While Key Outcomes focus on what you achieve, Core Competencies focus on how you work. These represent the essential behaviors and values expected of all OXO team members, regardless of role or seniority.

What makes Core Competencies "core":

• They apply to everyone at OXO—from Staff to Executives
• They reflect OXO's culture and values
• They define how we work, collaborate, and treat each other
• They form the foundation of professional behavior across the business

Each Core Competency represents a fundamental way of working that OXO values across the entire organization. Here's what each one means in practice:

Ownership

Taking personal responsibility for your work, decisions, and outcomes. This means being accountable for results, following through on commitments, and proactively solving problems rather than waiting for others to step in. Ownership also means admitting mistakes, learning from them, and taking initiative to improve processes or outcomes.

Customer Focus

Putting the customer at the center of everything you do. Whether you interact with external customers or internal colleagues, this competency means understanding their needs, delivering quality service, responding promptly to concerns, and going the extra mile to ensure satisfaction. It's about creating positive experiences that build trust and loyalty.

Proactive Communication

Sharing information clearly, timely, and effectively with the right people. This means keeping stakeholders informed, raising concerns early, asking questions when you're unsure, and actively listening to others. Proactive communication prevents surprises, builds trust, and ensures alignment across teams.

Growth & Evolution

Continuously learning, adapting, and improving both personally and professionally. This competency reflects a growth mindset—seeking feedback, embracing change, developing new skills, and helping OXO evolve as a business. It's about staying curious, being open to new ideas, and actively working to become better at what you do.

Operational Excellence

Delivering high-quality work efficiently and consistently. This means following established processes, maintaining attention to detail, managing your time effectively, and finding ways to work smarter. Operational excellence ensures that OXO runs smoothly and that our standards remain high across all areas of the business.

Team Collaboration

Working effectively with others to achieve shared goals. This competency involves being respectful, supportive, and cooperative with colleagues—regardless of department or seniority. It means contributing positively to team dynamics, sharing knowledge, offering help when needed, and recognizing that success at OXO is a collective effort.

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Why Core Competencies matter:

• Performance isn't just about results—it's also about how you achieve them
• They ensure a positive, respectful, and productive work environment
• They protect OXO's culture and reputation
• They help you work effectively with colleagues, managers, and customers
• They're essential for career growth and advancement

How Core Competencies are evaluated:

Your manager will assess how well you demonstrate these competencies through:

• Your daily behavior and interactions
• Feedback from colleagues and customers
• How you handle challenges and difficult situations
• Your overall professionalism and conduct

Core Competencies are typically rated on a scale 1-5 (e.g., "Does Not Meet," "Meets," "Exceeds"), and they contribute to your overall performance score alongside your Key Outcomes.

How to excel in Core Competencies:

• Understand what each competency means in practice—ask for examples if needed
• Reflect regularly on how you're demonstrating these behaviors
• Seek feedback from your manager and peers
• Model the competencies in all your interactions, not just when being evaluated
• Remember: these are non-negotiable standards—everyone is expected to meet them