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Time For a New Definition of Competence?

By Phyllis Weiss Haserot
December 28, 2011

At a program I recently attended, I heard a psychiatrist and performance coach say that the “system” (the work world) is designed to make people “appear competent” rather than, in my words, versatile or interesting or curious. He said that most people are not comfortable with their humanity and vulnerability, and are not ready when opportunity appears.

On balance, is this state of affairs emphasizing data and technical expertise a benefit or hindrance to successful professional services talent and business development? I see the positive side as emphasizing capabilities, depth of experience and a focused approach. However, the downside is that it discourages people from pursuing outside interests and making contributions that will fulfill them, leading to wanting to do and accomplish more. It makes them narrow individuals who don't have places to hang out and talk with prospective clients. And it makes it more difficult to develop trusting relationships, which tend to be based on the whole person.

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