HR-Survey > Competency Model > Risk Management

170 Risk Management Skills Comments

Definition: Managing Risk is the disciplined ability to evaluate risk information, analyze operational and strategic exposures, remain aware of emerging threats, and accurately determine potential consequences to guide appropriate levels of acceptable risk. It involves designing and integrating risk initiatives into existing processes, making informed decisions in fluid conditions, and applying mitigation, control, and response strategies that balance safety, productivity, and organizational resilience. Effective Managing Risk also requires monitoring trends, adapting to changing conditions, fulfilling accountability for risk systems and data, and supporting consistent process execution across teams. It is strengthened through clear communication, ongoing training, and a culture that both respects controls and embraces calculated risks that create value.

Survey Questionnaires with Risk Management Skills:
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)

The statements below can be used in your self-assessment (self-feedback) or performance appraisal as examples to demonstrate your "risk management skills". Having risk management skills means recognizing, analyzing, managing, mitigating, and controlling risk. These activities help improve flexibility and responsiveness.

Evaluates Risk

Evaluates Risk focuses on the strategic application and integration of risk management. It emphasizes determining how risk information is used, assessing risk tolerance levels, and evaluating the likelihood and impact of risks to inform decisions. This dimension is action-oriented and centers on aligning risk management practices with corporate objectives, ensuring smooth operations, and remaining compliant with regulations. It is broader in scope, considering the role of risk management in enhancing strategic decision-making and project implementation.

I used risk management to ensure smooth operations.
I identified emerging risks by reviewing operational data, environmental changes, and early warning indicators.
I evaluated risks in terms of their consequences and likelihood of occurrence.
I determined the risk tolerance of the company.
I evaluated the probability of a risk event occurrence.
I used risk management to make better strategic decisions.
I used risk management to be more effective in identifying and implementing projects.
I determined how the risk management information was to be used.
I identified what actions the organization was willing to take.
I used risk management to remain in compliance with regulations.
I evualated the impact of certain events on the attainment of corporate objectives.

Risk Analysis

Risk Analysis highlights the systematic process of identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks. It involves gathering data on potential risks, conducting audits, and using tools like Monte Carlo simulations to quantify risks and their impacts. This dimension is more focused on the analytical and technical aspects of risk assessment, providing detailed evaluations to determine critical threats and prioritize action based on probability and impact.

I performed regular risk analyses to minimize adverse outcomes.
I gathered information regarding potential risks.
I evaluated risks against acceptable risk levels.
I performed a risk analysis as needed.
I prioritized risks to act on critical issues first.
I quantified current business practices to make better informed decisions.
I determined which are the serious threats.
I prioritized the risks to determine the most pressing needs.
I prioritized risks based on probability of occurrence and possible impact to the company.
I used Monte Carlo Risk Simulations and decision analytics to create the best possible strategic decisions.
I reviewed historical risk events to anticipate future patterns.
I conducted internal audit of risk assessments.
I balanced operational needs with risk requirements to maintain both safety and productivity.
I evaluated risk metrics over timed to determine whether exposure is increasing, decreasing, or stabilizing.

Risk Awareness

Risk Awareness emphasizes the identification and understanding of risks. It involves accurately perceiving potential risks in various aspects of operations, being mindful of regulatory compliance, and assessing the financial implications of those risks. This dimension is centered on the proactive recognition and acknowledgment of risks as potential threats or opportunities, enabling preventative measures and informed decision-making.

I accurately perceived potential risks in the workplace and initiates preventative measures.
I have the knowledge and skills to accurately identify risks in the workplace.
I am aware of the financial implications of certain risks.
I am aware of process safety management.
I accurately perceived potential risks in the workplace.
I perceived the risks of different work tasks and activities.
I understood that risks represented a threat or an opportunity.
I understood the possible financial risks of different events.
I informed leadership promptly of any significant changes in risk levels.
I understood how to meet regulatory compliance.
I identified the most significant risks from business operations.

Determines the Consequences

Determines the Consequences focuses on evaluating the specific impacts and outcomes of risks. It involves assessing whether risks are tolerable, analyzing their effects on finances, reputation, or infrastructure, and prioritizing actions based on their potential consequences. This dimension emphasizes turning risk insights into actionable strategies, including identifying opportunities that risks may present for growth or advantage.

I accurately determined appropriate risk levels (i.e., levels of acceptable risk).
I recognized the potential impact of systemic risks.
I recognized the potential financial impact of specific risks.
I determined the impact of specific risks on infrastructure.
I determined the potential financial impact of specific risks.
I determined the impact of specific risks on marketplace.
I determined the impact of specific risks on reputation.
I looked for opportunities to turn a risk event into an advantage for the company.
I determined if the level of risk was tolerable.
I sought to capitalize on risks.
I determined the impact of specific risks on finances.
I anticipated the consequences of different potential risk events.
I determined the potential outcome of adverse risk events.

Design Initiatives

Design Initiatives centers on proactive planning and strategic preparation for risk management. This dimension emphasizes creating comprehensive risk management strategies, policies, and frameworks that align with organizational processes and objectives. It involves systematically establishing the context for risk activities, designing proportionate responses, and determining tools and frameworks to efficiently manage risks before they occur. "Design Initiatives" is about laying the groundwork for effective risk management through thoughtful preparation and structure.

I created a risk management strategy for the department.
I created a risk profile for projects and teams.
I developed policies to address risk situations in the workplace.
I developed policies for risk management.
I created a risk management strategy for the organization.
I determined the proper tools to efficiently manage the risk.
I determined a proportional response in relation to the level of risk.
I created dynamic and responsive enterprise risk management processes.
I outlined the risk management framework including responsibilities, description of the process, and guidance on evaluating risk criteria and appropriate risk responses.
I aligned risk management activities with existing processes.
I designed risk response activities that were proportionate to the level of risk.
I designed risk management activities that supported the success of the company.
I established the context for risk management activities.

Manages Risk

Manages Risk reflects the strategic and structured risk management focusing on how a manager anticipates, interprets, and positions the organization in relation to uncertainty over the long term. This includes scanning for patterns in changing information, weighing acceptable levels of risk, and making decisions that balance opportunity and protection. Someone strong in this area treats risk as a strategic variable--something to avoid, transfer, accept, or even leverage for advantage. They think in terms of departmental viability, organizational sustainability, and the broader ecosystem in which risks evolve. Manages Risk is about governance, strategy, and decision-making under uncertainty.

I sought to maintain the long-term viability of the Company through effective risk management.
I effectively managed risk for the department.
Based decisions on patterns found in fluid/changing information.
I accepted risk as needed.
I worked effectively to transfer risk.
I viewed risks as potential opportunities for profit.
I worked effectively to mitigate risks.
I implemented strategic risk management in an objective and tactical way.
I worked effectively to avoid risk.

Mitigates Risk

Mitigates Risk focuses on the concrete actions a manager takes to reduce the likelihood, severity, cost, or operational impact of risk events. This includes implementing mitigation strategies, reinforcing procedures, communicating changes, and using data to prevent or minimize disruptions. Someone strong in this area works to reduce losses, delays, and damage; strengthen resilience; and ensure that mitigation components are functioning as intended. They translate strategy into action by putting controls in place, monitoring their effectiveness, and adjusting responses to contain costs and consequences. Mitigates Risk is about execution, prevention, and minimizing harm once risks materialize.

I increased business resilience.
I took steps to contain the costs of responding to such events.
I explained the purpose and value of risk mitigation procedures to increase buy-in and compliance.
I know how to obtain desired results with minimal losses.
I minimized operational setbacks and delays.
I ensured all components of risk management were in place.
I minimized the increase in costs due to global events or supply chain issues.
I communicated changes in risk mitigation processes promptly and clearly.
I took steps to reduce the occurrence of the risk events.
I used financial data to mitigate financial risks.
I took steps to minimize the impact/damage of the risk events.
I implemented strategies to mitigate risks.
I used data from the purchasing department to anticipate possible supply chain risks.

Controls Risk

Controls Risk reflects the protective, preventive, and stabilizing side of Managing Risk by reducing uncertainty, tightening processes, and ensuring that operations stay within safe, predictable boundaries. They build and maintain internal controls, set tolerances for deviation, and intervene early when small issues could snowball into larger failures. Their mindset is oriented toward minimizing exposure: reducing the likelihood of incidents, strengthening safeguards, and ensuring that decisions--especially risky ones--are grounded in solid information. In essence, Controls Risk is about containment, discipline, and maintaining reliability through structured oversight.

I am aware of appropriate actions to minimize risks.
I implemented changes to reduce the chances of critical incidents in the future.
I developed appropriate strategies to minimize risks.
I recognized that small changes may snowball into major events.
I adopted a risk-based approach to establishing systems of internal controls.
I ensured that any risky decisions taken were based on informed decision making.
I established good controls over the process to better manage risks.
I managed risk control systems to ensure they were functioning as intended.
I sought to reduce uncertainty (risks) in the supply chain.
I determined the amount of deviation from the plan that would be tolerated.

Embraces Risk

Embraces Risk reflects the opportunistic, growth-oriented, and value-creating side of Managing Risk as a potential catalyst for innovation, competitive advantage, or strategic gain. They intentionally pursue calculated risks that could advance the organization, reward bold thinking, and convert uncertainty into opportunity. While they still recognize and mitigate risks, their emphasis is on leveraging them--identifying where risk-taking can unlock new value, accelerate progress, or differentiate the business. In essence, Embraces Risk is about strategic boldness, opportunity seeking, and turning uncertainty into advantage.

I rewarded risky ideas that may yield significant benefits.
I added value to the organization through acceptance of certain risk.
I identified and mitigated risks while making informed, strategic decisions.
I sought specific risks that created opportunities to advance the department/company.
I turned risks into opportunities for advancement.
I identified opportunities that were created by taking specific risks.
I turned risks into opportunities.
I took calculated risks by effectively recognizing and managing them.
I sought to add value to the company by embracing risk.

Monitors Risk

Monitors Risk is fundamentally about situational awareness, surveillance, and interpretation by continuously scanning for signals (data trends, incidents, control performance, external shifts, and operational changes) that may alter the organization's risk profile. Their focus is on detecting patterns, identifying vulnerabilities, assessing whether mitigation efforts are working, and ensuring that monitoring processes remain current and effective. This behavior is proactive but observational: it emphasizes watching, analyzing, auditing, and communicating what the risk landscape looks like so the organization stays informed and prepared.

I tracked risks in a project.
I tracked and monitors incidents that may increase the risk of adverse consequences.
I monitored how operational changes (new processes, staffed shifts, technology updates) affect risk exposure.
I monitored the effectiveness of risk management strategies.
I coordinated with cross-functional teams to ensure risk monitoring was embedded in daily workflows.
I analyzed trends in incident data to identify recurring vulnerabilities or systemic weaknesses.
I kept watch on external factors (regulatory, market, environmental) that may alter the organization's risked profile.
I monitored risk events and notified appropriate stakeholders.
I evaluated whether current monitoring tools and methods remained adequate and recommended improvements.
I performed monthly risk management assessments.
I conducted regular audits of the risk management framework.
I used actionable data and analytics to improve risk tolerance.
I monitored enterprise risk management activities for their impact and effectiveness on mitigating risks.
I adjusted monitoring processes based on lessons learned, new data, or changes in organizational priorities.
I monitored leading and lagging indicators to detect shifts in risk exposure before issues escalated.
I assessed whether risk mitigation measured were being consistently applied across teams or departments.

Risk Response

Risk Response is about action, adaptation, and intervention by deciding what to do once a risk is detected or when conditions change unexpectedly. They create contingency and continuity plans, adjust thresholds, implement controls, and take steps to reduce losses, minimize impact, and restore stability. Their focus is on responding to events (anticipated or unanticipated) with agility and judgment. While Monitors Risk tells you what is happening, Risk Response determines what happens next.

I responded appropriately to unexplained or unanticipated events.
I adapted quickly to changing situations.
I effectively responded to critical situations to reduce potential for losses.
Avoided maintaining the status quo (or standard operating procedures) when addressing new and influential situations.
I created continuity plans.
I identified the controls needed.
I revised risk thresholds and triggers as conditions evolved.
I reduced risk to a manageable level.
I decided what actions would be taken.
I verified that corrective actions from previous assessments remained effective over time.
I created a level of resilience in the organization.
I created contingency plans.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities reflects the ownership, accountability, and stewardship side of Managing Risk through the formal duty to oversee regulatory, strategic, operational, and project-level risks. Managers with these responsibilities maintain records, prepare reports, track compliance, and ensure the organization has accurate, timely information about its risk posture. Their work is often analytical and governance-focused: integrating data across the company, generating insights, and informing strategic decisions. In essence, Responsibilities is about being the accountable owner of the risk management function--ensuring the systems, documentation, reporting, and compliance structures are in place and functioning.

I am concerned about process safety management.
I sought to increase safety in the workplace.
I prepared periodic risk reports that summarize findings, trends, and recommended actions.
I integrated risk management processes, data, and analytics across the company.
I was responsible for regulatory, strategic, operational and project risk management.
I maintained accurate, up-to-date records of risk assessments, monitoring activities, and follow-up actions.
I tracked compliance with risk-related policies, procedures, and controls.
I used risk data to generate insights and drive strategic decisions.
I provided regular updates to stakeholders on risk status, trends, and areas requiring attention.

Supports the Process

Supports the Process reflects the enablement, reinforcement, and day-to-day operational support side of Managing Risk by helping embed risk procedures into daily work, ensures employees understand expectations, reinforces adherence to protocols, and aligning team behavior with the organization's risk appetite. Managers supporting the process of Risk Management encourage participation, increase visibility, and help other managers and teams apply risk processes consistently. Their focus is not on owning the risk function but on making the risk process work in practice--supporting adoption, ensuring consistency, and integrating risk thinking into operations.

I am committed to implementing rules and procedures to minimize risk.
I improved process safety where possible.
I reinforced adherence to risk protocols during daily operations, not just during formal reviews.
I ensured employees are aware of potential impacts by increasing risk visibility.
I supported cross-functional teams in applying consistent risk practices.
I provided support to managers involved in the risk management process.
I worked within constraints of the organization.
I integrated risk management into strategic decision making.
I ensured risk management procedures were consistently applied across teams and workflows.
I encouraged employees to raise concerns and participate in risk-related discussions.
I ensured risk processes support strategic goals rather than operate in isolation.
I aligned team activities with the organization's risk appetite and tolerance levels.

Risk Communication

Risk Communication focuses on sharing information, setting expectations, and ensuring clarity across the organization by translating risk policies into understandable guidance, clarifying roles and procedures, and keeping stakeholders informed through reports, updates, and cross-department communication. The emphasis is on creating transparency--making sure people know what the risks are, what the protocols require, and how decisions are being made. They build shared awareness and alignment so that everyone understands their part in managing risk. Risk Communication is about informing, clarifying, and connecting people to the risk management system.

I maintained open communication with other departments.
I presented regular/monthly reports to the audit committee.
I ensured that risk monitoring results were communicated in a way that supported informed decision-making.
I fostered an awareness and a shared responsibility for managing risk at all levels of the Company.
I established roles, responsibilities, procedures.
I clarified expectations when new or updated risk procedures were introduced.
I ensured documentation met regulatory, audit, and organizational standards.
I communicated the protocols.
I communicated risk policies into clear, actionable steps for employees.
I promoted risk management competence throughout the organization.

Training

Training focuses on building capability, developing skills, and improving performance related to risk through teaching employees how to apply risk procedures, coaching them on decision-making, and creating materials or sessions that strengthen risk competence. Managers with this competency identify knowledge gaps, design training based on incidents or audits, and ensure employees have the skills and resources to follow risk protocols effectively. Their emphasis is on learning and development--helping people not just understand risk, but perform better in managing it. Training is about teaching, developing, and equipping employees to act effectively within the risk framework.

I am knowledgeable of standard risk management principles.
Attended risk management seminars and conferences.
I created informative guides regarding potential risks and risky behaviors.
I offered training to reduce safety incidents in the workplace.
I coached team members on how to incorporate risk considerations into their own decision-making.
I provided training and resources to help employees follow risk procedures effectively.
I identified gaps or inefficiencies in existing risk processes and recommended appropriate training.
I implemented training based on lessons learned from incidents or audits.

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