Skill set from the IDeA Last year the Improvement & Development Agency commissioned some work looking at the skills required to be a local councillor. As councillors we get shed load of factual information and reports to keep us 'well informed' but very little is ever targetted at the skills we ought to develop to do the job, possibly because nobody inside councils - except councillors themselves - needs to think about them?   So when the IDeA did this work, I was so impressed that I made a note to try and use this stuff locally to help build our own development programme here in Hastings. The whole document takes each of the skills listed below and then looks at positive and negative behaviours which can show if councillors are/are not performing in the necessary way to carry out their responsibilities.   Community Leadership Engage enthusiastically and empathetically with communities in order to learn, understand and act upon issues of local concern. Mediate fairly and constructively, encouraging trust by representing all sections of the community.  fficeffice" /> Regulating and Monitoring role Understand and execute judicial role by following protocol, evaluating arguments and making decisions that balance public needs and local policy. Ensure progress by monitoring and intervening where necessary.   Scrutiny and Challenge Act as a critical friend by seeking opportunities for scrutiny and providing constructive feedback. Analyse information quickly and present arguments in a concise, meaningful and easily accessible way.   Communication Skills Listen sensitively, use appropriate language and check for understanding. Communicate regularly with individuals and groups in the community, speak clearly and confidently in public and make sure that people are informed.   Working in Partnership Build positive relationships by making others feel valued, trusted and included and by working collaboratively to achieve goals. Maintain calm and focus, recognise when to delegate or provide support and to take a long-term view in developing partnerships.   Political Understanding Act ethically, consistently and with integrity when communicating values or representing groups views in decisions and actions. Work across group boundaries without compromising values or ethics.   Providing Vision Create a shared council vision by establishing strategic policies and prioritising actions. Actively encourage involvement of others in policy formation and work collaboratively to analyse information and promote understanding. Be open to new ideas and ways of doing things.   Managing Performance Work closely with others to develop, promote and achieve objectives and represent council at a strategic level. Encourage scrutiny, monitor performance and respond positively to feedback and ideas.   Excellence in Leadership Provide visionary and charismatic leadership, be well prepared, able to troubleshoot and juggle conflicting responsibilities. Work to shape a culture of excellence by acting as the public face of the council and a role model for others. Encourage co-operation and communication across political and council boundaries.

16.6.05 08:28 Permalink / comment