Notes on SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK) 2025

Overview

• The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has been pivotal for HR professionals for over 70 years.
• SHRM BASK (formerly SHRM BoCK) evolves the SHRM Competency Model by expanding on HR knowledge and behaviors.
• BASK is used for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certification exams, ensuring HR professionals are recognized as experts.
• SHRM maintains a strict separation between exam content and preparation materials.

What Are Competencies?

• Competencies are groups of interrelated knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (KSAOs) essential for effective job performance.
• Two types of competencies:
  • Technical Competencies: Specific knowledge required in a profession (e.g., HR Expertise).
  • Behavioral Competencies: General KSAOs facilitating job-related behaviors (e.g., Communication).

Knowledge + Behavior = Success

• Success in HR depends on the combination of knowledge and behavior.
• Empirical research supports the dual approach, validating that both elements are crucial for effective job performance.

Development of the SHRM BASK

• Initiated in 2011 with focus groups and surveys involving HR professionals globally.
• Includes behavioral competencies and HR-specific knowledge.
• Updated regularly, with the latest changes integrating new insights on inclusion and diversity.

New Material in 2025 SHRM BASK

• Transitioned to an online, interactive format.
• Revised behavioral competencies, functional areas, and added new content for clarity and relevance.

Organization of the SHRM BASK

Behavioral Competencies

• Grouped into three clusters:
  • Leadership Cluster: Leadership & Navigation, Ethical Practice, Inclusion & Diversity
  • Interpersonal Cluster: Relationship Management, Communication, Global Mindset
  • Business Cluster: Business Acumen, Consultation, Analytical Aptitude
• Each competency includes definitions, key concepts, sub-competencies, and proficiency indicators.

Technical Competency: HR Expertise

• Covers three domains: People, Organization, and Workplace.
• Divided into 14 functional areas, facilitating application by behavioral competencies.

Detailed Competency Clusters

Leadership Cluster

• Leadership & Navigation: Encompasses setting HR vision, managing initiatives, and leading organizational change.
• Ethical Practice: Focuses on integrity, accountability, and ethical behaviors.
• Inclusion & Diversity: Ensures all individuals are treated fairly and encouraged to contribute fully.

Interpersonal Cluster

• Relationship Management: Creating and maintaining professional networks and handling conflicts.
• Communication: Crafting and delivering clear communications and exchanging information.
• Global Mindset: Valuing diverse perspectives and promoting an inclusive workplace.

Business Cluster

• Business Acumen: Understanding organizational operations and aligning HR initiatives to strategic goals.
• Consultation: Evaluating business challenges and designing change initiatives.
• Analytical Aptitude: Collecting and analyzing data to inform HR decisions.

People Knowledge Domain

• Covers HR Strategy, Talent Acquisition, Employee Engagement & Retention, Learning & Development, and Total Rewards.

Organization Knowledge Domain

• Includes Structure of the HR Function, Organizational Effectiveness & Development, Workforce Management, Employee & Labor Relations, and Technology Management.

Workplace Knowledge Domain

• Covers Managing a Global Workforce, Risk Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, and U.S. Employment Law & Regulations.

Appendices

• Glossary: Definitions of key terms and acronyms used throughout BASK.
• Resources: Suggested readings and resources for further learning on various HR topics.

Key Takeaways

• SHRM BASK is a comprehensive framework for HR competencies and knowledge.
• It supports the career development of HR professionals by defining essential behavioral and technical skills.
• Regular updates ensure it reflects current HR practices and prepares professionals for certification exams.