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Capability Framework [V1]: Skills

Supporting researcher-facing librarians to successfully deliver inside-out services and support.

What are skills?

For the purpose of this framework a Skill is defined as using knowledge in execution or performance of a task.

Information skills

Is able to find, evaluate, organize, authenticate, use, and communicate information in all its various formats.

Data skills

Is able to collect, read, write, and communicate data in all its various formats.

Communication skills

Is able to use written, verbal, and visual language to convey and obtain information, insights and ideas.  Can communicate complex ideas to different audiences.

Problem solving skills

Is able to identify and implement solutions to address difficult situations.

Stakeholder skills

Is able to identify emerging stakeholders. Manages stakeholder expectations about outcomes. Understands the value and fosters strong relationships for development of initiatives.

Networking skills

Is able to engage with others, and build relationships and trust within and beyond the library and academia. 

Leadership skills

Is able to motivate others, and coordinate resources, in order to achieve engagement and meet agreed outcomes.

Technology skills

Is able to use technology to responsibly and appropriately create, consume, manage, and interact with information. 

Presentation skills

Is able to deliver effective and engaging formal presentations to a variety of audiences both in face to face and online environments. 

Analytical skills

Is able to identify and analyse information, ideas, problems, and data, to support problem-solving and decision making.

Decision making skills

Is able to choose one or more courses of actions.  Justifies and communicates decisions effectively.  

Instructional design skills

Is able to design effective workshops, training materials, user guides, and other learning objects, for both online and face to face environments.  

Influencing skills

Is able to influence changes in behaviour, attitudes, and practices of others.  Gains support through consultation and negotiation.

Instructional skills

Is able to effectively use instructional delivery techniques like questioning, discussion, and demonstration. Inclusively engages and motivates attendees, communicating ideas effectively, and providing safe space for learning.

Negotiation skills

Is able to work with two or more parties to achieve agreement.  Understands the constraints of licencing agreements and works with all parties to resolve arising issues.

Research skills

Is able to conduct a significant research project independently and with a high level of theoretical understanding.    

Active listening skills

Is able to concentrate on information and insights conveyed verbally, understand meaning, and respond sensitively.  Will take steps to, confirm a shared understanding and, ensure they will later remember what was said.

Statistical skills

Is able to collect, organise, analyse, and communicate statistical data in all its various formats.

Time management and organisational skills

Organises own work effectively, completes tasks on time and in line with the priorities of the library.

Synthetization of data

Can combine, manage, and analyse data from different sources.

Can you help us?

To help phase two of this project, after exploring all the capabilities please consider completing a survey.  Let us know if you agree that these are the capabilities required by researcher-facing librarians working with inside-out services, and whether some are more important than others: 

Survey for Skills: https://otago.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7Ogp3qnSk6BKgaF