Role profile library
Predefined role profile
Higher education lecturers
The behaviours this profile measures, drawn from the great{with}talent job library and occupational research. Download the full competency-based interview guide to assess them.
The full interview guideCompetency-based questions, follow-up probes and a 1–5 rating form for each behaviour — ready to print or run on screen.
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Behaviours assessed — 5 priority competencies
1
Technical Capability
Has the necessary knowledge, skills and proficiency to conduct their role. Demonstrates mastery in their area of technical capability. Stays up to date with advances in their field and commits to their continuous development.
Why this matters for Higher education lecturers: The PSF 2023 (Advance HE) places subject mastery and scholarship-informed practice at the foundation of HE teaching. Technical Capability captures depth of disciplinary knowledge, mastery of pedagogical content, and staying current with research developments — the entry ticket to the role.
2
Influencing and Persuading
Presents simple, impactful messages in a compelling manner. Changes their emphasis and approach to address resistance, focusing on the value their ideas will bring different stakeholders. Confidently negotiates effective outcomes.
Why this matters for Higher education lecturers: Lecturing is fundamentally an act of influence: making complex ideas accessible, building reasoned argument, persuading students to engage critically. Influencing & Persuading captures the ability to present ideas in compelling ways and adapt approach to address different learners.
3
Analytical Skills
Breaks a problem down into its core elements. Draws on different data sources to inform their thinking, identifying the most pertinent issues within this. Incorporates the emotive elements of a situation into their thinking, before making sound inferences based on the available information.
Why this matters for Higher education lecturers: PSF 2023 emphasises evidence-informed approaches and the use of research and scholarship to enhance practice. Analytical Skills captures the ability to break down disciplinary problems, draw on diverse evidence, and make sound inferences — both in research-active practice and in teaching.
4
Personal Development
Takes responsibility for their own development, setting clear goals in the process. Seeks out new development opportunities, learning from their successes and failures. Proactively asks others for feedback.
Why this matters for Higher education lecturers: PSF Core Knowledge K5 explicitly requires engagement in CPD and reflection on teaching practice. The role itself sits within a profession where research and teaching are continuously updated. Personal Development captures the proactive approach to learning, feedback-seeking, and adaptation that distinguishes effective HE practice.
5
Customer Focus
Builds effective customer relationships to ensure needs and expectations are understood. Understands the importance of the customer to the business, seeking regular feedback whilst being prepared to say no when needed.
Why this matters for Higher education lecturers: PSF 2023 strengthened its emphasis on inclusion, supporting diverse learners, and equity of opportunity to succeed. Customer Focus captures understanding learner needs, adapting practice to meet them, and seeking feedback — central to the post-2023 direction of UK HE teaching standards.