes, reflect on both successes and failures, and integrate lessons learned into future decisions, workflows, and safeguards. People strong in this dimension normalize constructive reflection, adjust processes to prevent repeat issues, and use insights from past errors to anticipate and avoid similar challenges. At its core, Continuous Improvement is about systematic learning and evolution--using feedback, analysis, and curiosity to elevate performance and strengthen future outcomes.
- Leaders examine what went wrong to understand root cause rather than just symptoms of the problem.
- Employees in my department review decisions and actions critically to identify improvement opportunities.
- Our team shares lessons learned to help others avoid similar mistakes.
- My manager normalizes constructive reflection by discussing what was learned, not just what went wrong.
- Colleagues reflect on difficult experiences to extract insights and improve future performance.
- Our department analyzes missteps to determine what could be done differently next time.
- My supervisor integrates feedback and insights from errors into future work practices.
- My team applies lessons learned to prevent recurrence of the same issue.
- My team leader models humility and continuous improvement for peers and team members.
- My supervisor implements new safeguards, processes, or habits to reduce the likelihood of repeating mistakes.
- The supervisor makes after-action reviews a consistent practice.
- Coworkers in my department seek lessons in both successes and failures.
- The supervisor adjusts workflows or decision-making approaches based on what was learned.
- Our department uses mistakes as catalysts for skill development and performance improvement.
- My manager uses insights from past errors to anticipate and avoid similar challenges.
- Our team approaches problems with curiosity rather than frustration.
- Associates have shown significant improvement in job performance.
ResourcefulResourceful reflects a person's ability to navigate constraints, improvise effectively, and find workable solutions when conditions are difficult or resources are limited. It appears in behaviors such as leveraging overlooked or cross-functional resources, assembling temporary structures to maintain momentum, breaking complex obstacles into solvable components, and identifying unconventional but effective methods when standard processes break down. Individuals strong in this area respond to unexpected challenges with agility, rebalance priorities without letting critical tasks slip, and find ways to succeed even in challenging environments. Resourceful is about creative problem-solving under pressure--mobilizing what is available, adapting quickly, and keeping work moving despite limitations.
- Our department reallocates resources and priorities to maintain progress during disruption.
- The project manager identifies unconventional but effective methods to keep work on track when standard processes break down.
- Our department assembles temporary structures (ad hoc teams, improvised workflows, or quick decision loops) to maintain momentum during periods of uncertainty or disruption.
- My manager leverages overlooked, underutilized, or cross-functional resources to close performance gaps.
- Our team breaks complex obstacles into solvable components and sequences them intelligently.
- My supervisor balances competing priorities without letting important tasks slip.
- My team responds to unexpected challenges with agility rather than hesitation.
- Managers turn challenging environments into opportunities for the team to mobilize and deliver.
- The project leader finds ways to succeed when resources or time are limited.
- The supervisor ensures that tasks are completed effectively and efficiently.
Positive AttitudePositive Attitude reflects the optimism, constructive mindset, and morale-shaping energy a person brings to challenging situations. It shows up when leaders communicate confidence in the team's ability to overcome obstacles, reframe setbacks as opportunities, and maintain a forward-looking, solutions-focused outlook even when conditions deteriorate. Individuals strong in this area help others stay engaged by focusing on possibilities rather than limitations, using encouragement, reframing, and optimism to stabilize morale and keep the environment constructive. Positive Attitude is about emotional uplift--the ability to inspire confidence, maintain hopefulness, and create a climate where people feel capable and supported during uncertainty.
- Supervisors help teammates maintain morale by focusing on possibilities rather than limitations.
- Team members support each other in reframing setbacks and staying engaged.
- My manager communicates confidence in the team's ability to overcome obstacles.
- Our manager keeps a positive outlook even when conditions are uncertain or difficult.
- Managers demonstrate calm, clear thinking when stakes are high or conditions deteriorate.
- Our manager uses optimism to create a constructive, forward-looking team environment.
- The project lead approaches challenges with a constructive, solutions-focused attitude.
- The project manager reframes unexpected changes as opportunities to improve or innovate.
- My manager models steadiness that helps stabilize the team during turbulence.
Calm and SteadyCalm and Steady reflects the composure, emotional regulation, and stabilizing presence someone brings when pressure, uncertainty, or disruption intensifies. It appears in behaviors such as staying centered during high-stress moments, maintaining professionalism when others feel overwhelmed, and providing a reliable sense of stability that the team can count on. People strong in this dimension respond to mistakes without blame, keep direction clear during turbulence, and model the steadiness that helps teams remain focused and effective under strain. Calm and Steady is about emotional stability--the ability to remain grounded, consistent, and dependable so the team feels secure and able to perform.
- Team members respond to mistakes with composure and a focus on solutions rather than blame.
- Our department stays focused and effective under pressure or uncertainty.
- Our manager provides stability for the team by being someone others can count on.
- The project manager maintains professionalism and stability even when others feel overwhelmed.
- The project lead models composure that helps steady the team during turbulence.
- My manager leads with conviction even when conditions are unfavorable or outcomes are uncertain.
- Our team maintains morale and direction during periods of uncertainty or strain.
- Employees in my department stay calm and centered during stressful or high-pressure situations.
ResilienceResilience reflects a person's ability to recover quickly, re-center, and re-establish productive momentum after disruptions, setbacks, or disappointments. It shows up when employees rapidly regain focus, leaders shift from error recognition to corrective action, and teams bounce back without losing motivation or direction. Individuals strong in Resilience turn setbacks into actionable next steps, reestablish direction after disruptions, and maintain effort even when others might lose momentum. Resilience is about rebound and forward recovery--the capacity to absorb impact, regain clarity, and keep progress moving despite unexpected challenges.
- Employees regain focus rapidly after disruptions and re-engage with the work.
- The project manager uses setbacks as fuel to refine strategies and strengthen performance.
- Leaders prevent setbacks from derailing progress by quickly establishing a new path forward.
- My supervisor turns setbacks into actionable next steps that strengthen future performance.
- My team leader demonstrates resilience by maintaining effort when others might lose momentum.
- Our department bounces back from disappointments without losing motivation or direction.
- My manager recovers quickly from disruptions and reestablishes direction.
- Managers demonstrate resilience by quickly shifting from error recognition to corrective action.
CommunicationCommunication reflects a leader's ability to keep people aligned, informed, and able to perform by sharing the right information at the right time. It shows up when managers communicate risks early, clarify expectations, provide timely feedback, realign the team when plans shift, and ensure no one is surprised by changes in direction or progress. Individuals strong in this dimension listen actively, respond to issues quickly, and maintain open channels that reinforce ownership, responsibility, and productivity. Communication is about continuous alignment--making sure people understand goals, expectations, progress, and adjustments so the team can stay coordinated and effective.
- My manager meets with me regularly to discuss job performance.
- Our manager keeps the team aligned and informed when challenges require an adjustment the plan.
- Managers communicate early and clearly when a risk or issue could affect progress.
- Supervisors communicate goals in a way that reinforce ownership and responsibility.
- The project lead listens and responds to issues and problems.
- Our manager provides timely updates on progress to ensure alignment and avoid surprises.
- My manager clarifies expectations to ensure commitments are realistic and achievable.
- Managers communicate goals and objectives to employees.
- The team leader communicates often when challenges arise and adjusts the work to stay on track.
- Leaders communicate with the team to help realign strategic direction and stay productive?
- My team leader provides me with timely feedback for improving my performance.
Goal SettingGoal Setting reflects a leader's ability to define clear, ambitious, and achievable targets that guide performance and focus effort. It appears in behaviors such as establishing long- and short-term goals, setting metrics and timelines, involving employees in defining performance expectations, and ensuring goals reflect available resources and operational realities. Individuals strong in this dimension use goals to stretch performance, drive improvement, and anchor coaching, development, and accountability practices. Goal Setting is about direction and standards--creating the targets that shape priorities, motivate effort, and define what success looks like.
- Leaders set goals that reflect available resources, timelines, and operational realities.
- Our team sets and achieves ambitious goals; makes change happen.
- Managers involve employees in setting clear, achievable performance goals.
- Coworkers in my department set high goals and strive to meet them.
- The project lead creates goals with clear metrics, timelines, and deliverables.
- My manager sets realistic goals for the team.
- My manager sets a high standard for job performance.
- Team members set goals that stretch performance while maintaining quality standards.
- My team establishes goals that encourage continuous improvement and skill development.
- My coworkers set long-term and short-term goals.
- Our manager promotes a culture where goal setting is part of routine performance practice.
Goal OrientedGoal Oriented reflects a person's ability to use goals as the primary mechanism for directing effort, shaping priorities, and sustaining performance. It shows up when leaders translate organizational priorities into specific, measurable goals, break broad objectives into actionable milestones, and revisit goals throughout the performance cycle to ensure alignment and progress. Individuals strong in this dimension refine vague goals into clear commitments, adjust goals when strategic priorities shift, and use goals to anchor coaching, development, and performance reviews. Goal Oriented is about direction and focus--ensuring that goals guide daily work, clarify expectations, and keep attention on the most critical performance areas.
- The team leader translates organizational priorities into specific, measurable goals for the team.
- Managers link goals to performance reviews, coaching conversations, and development plans.
- The supervisor revisits goals to ensure they remain relevant and achievable.
- Our manager breaks broad objectives into concrete milestones to guide day-to-day work.
- My manager adjusts goals to maintain alignment when strategic priorities shift.
- Our manager reviews goals to identify barriers and adjust plans proactively.
- My manager helps employees refine vague goals into specific, actionable commitments.
- The project lead guides employees in setting their own performance goals that support team outcomes.
- My team leader ensures individual goals align with departmental and organizational performance priorities.
- My supervisor revisits goals throughout the performance cycle to ensure progress stays on track.
- Leaders use goal setting to focus attention on critical performance areas.
CommitmentCommitment reflects a person's ability to maintain steady effort, discipline, and follow-through regardless of changing conditions, competing demands, or personal circumstances. It appears in behaviors such as meeting expectations consistently, staying engaged during long or demanding projects, fulfilling obligations as promised, and demonstrating unwavering dedication to team and departmental goals. Individuals strong in this dimension keep commitments even when conditions become difficult, maintain discipline across shifting priorities, and show the same level of engagement in both calm and challenging periods. Commitment is about reliability and persistence--the internal drive to uphold responsibilities and sustain performance over time.
- The project lead shows up with the same level of commitment and discipline regardless of personal circumstances.
- My team leader demonstrates personal commitment and engagement to the success of the team.
- My team leader is personally dedicated to achieving the department goals.
- My manager keeps commitments even when conditions become difficult.
- My supervisor meets deadlines and fulfills obligations as promised.
- My coworkers maintain a consistent level of commitment and discipline across changing work conditions.
- Coworkers in my department meet expectations with the same level of commitment, even when circumstances are challenging.
- My team maintains commitment to established goals even when competing demands arise.
- Managers ensure commitment and discipline remain steady when demands or priorities shift.
- My manager demonstrates steady effort and engagement across long, demanding projects.
Adaptability/FlexibilityAdaptability/Flexibility reflects a person's ability to adjust thinking, plans, and behaviors fluidly when conditions, information, or priorities change. It appears in behaviors such as responding to new information without resistance, shifting plans while maintaining productivity, staying open to new ideas, and signaling early when support or adjustments are needed. Individuals strong in this dimension remain composed when plans shift, take risks when appropriate, and modify approaches without losing sight of core objectives. Adaptability/Flexibility is about adjustment and openness--the willingness and ability to change course smoothly in response to evolving circumstances.
- The supervisor adjusts plans fluidly when conditions shift, without losing sight of core objectives.
- My manager is open to new ideas and willing to learn.
- My manager signals early when support or adjustments are needed to meet deadlines.
- Associates adjust quickly when plans shift, maintaining productivity and composure.
- Employees respond to new information with flexibility rather than resistance.
- The project lead is flexible, imaginative, and willing to take risks.
Time ManagementTime Management reflects a person's ability to organize work, allocate time effectively, and maintain steady progress through structure and discipline. It shows up when individuals protect focused work time, use schedules or tools to stay organized, break large assignments into manageable steps, and complete routine tasks ahead of schedule to create buffer time. People strong in this dimension plan their workday intentionally, allocate appropriate time for complex tasks, and adjust workload early to avoid last-minute rushes. Time Management is about efficient planning and execution--structuring time, tasks, and priorities so work moves forward predictably and without unnecessary stress.
- Coworkers protect focused work time by minimizing avoidable interruptions.
- Our team completes routine tasks ahead of schedule to create buffer time.
- The supervisor allocates time appropriately for complex tasks to avoid last-minute rushes.
- My manager reviews workload and adjusts plans early.
- The project manager structures the workday to maintain steady progress on key responsibilities.
- My supervisor breaks large assignments into sequenced, manageable steps with realistic timelines.
- My manager uses schedules, tools, or systems to stay organized and on track.
Processes and MethodsProcesses and Methods reflects a person's ability to build structure, consistency, and operational discipline into how work gets done. It shows up when managers monitor progress early to catch issues before they escalate, apply systematic planning to align people and resources, and establish repeatable workflows that reduce variability and ensure smooth handoffs. Individuals strong in this dimension use facts and progress indicators to track advancement toward goals, define who does what and when, and build structured review points that allow for proactive adjustments. Processes and Methods is about system design and execution--creating the frameworks, routines, and operational clarity that enable teams to deliver consistent, high-quality performance even under pressure.
- My coworkers use relevant facts to measure and track progress toward achievement of individual and team goals.
- Managers structure work to maintain high performance, even during demanding periods.
- My manager applies systematic planning to ensure people, time, and tools are aligned with priorities and used efficiently.
- My supervisor establishes repeatable processes that reduce variability and help the team deliver consistent results.
- The project manager builds structured review points into projects to assess progress, identify risks early, and adjust plans proactively.
- Our team follows structured methods and workflows used to achieve goals.
- Our department uses progress indicators to monitor advancement toward goals.
- Managers monitor progress early to catch issues before they become setbacks.
- The team leader builds the structure, focus, and momentum that allow others to excel under pressure.
- My team defines who does what, when, and how, ensuring smooth transitions and eliminating bottlenecks.
Critical Thinking and Decision MakingCritical Thinking and Decision Making reflects a person's ability to analyze information, evaluate options, and make sound, timely choices--especially in complex or high-pressure environments. It appears in behaviors such as gathering relevant data, identifying patterns, questioning assumptions, and weighing risks, impacts, and trade-offs before selecting a course of action. Individuals strong in this dimension make tough decisions quickly when information is incomplete, pivot when outcomes indicate a decision isn't working, and think ahead to anticipate downstream effects. Critical Thinking and Decision Making is about judgment and analytical rigor--the ability to diagnose situations accurately, choose wisely, and act decisively to keep work moving in the right direction.
- Team members analyze the situation and take prompt action.
- Our manager makes sound decisions quickly, even when information is incomplete or time is limited.
- My team gathers relevant information, identifies patterns, and applies analytical reasoning to reach well-supported conclusions.
- The project manager monitors outcomes, recognizes when a decision is not producing the desired results, and pivots quickly to address the situation.
- Team members question initial impressions, biases, or conventional thinking to ensure decisions are grounded in reality rather than habit.
- The team leader thinks ahead to predict downstream effects of decisions and proactively mitigates potential issues.
- My manager takes responsibility for making tough decisions.
- The supervisor considers several potential solutions, weighing risks, impacts, and trade-offs before choosing a course of action.
- My team takes decisive action when others hesitate due to pressure or risk.
- My manager makes tough decisions in difficult environments.
Self-Assessment Items
Drive and MotivationDrive and Motivation reflects the internal engine behind performance--the intensity, initiative, and forward momentum a person brings to their work. It shows up as pushing through obstacles, elevating performance when stakes rise, keeping energy high during long projects, and proactively moving tasks forward without waiting for direction. Someone strong in this area doesn't just stay on track; they accelerate when conditions get tough, inspire others to raise their game, and use pressure as fuel. It's about ambition, initiative, and the desire to excel--an active, self-propelled force that keeps work moving with urgency and enthusiasm.
- You work effectively in the department.
- You use high-pressure moments to sharpen focus and accelerate execution.
- You meet deadlines consistently, even when workload or conditions intensify.
- I manage workload with minimal oversight while maintaining high standards.
- You take action to create conditions where the team can operate at peak effectiveness?
- You encourage others to increase your job performance.
- You complete work on time even when workload increases or conditions change.
- You push through obstacles with determination rather than slowing down.
- You keep energy and enthusiasm high, even during long or demanding projects.
- I achieve results by staying disciplined and solution-focused.
- I elevate performance when the situation demands exceptional effort.
- You work independently and keep projects moving without needing constant guidance.
- You take initiative to keep tasks moving without waiting for direction.
Strong Work EthicStrong Work Ethic is about reliability, steadiness, and disciplined follow-through. It emphasizes consistency over intensity--showing up prepared, maintaining quality even under strain, staying productive across slow or chaotic periods, and meeting commitments without reminders. This dimension is less about acceleration and more about dependability: doing what needs to be done, every time, regardless of distractions, fatigue, or competing demands. It reflects professionalism, responsibility, and sustained effort over time.
- You maintain steady productivity across busy, slow, or unpredictable periods.
- I demonstrate steadiness and reliability when timelines tighten.
- You maintain high quality even when deadlines are tight or conditions difficult.
- You show up prepared and ready to work every day, regardless of circumstances.
- I follow through on responsibilities from start to finish with minimal oversight.
- I demonstrate disciplined work habits that sustain high performance.
- You follow through reliably without needing reminders or close supervision.
- You demonstrate consistent effort regardless of external pressures.
- I consistently complete tasks on time and meet commitments without reminders.
- I deliver work as promised, even when juggling multiple priorities.
- You remain dependable and steady even when facing personal stress, fatigue, or competing demands.
- You remain reliable and steady during high-pressure periods or unexpected disruptions.
- You show persistence and determination when progress is slow or obstacles arise.
High StandardsHigh Standards centers on the quality bar a person sets for themselves and others. It's about defining what excellent performance looks like, establishing clear expectations, and consistently producing work that meets or exceeds those expectations--even under pressure, shifting priorities, or ambiguity. Someone strong in this area pays close attention to detail, delivers work that rarely needs rework, and maintains the same level of rigor in both calm and crisis. High Standards is fundamentally about the level of performance: setting ambitious goals, upholding precision, and ensuring that outcomes reflect a commitment to excellence.
- You maintain high standards even when facing tight deadlines or shifting priorities.
- I set and establish performance goals.
- You set performance objectives and standards.
- You demonstrate consistent reliability that others can count on.
- You consistently deliver high-quality work regardless of challenges.
- I deliver consistent, high-quality results even when operating under intense deadlines or constraints.
- You hold yourself to the same performance standards you expect from others.
- You sustain performance expectations despite uncertainty, ambiguity, or rapidly shifting priorities.
- I establish performance expectations that can be objectively evaluated.
- You hold employees to the same standards in crisis as in calm periods.
- You produce work that requires little to no rework due to strong personal standards.
- I define clear performance targets so employees understand what success looks like.
- You set standards for performance.
- You pay attention to detail and ensure accuracy before submitting work.
Overcomes ResistanceOvercomes Resistance is about removing barriers and enabling forward movement by actively navigating constraints, rethinking strategies, and transforming challenges into workable solutions. It reflects adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving under pressure--spotting obstacles early, clarifying direction, and using resourcefulness to keep the team or project operating at peak effectiveness. This competency is fundamentally about clearing the path: turning difficult conditions into catalysts for action, adjusting approaches when needed, and ensuring progress continues despite situational limitations.
- I enable the team to operate at peak effectiveness by removing obstacles and clarifying direction.
- I overcome situational constraints and challenges.
- I navigate constraints to achieve strong results.
- You turn challenges into workable solutions.
- You work effectively despite obstacles or limitations.
- You use creativity and resourcefulness to overcome roadblocks.
- I identify barriers quickly and adapt strategies to move forward.
- You turn difficult conditions into catalysts for decisive action and forward movement.
- You rethink your approach when faced with constraints.
- You identify and eliminate barriers that slow the team down.
- You maintain progress by rethinking approaches when faced with constraints.
ProactiveProactive behavior is about anticipating what needs to happen next and taking early, self-directed action to keep work on track. It focuses on looking ahead--spotting potential delays, preparing for upcoming deadlines, sequencing work logically, and addressing emerging issues before they become problems. Someone strong in this area builds buffer time, identifies high-value tasks, and mitigates obstacles early so goals are met smoothly. Proactivity is fundamentally about forward-thinking ownership: acting before being asked, preventing problems rather than reacting to them, and ensuring momentum by staying several steps ahead.
- You build safeguards into plans so unexpected issues don't slow the team down.
- You identify what needs to be done and take action without waiting to be asked.
- I identify high-value tasks and focus attention on what matters most.
- You build in buffer time to manage unexpected issues without compromising quality.
- I prepare in advance for upcoming deadlines, meetings, or deliverables.
- I anticipate risks and prepare the team to stay on track.
- You proactively anticipate barriers to meet goals and take early action to prevent delays.
- You sequence work logically to ensure critical deadlines are met.
- I anticipate next steps and prepare for them proactively.
- I ensure goals are met by proactively addressing emerging issues.
- I sustain performance by anticipating and mitigating obstacles.
- You identify potential delays early and adjust plans to stay on schedule.
PerseverancePerseverance is about sustained effort and determination over time--continuing to deliver results even when conditions are tedious, volatile, or discouraging. It emphasizes endurance, focus, and steady productivity through setbacks, interruptions, shifting priorities, or high-demand periods. While Overcomes Resistance is about removing obstacles, Perseverance is about pushing through them with consistency and resilience. It reflects the ability to maintain expectations, keep momentum, and stay productive when others might slow down or lose focus.
- You remain productive by adjusting plans when circumstances shift.
- I respond constructively to unexpected issues and keep momentum.
- I keep work moving forward despite interruptions or shifting priorities.
- I persevere through setbacks to maintain performance.
- I perform consistently in environments where others may falter.
- You keep the organization moving forward even when external conditions are volatile.
- You stay focused and efficient during high-demand periods.
- You persist through setbacks without lowering expectations.
- I demonstrate determination and follow-through despite competing demands.
- You deliver outcomes even when conditions are difficult.
- You stay focused and productive even when tasks are tedious or challenging.
Understands the JobUnderstands the Job reflects a person's mastery of their current role--their ability to perform the job effectively, organize work, plan resources, and navigate the organization to get things done. It's about knowing the responsibilities, understanding how to execute them well, and demonstrating strong overall performance rooted in skill, knowledge, and situational awareness. Someone strong in this area learns quickly, grasps all aspects of the role, and consistently applies that understanding to deliver solid results. This competency is fundamentally about role proficiency: knowing what the job requires and performing it with confidence and competence.
- You are effective in performing your job.
- You are able to organize your work.
- You have great overall performance.
- You work well in this position.
- You effectively organize resources and plans.
- I acquire relevant job knowledge easily.
- I understand how to do the job well.
- You understand all aspects of the job.
- You display organizational savvy; knows who to contact in order to get things done.
- You are able to learn important aspects of the job quickly.
DelegatesDelegates is about distributing work effectively across a team to maximize capability, ownership, and performance. It focuses on assigning responsibilities that match people's strengths, ensuring each person has clear accountability, and reallocating tasks as priorities shift. Delegation is less about anticipating tasks and more about structuring the workload: deciding who should own which outcomes, empowering others with meaningful responsibilities, and building team capacity by assigning higher-impact tasks that develop judgment and independence. It's a leadership behavior rooted in trust, clarity, and strategic workload management.
- You assign responsibilities that ensure critical tasks are handled by the most capable individuals.
- I provide employees with ownership of work streams that require sustained accountability.
- I delegate higher-impact tasks to build confidence, judgment, and independence.
- You balance workload by reallocating responsibilities when priorities shift.
- You distribute responsibilities in a way that maximize team strengths and capacity.
- I assign specific responsibilities to individuals on the team.
- You assign responsibilities that directly support departmental goals and performance metrics.
- You ensure each team member have clear ownership of specific outcomes.
Increases ResponsibilitiesIncreases Responsibilities is about expanding beyond the current role--either by taking on more responsibility personally or by assigning greater responsibility to others when in a leadership position. It focuses on growth, development, and readiness for more complex or strategic work. This competency includes recognizing when someone is ready for stretch assignments, encouraging employees to take on more challenging tasks, and using increased responsibility as a tool for development and future leadership preparation. It's fundamentally about progression and capacity building: identifying potential, elevating contributions, and creating opportunities for people to grow beyond their current scope.
- You support employees who volunteer for challenging assignments or new roles.
- I recognize when employees are ready for expanded duties and act on it promptly.
- I gradually increase the complexity of assignments as employees demonstrate readiness.
- You encourage others to take on greater responsibility.
- You recognize and reward employees who take initiative to expand their contributions.
- You assign responsibilities that challenge employees to elevate their performance.
- I adjust responsibility levels based on demonstrated reliability and performance trends.
- You promote a culture where employees seek out additional responsibilities proactively.
- You use increased responsibility to prepare employees for future leadership roles.
- You encourage employees to take on responsibilities that strengthen weak performance areas.
- I identify high performers and entrust them with more visible or strategic work.
- You select individuals for responsibilities that align with their long-term development path.
- I assign stretch tasks that help employees grow beyond their current role.
- You provide opportunities for employees to demonstrate capability in new or demanding areas.
AccountabilityAccountability focuses on ownership of actions, decisions, and outcomes. It's less about the bar that's set and more about taking responsibility for meeting it. This includes acknowledging mistakes transparently, taking responsibility for both the process and the result, and holding others to their commitments as well. Accountability shows up in confronting underperformance, ensuring each person contributes to shared goals, and owning errors without excuses or deflection. It reflects integrity, responsibility, and follow-through.
- You take personal responsibility for the quality and timeliness of your work.
- You expect members of the department to each contribute to the attainment of goals.
- You hold employees accountable for outcomes, not just effort.
- You take full responsibility for errors without deflecting or minimizing the impact.
- You acknowledge mistakes promptly and transparently, even when the consequences are significant.
- I own both the outcome and the process that lead to the mistake.
- You reward achievers and confront sub par performance.
- You hold individuals accountable for the responsibilities they've been entrust with.
Continuous ImprovementContinuous Improvement is about learning, reflection, and evolution over time. It focuses on analyzing successes and failures, identifying root causes, and applying lessons to improve future performance. Someone strong in this area actively seeks insights, integrates feedback, adjusts workflows, and implements safeguards to prevent repeat issues. The emphasis is on curiosity, humility, and deliberate growth--using mistakes as catalysts for better habits, stronger processes, and higher-quality outcomes. Continuous Improvement is fundamentally about getting better every cycle, and it aligns naturally with concepts like learning agility and root-cause analysis.
- You shown significant improvement in job performance.
- I integrate feedback and insights from errors into future work practices.
- I openly share lessons learn to help others avoid similar mistakes.
- You make after-action reviews a consistent practice.
- I model humility and continuous improvement for peer and team members.
- I normalize constructive reflection by discussing what was learned, not just what went wrong.
- You apply lessons learned to prevent recurrence of the same issue.
- I review decisions and actions critically to identify improvement opportunities.
- I actively seek lessons in both successes and failures.
- You analyze missteps to determine what could be done differently next time.
- You reflect on difficult experiences to extract insights and improve future performance.
- You approach problems with curiosity rather than frustration.
- You use mistakes as catalysts for skill development and performance improvement.
- You adjust workflows or decision-making approaches based on what was learned.
- You use insights from past errors to anticipate and avoid similar challenges.
- I implement new safeguards, processes, or habits to reduce the likelihood of repeating mistakes.
- I examine what went wrong to understand root causes rather than symptoms.
ResourcefulResourceful is about finding effective ways to succeed in the moment, especially when resources, time, or structure are limited. It emphasizes agility, creativity, and problem-solving under pressure--breaking complex obstacles into manageable parts, reallocating resources, improvising workflows, and leveraging overlooked assets to keep work moving. While Continuous Improvement is about long-term growth, Resourcefulness is about real-time adaptability: responding quickly to disruptions, maintaining momentum in uncertainty, and turning challenging environments into opportunities for action. This competency connects closely to ideas like creative problem-solving and adaptive execution.
- I leverage overlooked, underutilized, or cross-functional resources to close performance gaps.
- You balance competing priorities without letting important tasks slip.
- I identify unconventional but effective methods to keep work on track when standard processes break down.
- I ensure that tasks are complete effectively and efficiently.
- I reallocate resources and priorities to maintain progress during disruption.
- I break complex obstacles into solvable components and sequence them intelligently.
- I turn challenging environments into opportunities for the team to mobilize and deliver.
- You find ways to succeed when resources or time are limited.
- You respond to unexpected challenges with agility rather than hesitation.
- You rapidly assemble temporary structure (ad hoc teams, improvise workflows, or quick decision loops) to maintain momentum during periods of uncertainty or disruption.
Positive AttitudePositive Attitude is about the emotional tone and mindset a person brings to challenges. It emphasizes optimism, encouragement, and a solutions-focused outlook that lifts team morale. Someone strong in this area reframes setbacks as opportunities, helps others stay engaged, and communicates confidence even when conditions are uncertain. Positive Attitude is fundamentally about shaping the emotional climate: using optimism to keep people motivated, forward-looking, and open to possibilities.
- You reframe unexpected changes as opportunities to improve or innovate.
- You support others in reframing setbacks and staying engaged.
- You communicate confidence in the team's ability to overcome obstacles.
- I model steadiness that helps stabilize the team during turbulence.
- You keep a positive outlook even when conditions are uncertain or difficult.
- You demonstrate calm, clear thinking when stakes are high or conditions deteriorate.
- I use optimism to create a constructive, forward-looking team environment.
- I approach challenges with a constructive, solutions-focused attitude.
- I help teammates maintain morale by focus on possibilities rather than limitations.
Calm and SteadyCalm and Steady is about emotional regulation and composure under pressure. It focuses on stability, professionalism, and the ability to remain centered when others feel overwhelmed. Someone strong in this competency provides a grounding presence--responding to mistakes without blame, maintaining direction during uncertainty, and staying effective when stakes rise. Calm and Steady is fundamentally about emotional consistency: being the person others can count on to remain clear-headed, reliable, and unshaken.
- I respond to mistake with composure and a focus on solutions rather than blame.
- I maintain team morale and direction during periods of uncertainty or strain.
- You maintain professionalism and stability even when others feel overwhelmed.
- I lead with conviction even when conditions are unfavorable or outcomes uncertain.
- You model composure that helps steady the team during turbulence.
- You stay calm and center during stressful or high-pressure situations.
- I stay focused and effective under pressure or uncertainty.
- You provide stability for the team and is someone others can count on.
ResilienceResilience is about recovering quickly and staying motivated after setbacks. It focuses on how someone responds when things go wrong--bouncing back, regaining direction, and turning disruptions into actionable next steps. A resilient person doesn't just endure difficulty; they re-engage with purpose, maintain momentum when others might stall, and use setbacks as fuel to refine strategies and strengthen performance. The emphasis is on rebound speed and sustained drive, making this closely connected to ideas like performance recovery and learning from setbacks.
- You demonstrate resilience by quickly shifting from error recognition to corrective action.
- You regain focus rapidly after disruptions and re-engage with the work.
- I bounce back from disappointments without losing motivation or direction.
- You turn setbacks into actionable next steps that strengthen future performance.
- I use setbacks as fuel to refine strategies and strengthen performance.
- You recover quickly from disruptions and reestablish direction.
- You demonstrate resilience by maintaining effort when others might lose momentum.
- I prevent setbacks from derailing progress by quickly establishing a new path forward.
CommunicationCommunication is about how information flows--clarifying expectations, sharing goals, providing updates, and ensuring alignment through timely, two-way dialogue. It focuses on listening to issues, giving feedback, meeting regularly to discuss performance, and proactively signaling challenges before they become problems. Someone strong in this area keeps others informed, reinforces ownership through clear messaging, and prevents surprises by maintaining open, consistent communication channels. Communication is fundamentally about creating clarity and connection, which ties naturally to ideas like expectation setting and feedback loops.
- You listen and respond to issues and problems.
- I communicate goals in a way that reinforce ownership and responsibility.
- You communicate with the team to help realign strategic direction and stay productive?
- You provide timely updates on progress to ensure alignment and avoid surprises.
- You communicate goals and objectives to employees.
- You proactively communicate when challenges arise and adjust to stay on track.
- I clarify expectations to ensure commitments are realistic and achievable.
- I keep the team align and inform when challenges require an adjustment the plan.
- You communicate early and clearly when a risk or issue can affect progress.
- You meet regularly to discuss job performance.
- You consistently provide others with timely feedback for improving their performance.
Goal SettingGoal Setting is about defining the targets themselves--creating clear, realistic, and measurable goals that set the standard for performance. It focuses on establishing both short- and long-term objectives, building in metrics and timelines, and ensuring goals stretch performance while still aligning with available resources and operational realities. Someone strong in this area promotes a culture where goal creation is routine, sets ambitious expectations, and uses well-structured goals to drive continuous improvement. This competency is fundamentally about designing the destination, which connects naturally to ideas like performance metrics and strategic goal design.
- You set a high standard for job performance.
- I establish goals that encourage continuous improvement and skill development.
- I promote a culture where goal setting is part of routine performance practice.
- You set long-term and short-term goals.
- You set high goals and strive to meet them.
- You are able to establish strategic and stretch goals.
- I set goals that reflect available resources, timelines, and operational realities.
- You create goals with clear metrics, timelines, and deliverables.
- You involve employees in setting clear, achievable performance goals.
- You set goals that stretch performance while maintaining quality standards.
- You set and achieve ambitious goals; makes change happen.
Goal OrientedGoal Oriented is about executing toward those goals and keeping them aligned over time. It emphasizes breaking broad objectives into actionable milestones, revisiting goals throughout the performance cycle, and adjusting them when strategic priorities shift. Someone strong in this area ensures individual and team goals stay connected to organizational priorities, helps refine vague goals into specific commitments, and proactively identifies barriers to maintain progress. This competency is fundamentally about driving the journey toward the destination, making it closely related to concepts like milestone planning and goal alignment.
- You adjust goals to maintain alignment when strategic priorities shift.
- You revisit goals throughout the performance cycle to ensure progress stay on track.
- You review goals to identify barriers and adjust plans proactively.
- I use goal set to focus attention on critical performance areas.
- I break broad objectives into concrete milestones to guide day-to-day work.
- I help employees refine vague goals into specific, actionable commitments.
- I guide employees in setting their own performance goals that support team outcomes.
- I translate organizational priorities into specific, measurable goals for the team.
- I link goals to performance reviews, coaching conversations, and development plans.
- You ensure individual goals align with departmental and organizational performance priorities.
- You regularly revisit goals to ensure they remain relevant and achievable.
CommitmentCommitment is about follow-through, dedication, and reliability. It reflects a person's willingness to meet deadlines, honor obligations, and stay fully engaged even when conditions are difficult or demands compete. Someone strong in this area shows steady effort across long projects, remains dedicated to team and departmental goals, and maintains discipline regardless of personal circumstances. Commitment is fundamentally about showing up with consistency and purpose, making it closely aligned with concepts like follow-through and team dedication.
- I demonstrate steady effort and engagement across long, demanding projects.
- You maintain commitment to establish goals even when competing demands arise.
- I ensure commitment and discipline remain steady when demands or priorities shift.
- I maintain a consistent level of commitment and discipline across changing work conditions.
- I demonstrate personal commitment and engagement to the success of the team.
- I keep commitments even when conditions become difficult.
- You meet expectations with the same level of commitment, even when circumstances are challenging.
- You consistently meet deadlines and fulfill obligations as promised.
- I show up with the same level of commitment and discipline regardless of personal circumstances.
- You are personally dedicated to achieve the department goals.
Adaptability/FlexibilityAdaptability/Flexibility is about adjusting effectively when conditions, information, or priorities change. It emphasizes openness to new ideas, willingness to shift plans, and the ability to stay productive and composed when the environment is fluid. Someone strong in this area responds to new information without resistance, modifies their approach to stay aligned with core objectives, and signals early when support or adjustments are needed. Adaptability is fundamentally about fluid adjustment, making it closely aligned with concepts like flexible thinking and agile response.
- You signal early when support or adjustments are need to meet deadlines.
- You are flexible, imaginative, and willing to take risks.
- I respond to new information with flexibility rather than resistance.
- I adjust quickly when plans shift, maintaining productivity and composure.
- You adjust plans fluidly when conditions shift, without losing sight of core objectives.
- I am open to new ideas and willing to learn.
Time ManagementTime Management is about how an individual structures and protects their time to maintain steady progress on work. It focuses on breaking large tasks into manageable steps, sequencing work realistically, reviewing workload early, and using tools or systems to stay organized. Someone strong in this area builds buffer time, avoids last-minute rushes, and minimizes interruptions to preserve focus. Time Management is fundamentally about personal workflow discipline--ensuring that hours, days, and weeks are planned in a way that supports consistent execution.
- You regularly review workload and adjust plans early.
- I protect focused work time by minimizing avoidable interruptions.
- You allocate time appropriately for complex tasks to avoid last-minute rushes.
- You structure the workday to maintain steady progress on key responsibilities.
- I complete routine tasks ahead of schedule to create buffer time.
- You use schedules, tools, or systems to stay organized and on track.
- You break large assignments into sequenced, manageable steps with realistic timelines.
Processes and MethodsProcesses and Methods is about the structured systems and frameworks used to achieve goals--not just for oneself, but often for the team. It emphasizes following established workflows, using progress indicators, and building the structure and momentum that help others excel under pressure. Someone strong in this area relies on facts and metrics to track progress, reinforces consistent methods, and creates clarity around how work should be executed. Processes and Methods is fundamentally about operational structure--the repeatable approaches that guide performance across individuals or teams.
- I build structured review points into projects to assess progress, identify risks early, and adjust plans proactively.
- I structure work to maintain high performance, even during demanding periods.
- You use relevant facts to measure and track progress toward achievement of individual and team goals.
- You build the structure, focus, and momentum that allow others to excel under pressure.
- You monitor progress early to catch issues before they become setbacks.
- I establish repeatable processes that reduce variability and help the team deliver consistent results.
- I follow structured methods and workflows use to achieve goals.
- I apply systematic planning to ensure people, time, and tools are aligned with priorities and used efficiently.
- You use progress indicators to monitor advancement toward goals.
- I define who does what, when, and how, ensure smooth transitions and eliminate bottlenecks.
Critical Thinking and Decision MakingCritical Thinking and Decision Making is about how a person analyzes situations and takes action, especially when pressure, ambiguity, or risk are high. It emphasizes making sound decisions quickly, taking responsibility for tough calls, and acting decisively when others hesitate. Someone strong in this area evaluates incomplete information, weighs risks, and chooses a path forward without getting stuck in uncertainty. This competency is fundamentally about clarity and decisiveness under pressure, which connects naturally to ideas like rapid decision analysis and risk-aware judgment.
- You think ahead to predict downstream effects of decisions and proactively mitigate potential issues.
- I gather relevant information, identify patterns, and apply analytical reasoning to reach well-supported conclusions.
- I question initial impressions, biases, or conventional thinking to ensure decisions are ground in reality rather than habit.
- You make sound decisions quickly, even when information is incomplete or time is limited.
- You take responsibility for making tough decisions.
- You make tough decisions in difficult environments.
- I take decisive action when others hesitate due to pressure or risk.
- I monitor outcomes, recognize when a decision is not producing the desired results, and pivot quickly to address the situation.
- You consider several potential solutions, weighing risks, impacts, and trade-offs before choosing a course of action.
- I analyze the situation and take prompt action.
Job Interview Questions
These questions will help you in the interview to identify candidates that have high "performance" skills. These are people who expand business opportunities.
Drive and Motivation
- Give an example of how you completed work on time even when workload increased or conditions changed.
- Did you take initiative to keep tasks moving without waiting for direction?
- Describe a situation that shows how you stayed disciplined and solution-focused to achieve important results.
- Share an example from your previous position, which shows how you worked effectively in the department.
- How did you keep energy and enthusiasm high, even during long or demanding projects?
- In your previous position, how did you manage workload with minimal oversight while maintaining high standards?
- What steps would you take to meet deadlines consistently, even when workload or conditions intensify?
- Explain how you worked independently and keep projects moving without needing constant guidance.
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you used high-pressure moments to sharpen focus and accelerate execution.
- Give an example of how you encouraged others to increase their job performance.
- Give an example of how you pushed through obstacles.
- What actions would you take to create conditions where the team can operate at peak effectiveness?
- What steps would you take to elevate performance when the situation demands exceptional effort?
Strong Work Ethic
- Are you able to remain reliable and steady during high-pressure periods or unexpected disruptions?
- Did you maintain high quality even when deadlines were tight or conditions difficult?
- Tell me about a time when a deadline suddenly tightened and you had to stay steady and dependable to deliver.
- Tell me about a recent project where you took responsibility and followed through from start to finish without needing reminders or close supervision.
- Do you consistently complete tasks on time and meet commitments without reminders?
- What steps would you take to demonstrate consistent effort regardless of external pressures?
- Did you deliver work as promised, even when juggling multiple priorities?
- Tell me about a time when you showed persistence and determination when progress was slow or obstacles arose.
- Walk me through the routines or habits you rely on to show up prepared and ready to perform each day, even when circumstances are challenging.
- How do you maintain steady productivity across busy, slow, or unpredictable periods?
- Describe a situation where you were responsible for delivering an outcome with minimal guidance. What did you do to ensure success?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you remained dependable and steady even when facing personal stress, fatigue, or competing demands.
- Can you share an example of a moment when others relied on you to deliver despite a sudden time crunch?
- Can you walk me through the routines or behaviors you rely on to consistently perform at a high level?
- Can you share an example of a time when your work habits directly contributed to exceptional results?
High Standards
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you paid attention to detail and ensure accuracy before submitting work.
- Tell me about a time when you held yourself to the same performance standards you expect from others.
- Describe your approach to setting standards for performance.
- How do you set performance objectives and standards?
- If you were hired, how would you establish clear performance expectations so your team knows exactly what success looks like?
- Are you able to demonstrate consistent reliability that others can count on?
- Give an example of how you have delivered consistent, high-quality results even when operating under intense deadlines or constraints.
- How do you set and establish performance goals?
- As a new manager, how would you sustain performance expectations despite uncertainty, ambiguity, or rapidly shifting priorities?
- Describe how you established performance expectations that could be objectively evaluated.
- How would you consistently deliver high-quality work regardless of challenges?
- How do your personal standards help you deliver work that's accurate and complete on the first pass, with little need for rework?
- Walk me through a time when you upheld high standards despite tight deadlines or rapidly changing priorities.
- Share your thoughts on holding employees to the same standards in crisis as in calm periods.
Overcomes Resistance
- How would you turn challenges into workable solutions?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you worked effectively despite obstacles or limitations.
- Give an example of how you used creativity and resourcefulness to overcome roadblocks.
- Walk me through how you identify and eliminate barriers that slow your team down.
- Did you rethink your approach when faced with emerging constraints?
- Explain how you turned difficult conditions into catalysts for decisive action and forward movement?
- Describe how you overcame situational constraints and challenges.
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you navigated constraints to achieve strong results.
- How would you identify and remove obstacles while clarifying direction so your team can perform at its best?
- Give an example of how you identified barriers quickly and adapted strategies to move forward.
- How would you rethink approaches when faced with constraints?
Proactive
- Walk me through an incident in which you built safeguards into plans so unexpected issues didn't slow the team down?
- As a new manager, how would you sequence work logically to ensure critical deadlines are met?
- In your previous position, did you identify what needed to be done and take action without waiting to be asked?
- What steps would you take to identify high-value tasks and focus attention on what matters most?
- Give an example of how you have built in buffer time to manage unexpected issues without compromising quality.
- Give an example of how you prepared in advance for upcoming deadlines, meetings, or deliverables.
- Describe how you proactively anticipated barriers to meet goals and took early action to prevent delays.
- Tell me about a time when you anticipated what was needed next and took proactive steps to stay ahead in your work.
- How did you address emerging issues to ensure goals were met?
- What steps would you take to anticipate risks and prepare the team to stay on track?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you identified potential delays early and adjusted plans to stay on schedule.
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you sustained performance by anticipating and mitigating obstacles.
Perseverance
- What steps would you take to stay focused and productive even when tasks are tedious or challenging?
- What steps would you take to persevere through setbacks to maintain performance?
- Tell me about a time when you remained productive even when circumstances shifted.
- Give an example of how you have delivered outcomes even when conditions were difficult.
- How would you keep the organization moving forward even when external conditions are volatile?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you demonstrated determination and follow-through despite competing demands.
- Did you respond constructively to unexpected issues and keep momentum?
- Do you persist through setbacks without lowering expectations?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you performed consistently in environments where others may falter.
- How do you stay focused and efficient during high-demand periods?
- Give an example of how you kept work moving forward despite interruptions or shifting priorities.
Understands the Job
- Share an example from your previous position, which demonstrates you had great overall performance.
- Are you able to learn important aspects of the job quickly?
- How do you organize your work?
- How do you acquire relevant job knowledge?
- How do you organize resources and plans?
- Describe how effective you are in performing your job.
- Did you understand how to do the job well?
- Did you work well in this position?
- What steps would you take to knows who to contact in order to get things done?
- In your previous position, did you understand all aspects of the job?
Delegates
- What steps would you take to distribute responsibilities in a way that maximize team strengths and capacity?
- Describe your approach to assigning responsibilities that directly support departmental goals and performance metrics.
- Did you ensure each team member had clear ownership of specific outcomes?
- How did you rebalance workload when priorities shifted?
- Give an example of how you provided employees with ownership of work streams that required sustained accountability.
- Would you delegate higher-impact tasks to build confidence, judgment, and independence?
- How would you assign specific responsibilities to individuals on the team?
- In your previous position, did you assign responsibilities that ensured critical tasks were handled by the most capable individuals?
Increases Responsibilities
- Did you gradually increase the complexity of assignments as employees demonstrated their readiness?
- How have you encouraged others to take on greater responsibility?
- Have you provided opportunities for employees to demonstrate capability in new or demanding areas?
- Give an example of how you assigned responsibilities that challenged employees to elevate their performance.
- Give an example of how you recognized when employees were ready for expanded duties and acted on it promptly.
- Have you recognized and reward employees who took initiative to expand their contributions?
- Did you adjust responsibility levels of team members based on their demonstrated reliability and performance trends?
- Did you assign stretch tasks that helped employees grow beyond their current role? Explain.
- Did you identify high performers and entrust them with more visible or strategic work?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you selected individuals for responsibilities that aligned with their long-term development path.
- How did you use increased responsibilities to prepare employees for future leadership roles?
- Explain how you encouraged employees to take on responsibilities that strengthened weak performance areas.
- How did you support employees who volunteered for challenging assignments or new roles?
- Did you promote a culture where employees sought out additional responsibilities proactively?
Accountability
- How do you reward achievers and confront sub par performance?
- Did you acknowledge mistakes promptly and transparently, even when the consequences were significant?
- Give an example of how you have taken personal responsibility for the quality and timeliness of your work.
- Can you give an example of when your manager relied on you to run something independently and you followed through fully?
- Give an example of how you held employees accountable for outcomes, not just the effort.
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you held individuals accountable for the responsibilities they've been entrusted with.
- No one is perfect and sometimes mistakes are made. Give an example that demonstrates your level of accountability for something that went wrong. Show how you owned both the outcome and the process that lead to the mistake.
- Did you take full responsibility for errors without deflecting or minimizing the impact?
- How did you communicate expectations so your team clearly understood what they needed to do to help achieve department goals.
Continuous Improvement
- Were you able to analyze missteps to determine what could be done differently next time?
- In what ways have you shown improvement in job performance?
- Give an example of how you adjusted workflows or decision-making approaches based on what was learned from a recent critical incident.
- How did you make constructive reflection a normal part of your team's response to critical incidents?
- Walk me through the steps you took to make after-action reviews a consistent practice on your team.
- How did you review decisions and actions critically to identify improvement opportunities?
- What steps would you take to implement new safeguards, processes, or habits to reduce the likelihood of repeating mistakes?
- Describe how you used insights from past errors to anticipate and avoid similar challenges.
- Have you used mistakes as catalysts for skill development and performance improvement?
- Did you model humility and continuous improvement for peer and team members?
- Did you reflect on difficult experiences to extract insights and improve future performance?
- Give an example of how you have applied lessons learned to prevent recurrence of the same issue.
- Tell me about a recent incident at work. Describe how you examined what went wrong to understand root causes rather than symptoms.
- Do you approach problems with curiosity rather than frustration?
- What steps would you take to openly share lessons learn to help others avoid similar mistakes?
- Learning from mistakes is an important part of improving performance. Give an example of how you would actively seek lessons in both your successes and failures.
- Give an example of how you integrated feedback and insights from errors into your future work practices.
Resourceful
- Describe how you would turn challenging environments into opportunities for the team to mobilize and deliver.
- In your previous position, how did you ensure that tasks were completed effectively and efficiently?
- Describe how you leveraged overlooked, underutilized, or cross-functional resources to close performance gaps.
- Explain how you were resourceful in maintaining momentum during periods of uncertainty or disruption.
- Did you identify unconventional but effective methods to keep work on track when standard processes broke down?
- Describe how you balanced competing priorities without letting important tasks slip.
- Give an example of how you reallocated resources and priorities to maintain progress during disruption.
- How do you break complex obstacles into solvable components and sequence them?
- How did you find ways to succeed when resources or time were limited?
- How did you utilize resources to respond to unexpected challenges?
Positive Attitude
- Explain how you have approached challenges with a constructive, solutions-focused attitude.
- Did you demonstrate calm, clear thinking when stakes were high or conditions deteriorated?
- Explain how you reframed unexpected changes as opportunities to improve or innovate.
- Explain how you were able to support others in reframing setbacks and staying engaged.
- Walk me through an incident in which you have helped teammates maintain a positive morale through focusing on the possibilities rather than limitations?
- Give an example of how you modeled steadiness that helped stabilize the team during turbulence.
- Does your optimism create a constructive, forward-looking team environment? How?
- Give an example of how you communicated confidence in the team's ability to overcome obstacles.
- Do you keep a positive outlook even when conditions are uncertain or difficult?
Calm and Steady
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you maintained professionalism and stability even when others feel overwhelmed.
- Tell me about a time when you stayed calm and centered during stressful or high-pressure situations.
- Are you able to maintain team morale and direction during periods of uncertainty or strain?
- Describe how you led with conviction even when conditions were unfavorable or outcomes uncertain.
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you modeled composure that helped steady the team during a turbulent situation.
- Give an example that shows how you would stay focused and effective under pressure or uncertainty.
- Describe how you would provide stability for the team and be someone that others can count on.
- Walk me through how you have responded to mistakes with composure and a focus on solutions rather than blame?
Resilience
- What steps would you take to turn setbacks into actionable next steps that strengthen future performance?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you demonstrated resilience by quickly shifting from error recognition to corrective action.
- Tell me about a time when you bounced back from disappointments without losing motivation or direction.
- Walk me through an incident in which you regained focus rapidly after disruptions and re-engage with the work?
- Have you used setbacks as fuel to refine strategies and strengthen your performance?
- Tell me about a time when you recovered quickly from disruptions and reestablished direction.
- What steps would you take to prevent setbacks from derailing progress?
- Give an example that show how you demonstrated resilience by maintaining effort when others would lose momentum.
Communication
- Give an example of how you clarified expectations to ensure commitments were realistic and achievable.
- How do you keep your team informed when challenges emerge so no one is caught off guard?
- Give an example of how you have provided timely updates on progress to ensure alignment and avoid surprises.
- How would you communicate goals in a way that reinforces employee ownership and responsibility?
- How do you keep the team aligned and informed when challenges require you to adjust the plan?
- Did you communicate goals and objectives to employees?
- When plans start to shift, how do you help the team realign and stay productive?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you listened and responded to issues and problems.
- Describe how you communicate early and clearly when you see risks that could affect progress.
- Walk me through an incident in which you met with an employee (or team) to discuss job performance?
- Describe how you consistently provided others with timely feedback for improving their performance.
Goal Setting
- How did you promote a culture where goal setting was part of routine performance practice?
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you created goals with clear metrics, timelines, and deliverables.
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you set a high standard for job performance.
- Tell me about a time when you set goals that stretched your performance while maintaining quality standards.
- How would you involve employees in setting clear, achievable performance goals?
- Did you establish goals that encouraged continuous improvement and skill development?
- What steps would you take to establish strategic and stretch goals?
- How do you set goals that reflect available resources, timelines, and operational realities?
- Tell me about a time when you set high goals and strive to meet them.
- Did you set long-term and short-term goals?
- Walk me through an incident in which you have set and achieved ambitious goals?
Goal Oriented
- Did you use goal set to focus attention on critical performance areas?
- Explain how you helped employees refine vague goals into specific, actionable commitments.
- Walk me through an incident in which you broke broad objectives into concrete milestones to guide day-to-day work?
- Did you review goals to identify barriers and adjust plans proactively? Give some examples.
- How do you guide employees in setting their own performance goals to support team outcomes?
- Tell me about a time when you linked goals to performance reviews, coaching conversations, and development plans.
- Walk me through how you have ensured individual goals aligned with departmental and organizational performance priorities?
- Did you revisit goals to ensure they remained relevant and achievable?
- Give an example of how you translated organizational priorities into specific, measurable goals for the team.
- In your previous position, did you revisit goals throughout the performance cycle to ensure progress stayed on track?
- Describe how you adjusted goals to maintain alignment when strategic priorities shifted.
Commitment
- Describe how you demonstrated personal commitment and engagement to the success of the team.
- Describe an incident which demonstrates how you are personally dedicated to achieving the department goals.
- How do you make sure you meet expectations with the same level of commitment, even when circumstances are challenging?
- How do you maintain a consistent level of commitment and discipline across changing work conditions?
- How do you maintain a consistent level of commitment and discipline across changing work conditions?
- How do you maintain steady effort and engagement across long, demanding projects?
- How do you ensure your commitment and discipline remain steady when demands or priorities shift?
- Do you maintain commitment to establish goals even when competing demands arise?
- What steps would you take to consistently meet deadlines and fulfill obligations as promised?
- Walk me through an incident in which you made extra efforts to keep commitments even when conditions became difficult?
Adaptability/Flexibility
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you needed support or had to make adjustments in order to meet deadlines.
- Give an example which shows how you are open to new ideas and willing to learn.
- Tell me about a time when you adjusted quickly when plans shifted. How did you maintain productivity and composure?
- Describe an incident which shows your level of flexibility, imagination, and willingness to take risks.
- Describe how you would adjust plans fluidly when conditions shift, without losing sight of core objectives.
- Tell me about a time when you responded to new information with flexibility rather than resistance.
Time Management
- How do you minimize avoidable interruptions to protect focused work time?
- Give an example of how you would break large assignments into sequenced, manageable steps with realistic timelines.
- Do you regularly review workload and adjust plans early?
- Give an example of how you used schedules, tools, or systems to stay organized and on track.
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you structured the workday to maintain steady progress on key responsibilities.
- Share an example from your previous position, in which you allocated time appropriately for complex tasks to avoid last-minute rushes.
- Did you complete routine tasks ahead of schedule in order to create buffer time?
Processes and Methods
- Give an example of how you built structured review points into projects to assess progress, identify risks early, and adjust plans proactively.
- Tell me about a time when you followed structured methods and workflows use to achieve goals.
- Give an example of how you built the structure, focus, and momentum that allowed others to excel under pressure.
- How do you structure your work to maintain high performance, even during demanding periods?
- Walk me through how you monitored progress early to catch issues before they became setbacks?
- In your previous position, have you used progress indicators to monitor advancement toward goals?
- Give an example of how you used relevant facts to measure and track progress toward achievement of individual and team goals.
- What steps would you take to define who does what, when, and how, ensure smooth transitions and eliminate bottlenecks?
- Walk me through how you applied systematic planning to ensure people, time, and tools were aligned with priorities and used efficiently?
- How would you establish repeatable processes that reduce variability and help the team deliver consistent results?
Critical Thinking and Decision Making
- In your previous position, did you make difficult decisions? Give some examples.
- Describe your approach to making tough decisions in difficult environments.
- Tell me about a time when you thought ahead to predict downstream effects of decisions and proactively mitigated potential issues.
- Have you made sound decisions quickly, even when information was incomplete or time is limited?
- Have you taken decisive action when others hesitated? Describe the incident.
- Give an example of how you have considered several potential solutions, weighing risks, impacts, and trade-offs before choosing a course of action.
- Explain how you have analyzed the situation and take prompt action?
- Explain how you gathered relevant information, identified patterns, and applied analytical reasoning to reach well-supported conclusions.
- Do you question initial impressions, biases, or conventional thinking to ensure decisions are ground in reality rather than habit?
- Did you monitor outcomes, recognize when a decision was not producing the desired results, and pivoted quickly?