Competencies are a cluster of behaviors and abilities—such as interpersonal, leadership, and business management skills—that define effective performance in a role. In times of disruption, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, companies may be forced to quickly shift their business strategies. Competencies and a leadership competency framework are critical components for how companies can accelerate the shift in their talent strategy. In this issue of TD at Work, Michael Ganeles and Joe Sillner outline the reasons a competency framework is important. Further, they:

• Explain why organizations need to regularly evaluate competencies.

• Provide talent questions that a competency framework addresses.

• Present examples of competencies in action.

• Discuss six competencies required for the future.