Produces clear and complete written reports that meet the needs of the customer. Written reports use words and tone that are appropriate for the intended audience and are produced and distributed in a timely manner. This differs from reports that use jargon or other words that may not be understood by the intended audience, reflect an inappropriate tone and/or are distributed too late to meet the needs and expectations of various stakeholders.

Prioritizes tasks and manages time to ensure that deadlines are met. Plans his or her time and sticks to those plans. Prevents or manages interruptions until the highest priority tasks are accomplished. This is in contrast to those individuals who fail to prioritize tasks or are not tenacious or disciplined enough to stay focused on the highest priority aspects of the job. This tendency to lack focus or discipline results in unmet deadlines and frustrated stakeholders.

Investigates all viable options, along with the potential consequences of each, and then makes timely and good decisions. Can direct a group through this process and does not hesitate to make difficult decisions. Can speed up the decision-making process when time is of the essence, yet can also slow it down when there is time to do so. This differs from those who make quick decisions even when there is little time pressure or too few options have been explored, who struggle to make decisions when they are difficult or controversial, who fail to take charge when a group is struggling to move forward; and/or who miss "windows of opportunity" by delaying decisions when timing is truly a critical factor.

Makes it a practice to share new skills or knowledge with others in the organization. Keeps his/her manager informed of newly- acquired skills and knowledge and offers to share information, demonstrate skills or summarize learning for others on the team. This clearly differs from those who tend to hoard knowledge or skills and fail to see to it that new capabilities are shared with others to expand the benefits for the organization.

Breaks down problems and issues into sub-components and then assesses the costs, benefits and risks of various options prior to selecting a particular approach. This contrasts with the behavior of individuals who tend to attack problems without a thorough examination of all important components and ramifications; who fail to weigh the costs, benefits and risks associated with various alternatives; and/or who are unable to explain or justify their decisions in a logical and systematic fashion.

Can analyze organizational strengths and weaknesses and then combine these with knowledge of the industry, market and organization to develop long-term strategy. This is distinctly different from being unaware of organizational strengths and weaknesses and/or are being unable to combine a knowledge of the industry, market and organization in a fashion that results in a viable long-term strategy.

Keeps informed about market conditions, competitive information and political factors that may impact the goals and interests of the organization. Uses good judgment about when to share external information as well as who should be informed. Stays up-to-date on trends and projections and sees what is on the horizon. Is seldom surprised by political or market factors that affect the organization. This is in contrast to those who stay focused on internal matters alone and get surprised when external factors change the landscape for the organization.

Understands the internal climate of the organization, including the most productive channels of communication, and makes use of the appropriate communication channels to achieve goals and objectives. Has learned about both formal and informal communication channels and understands when to stick to the formal hierarchy of reporting relationships. Understands unwritten protocols and the political aspects of how communication takes place. Avoids errors in judgment when selecting strategies for accomplishing tasks. This is distinctly different than those who fail to understand formal and informal channels of communication, misread organizational dynamics and are left scratching their heads about why their efforts to achieve support and results fall short of their expectations.