Competencies vs Capabilities: Why the distinction matters
Competencies get you the job.
Capabilities keep you thriving.
The world of work is evolving. Fast. And while ‘competencies’ and ‘capabilities’ are often used interchangeably, they’re not the same. Understanding the difference is a game changer for organisations ready to thrive through change.
Competencies = The What and How
Competencies are the specific skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to get the job done. They’re role-specific, tied to technical expertise, and can become outdated as roles shift. Think of them as the ‘what’ and ‘how’ of work.
Examples in a learning and development context include
Designing e-learning modules
Facilitating training sessions
Measuring outcomes
Capabilities = The Who and Why
Capabilities go deeper. They’re the human-centric strengths that stay relevant, no matter how roles evolve. Less about tasks, more about thinking, adapting, and leading — the ‘who’ and ‘why’ of work.
Examples in a learning and development context include:
Adaptive Mindset: Navigating change with curiosity
Emotional Intelligence: Connecting and influencing
Innovative Thinking: Tackling new challenges creatively
Why It Matters?
Competencies equip people to do the job. Capabilities equip them to thrive when the job changes.
Focusing solely on competencies keeps organisations reactive, always playing catch-up. Shifting to capabilities builds a future-ready workforce that can:
Adapt without constant retraining
Lead with empathy and influence
Innovate across changing landscapes
Dr. Marcus Bowles 30+ years of research and expert on Human Capabilities talks how capabilities are more durable than competencies and that they’re about ‘who you are,’ not just ‘what you can do.’
How to Shift to Capabilities:
Assess Capability Gaps: Go beyond technical skills to uncover what drives future success aligned to business strategy.
Reframe Development Plans: Prioritise adaptive thinking, emotional intelligence, and leadership.
Recognise Adaptive Behaviours: Celebrate curiosity, resilience, and creative problem-solving.
Instead of asking, “What can you do?” ask, “Who are you becoming?”
Competencies may get you the job, but capabilities will keep you thriving. And in a world defined by change, that’s more than a subtle shift. It’s a strategic advantage.