Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics (KSAOs)

Knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics (KSAOs) are the attributes required to perform a job:

• Knowledge refers to the body of factual or procedural information that can be applied, such as knowledge of foreign languages or computer programming languages.
• Skills are the capabilities require to perform tasks accurately, such as psychomotor activities like typing speed or driving ability.
• Abilities are more stable characteristics that can include cognitive, sensory and physical abilities, such as empathy.
• Other characteristics are traits that do not fit into the other categories, including values, work style, personality and degrees and certifications.

Find out what skills other HR executives are focusing on in 2023