Competency assessment in France.

Competency assessment: supporting your career development in Strasbourg.

What is a Competency assessment?

A competency assessment is a tool designed for support and guidance, available to both employees and job seekers. According to the French Labor Code, its purpose is to “help workers analyze their professional and personal skills, as well as their aptitudes and motivations, to develop a career plan and, if needed, a training plan.” Since its creation in 1991, it has become increasingly popular among employees seeking more meaningful work.

Located in Strasbourg, Rheinbrücke Consulting provides employees in the Grand Est region with competency assessments. Our goal is to help you gain a clearer understanding of yourself to develop a meaningful, coherent, and rewarding career and training plan.

This process, while engaging and occasionally transformative, can prompt many valid questions. We are here to explain the skills assessment process, assisting you in making informed decisions and approaching this journey with confidence.

Why conduct a competency assessment ?

What is the purpose of a competency assessment ?

Conducting a professional check-up allows you to evaluate your career and give it a fresh boost while minimizing risks.

Assess the coherence and relevance of a career plan in relation to the employee's values, motivations, strengths, and skills, while considering the current job market realities.

Secure and support career advancement decisions.

Resolve a challenging situation, revitalize a career, strengthen a decision, or, in some cases, confirm the suitability of the current role.

The ultimate objective : achieving the employee’s fulfillment in their professional life.

How does a competency assessment process work ?

The process consists of approximately twenty hours of face-to-face sessions with the consultant, spread over several weeks in 2- to 3-hour increments. Outside of these sessions, a considerable personal commitment is necessary for reflection, questioning, and research.

The analysis consists of three phases

This stage involves assessing the needs and objectives and determining the most relevant method to achieve them.

This crucial stage involves a thorough examination of various aspects such as personality, values, strengths, weaknesses, soft skills, motivations, and interests. It employs tests and questionnaires, potentially supplemented by feedback from external sources. Based on the initial goals, potential career paths are identified that align with the skills, attributes, and aspirations discovered. This phase may also include interviews with professionals currently in relevant positions.

In this stage, all results are reviewed against the initial goals and needs. The consultant provides a written summary that details the identified career plan and the action steps needed to achieve it, including recommended training and a schedule. The conclusions can vary, offering guidance on finding greater satisfaction in the current role, outlining strategies for internal or external career moves, providing a detailed career change plan, or suggesting further exploration with industry professionals to delve into a specific interest.

In what situations is a skills assessment recommended?

A competency assessment can be conducted at any stage of one’s professional life, regardless of age, experience, or current employment status (whether active or seeking employment). It is frequently sought by employees working in challenging professional environments. It is also useful when one feels the desire for change but is unclear about the underlying motivations or the direction to pursue.

Can a simple job change within the same company be enough to regain motivation? Is the answer to dissatisfaction in finding the same role elsewhere? Could a career change be the key to full fulfillment, and if so, in which field? How does one go about changing careers? Is it worthwhile to commit to a long-term training program? The competency assessment helps evaluate these questions, build a concrete career plan, and gain confidence.

Even an employee who is satisfied with their job may, at some point in their career, feel the need to pause and reflect. A comprehensive check-up can help them take control of their professional future and anticipate upcoming changes rather than simply reacting to them.

A competency assessment can be conducted at any stage of one’s professional life, regardless of age, experience, or current employment status (whether active or seeking employment). It is frequently sought by employees working in challenging professional environments. It is also useful when one feels the desire for change but is unclear about the underlying motivations or the direction to pursue.

Can a simple job change within the same company be enough to regain motivation? Is the answer to dissatisfaction in finding the same role elsewhere? Could a career change be the key to full fulfillment, and if so, in which field? How does one go about changing careers? Is it worthwhile to commit to a long-term training program? The competency assessment helps evaluate these questions, build a concrete career plan, and gain confidence.

Even an employee who is satisfied with their job may, at some point in their career, feel the need to pause and reflect. A comprehensive check-up can help them take control of their professional future and anticipate upcoming changes rather than simply reacting to them.

The benefits of a skills assessment.

Conducting a competency assessment offers you :

A comprehensive 360° analysis that examines not only operational skills but also individual qualities, values, and behavioral aptitudes.

Insightful and impartial guidance from a neutral, supportive professional with expertise in the field.

An opportunity for self-reflection, introspection, and personal discovery.

A clear and actionable plan to confidently take the leap towards change.

Competency Assessment: 4 Key Questions

Who is eligible for a competency assessment?

In France, any employee or job seeker can request a professional skills assessment. It may be initiated by the employee themselves or by their employer as part of an internal skills development plan.

No matter your status, both the process and the results are protected by law and remain confidential.

What is the cost of a competency assessment in Strasbourg ?

The cost of a competency assessment is not standardized and can vary based on the services provided, the organization offering the assessment, the region, and your professional status.

Before making a decision, it’s advisable to compare the costs, services, and types of support available. Each organization may use different approaches and finding the right consultant with whom you feel comfortable and can build a trusting relationship is essential for the success of this personalized process.

How is a skills competency funded ?

If you are on a permanent contract (CDI), your company can cover the costs through its skills development plan. Be sure to check with your Human Resources department for available funding options.

For those on a fixed-term contract (CDD), or if you prefer not to notify your employer of your plans, you can use your Personal Training Account (CPF). The amount you’ve accumulated will determine whether the assessment is fully or partially funded.

For job seekers, Pôle Emploi offers financial support for skills assessments through individual training assistance (AIF).

How can employees take a competency assessment ?

Sessions can be arranged during working hours without affecting your salary, but this requires your employer’s consent, especially to cover any travel.

If you wish to keep the process confidential, you can work with the assessment provider to schedule sessions outside of working hours, either in the evening or by using vacation days.

Looking for a agency to conduct a competency assessment in Strasbourg ?

Whether you’re an employee or job seeker needing a competency assessment, or an employer aiming to support one of your executives with career development or redeployment, Rheinbrücke Consulting is here to help. We offer expert services to both individuals and businesses in the Strasbourg region and the Grand Est area.

Understanding the significance of a competency assessment for your career, we are committed to delivering high-quality service rooted in trust. We balance thoroughness with empathy and expertise with attentive listening.

Contact us to learn more about our competency assessment services. We will provide clear and confidential information about our methods, tools, and pricing. Together, we will find the best solution tailored to your needs and budget.