flexagon | Miiiiinnnnnndfuuuuuccckkkk.

Colubrid is at it again... today was the day for us all to do online self-evaluations of our work for the last 10 months. These things are useful mostly as psychological tests: what do you say about yourself? Puff yourself up, cut yourself down? Will you admit to any weakness that management hasn't already spotted?

I gave myself almost all 3's (Successfully Met Expectation), two 2s and two 4s. Thanks for your interest, but I'm just a satisfied worker bee, really I am -- just move along.

Some of their descriptions of areas of competence were actually pretty thought-provoking. I liked the one about levels of skill in communication.

Competency Details : Professional Communication
Target Level 3-Skilled
Description Transmits a clear understanding of a subject and comprehends information received from others

Rating Levels:

Proficiency Rating	Proficiency Level Behavioural Indicator
1 -- Foundation	Presents written and verbal information clearly and concisely. Listens carefully to the content of information being conveyed by others in order to understand the key points.
2 -- Intermediate	Conveys knowledge and credibility with effective structuring of ideas, opinions and information, in writing and speaking. Listens carefully to the content of information being conveyed; asks clarifying questions to ensure understanding of others' messages.
3 -- Skilled	Conveys information, thoughts, and opinions by writing or speaking in a persuasive manner appropriate to the audience. Listens carefully and attentively, and clarifies and confirms the understanding of others' messages. Demonstrates an understanding of the implicit (emotional) message as well as the explicit message of any communication.
4 -- Advanced	Expresses and articulates key elements of ideas or concepts (both written and verbal) in a logical, descriptive, and comprehensible manner. Anticipates reactions and responds appropriately. Probes and listens for information from others, without interrupting or judging, in order to understand underlying issues.
5 -- Superior	Expresses complex ideas both written and verbal to all audiences. Demonstrates a finely tuned ability to anticipate, and respond to, reactions, attitudes, views, and feelings of individuals and groups.

The one on Adapting to Change, on the other hand, just freaked me out. Note how "accepts the need for change" is the very first level, while discriminating between GOOD change and BAD change isn't mentioned until the highest level.

Competency : Adapting to Change
Target Level 2-Intermediate
Description-- responds to change by demonstrating flexibility and working effectively in ambiguous situations

Rating Levels:

Proficiency Rating	Proficiency Level Behavioural Indicator
1 -- Foundation	*Accepts the need for change.* Shows willingness to adjust to new work processes, environment, or requirements.
2 -- Intermediate	Supports change, and encourages others to respond positively to change. Demonstrates flexibility in working with a variety of working styles, new situations, and team members.
3 -- Skilled	Remains focused on key goals and assists team members in implementing change. Openly shares information that helps the team understand the dimensions and reasons for a particular change.
4 -- Advanced	Anticipates change and its impact on others. Manages the change process by identifying barriers and obstacles to change, and by ensuring that these are overcome.
5 -- Superior	Creates an environment in which *constructive* change is welcomed and there is an emphasis on continuous growth and development. Consistently provides direct, timely, and honest information regarding development that will bring about potential change.