What KPI’s Really Tell Us
Traditional KPI’s like sales results, completed projects, and financial returns are great at showing us what has happened. But they reflect the end results of our efforts, not the story behind how we got there.
The Power of Soft Competencies
If we want to influence our results, we need to look closer at the inputs that drive these outcomes. Soft competencies such as quality, accuracy, and client focus are critical levers for success. When we pay attention to these factors, we’re not just improving our work; we are fundamentally changing the way our business operates.
- Quality: Delivering solutions and products that meet (or exceed!) expectations ensures customers return, refer others, and trust our brand.
- Accuracy: Getting things right the first time saves time, reduces costs, and builds confidence both internally and externally.
- Client Focus: Understanding our clients’ needs and tailoring our services to meet them sets us apart from competitors and fosters lasting relationships.
How Soft Competencies Influence Results
When we prioritise these softer skills, we’re proactively shaping our outputs. Think of it like tending a garden: sales results are the harvest, but quality, accuracy, and client focus are the soil, water, and sunlight that nurture growth. By improving these inputs, we set ourselves up for bigger, better, and more sustainable results.
Practical Steps for Teams
Here are a few simple ways to bring soft competencies into focus in your daily work:
- Set Clear Standards: Define what ‘quality’ means in your team and make it a shared goal.
- Double-Check Your Work: Develop habits that promote accuracy, such as checklists and peer reviews.
- Listen to Your Clients: Regularly seek feedback and use it to improve your products and services.
How to measure these competencies
The Assessment Criteria Matrix, which defines over 20 different soft competences ranging from Customer focus and New Business development to H&S and Quality and accuracy is a key tool in assessing competencies.
Want to know more?
Check out the video to find out more – KPI’s to truly drive your business