18 Performance Dimensions 1. Active Listening & Responding 2. Analysis 3. Building Trust 4. Business Knowledge 5. Change Management 6. Collaboration 7.

Customer Orientation 8. Decision Making 9. Effective Communication 10. Influence 11. Initiative 12. Innovation 13. Managing Risk 14. Organizational Awareness 15. Professional Expertise 16. Project Management 17. Relationship Building 18. Strategic Thinking

1. Active Listening and Responding Definition: The ability to listen to others and understand their point of view and perspective in order to respond effectively to the needs of all parties. Interview Question: Tell me about an occasion when you felt your understanding of a task or request made by others was important in accomplishing a key deliverable. Probing Question: How did you find out about the request? What was your reaction? What did you do to ensure you were able to meet (or exceed) and deliver on the request? What was the outcome?

Listens Intently: Demonstrates active listening by paraphrasing or summarizing what they heard, acknowledging the message in order to respond appropriately

Listens to facilitate dialogue: Actively seeks out information about others views and perspectives. Asks questions to test for understanding. Invites conversation and interaction

Responds Appropriately: Based on effective active listening, generate responses to others thoughts and perspectives which invite further interaction, openness, conflict resolution, both within and across groups, and which positively impacts others behavior
Operates effectively in group activities; testing understanding, challenging points of view and providing constructive feedback. Uses open discussion and involvement to establish mutual trust, seeking and sharing opinions and adapting style to suit the situation. Listens to others, both to understand their point of view and to adjust the communication to be more effective. Listens objectively; setting aside preconceived ideas

Assesses underlying causes: Effectively assess the underlying causes of individual, group or companywide perspectives, behaviours, or concerns. After assessing the situation, responds in a way designed to move the organization & the relationship forward.
Establishes a collaborative culture through common understanding in difficult circumstances, building on open communication. Understands the reasons/motives underlying others behavior. Takes multiple personal styles and concerns into account when making decisions.

Listens attentively, understands others positions and data including when these differ from their own and responds accordingly. Understands what are the most important concerns of others. Integrates feedback from (internal/external) customers, managers, and/or peers. Grasps messages conveyed by others or requests clarification when not clear

Strives to develop open communication with others, taking account of others views and concerns, seeking information where appropriate. Seeks other peoples point of view, ideas, concerns by asking openended questions. Encourages others to provide their thoughts and opinions.

2. Analysis Definition: The ability to gather relevant information, notice relationships between different pieces of information, reason from cause to effect, and generate effective solutions to practical problems. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you used a systematic approach in solving a problem or addressing an issue. Probing Question: What was the nature of the problem (issue)? What did you think when you saw the problem (issue)? What did you do specifically to cope with the problem? Lead me through the thinking process that you went through while you were coping with the problem. What was the outcome?

Sees Basic Relationship: Gathers information from immediately available resources recognizing when a current situation is very similar to a past situation. Makes straightforward causal links (A causes B) and generates possible solutions.

Sees Multiple Relationships: Goes beyond immediately presented information, probing deeper to get at the root of a problem. Notices trends, patterns, or missing pieces. Analyzes relationships among several parts of a problem or situation and identifies possible solutions.

Analyzes Multidimensional Problems: Analyzes problems involving multiple interrelated causes. Where necessary, gathers information over an extended period of time and applies complex concepts or methods to generate possible solutions.

Analyzes Ambiguous Problems: Analyzes complex problems involving multiple relationships and inter- action where data is incomplete, missing or ambiguous. Where necessary, goes to unusual lengths, such as using third parties, to gather needed information. Pulls diverse data together into an integrated picture that provides possible solutions.
Identifies underlying trends, identifying opportunities and threats to achieving strategic goals, clarifying ambiguities. Uses networks of contacts to understand customers business, internal situation, politics, etc. Simplifies complex information and quickly identifies the central or underlying issues in a situation even under stressful circumstances

Collates, validates and classifies information, identifying opportunities for improvement. Detects linkages between events or situations based on experience and information. Gathers information from more then one source to understand problems. Identifies possible cause-effect relationships

Prioritizes, links and coordinates information from multiple sources, notices discrepancies and inconsistencies in available information, suggesting possible courses of action and anticipates the consequences of decisions. Interprets qualitative and/or quantitative data, identifies patterns and can describe the broader trends (big picture implications). Sees connections between seemingly dissimilar situations.

Selectively absorbs an challenges a large amount of diverse information, stepping back from details to find a way forward. Consults multiple sources and people to validate an idea or direction, including soliciting conflicting views in order to ensure a thorough examination, prior to committing to a course of action. Seeks out and conducts in depth research into available literature and/or data

3. Building Trust Definition: The ability to stick with principles that both earn and foster trust and respect from others. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you acted on your belief or sense of integrity in dealing with a job-related issue. Probing Question: Tell me about the situation. What were you thinking? What did you do? What did you say? Did you face any dilemma? If so, how did you overcome it? What was the outcome?

Meets commitments: Meets "say/do" commitments and adheres to company standards, policies, and goals in relation to work activities. Promises only what can be delivered

Demonstrates Consistency: Consistently treats others with dignity and respect, sharing credit, visibility, and respecting diversity

Demonstrates resolve in adverse circumstances: Communicates information accurately even when the information is bad news. Remains visible during times of crisis. Rejects unethical shortcuts even when they may appear advantageous.

Fosters Ethical Behavior in Others: Deliberately acts as an ethical role model for others. Puts service to customers, welfare of employee, and success of the organization as a top priority. Seeks systemic solutions to problems rather than assigning blame to individuals.
Acts as a role model for others through moral and ethical integrity. Serves as a mentor (formal and/or informal) and influences others to behave ethically. Makes difficult ethical, business decisions. Seeks and gains buy-in from key internal and external stakeholders

Meets personal commitments and promises. Demonstrates Ciena's Core and Leadership Values in all his/her undertakings.

Constantly treats others with dignity and respect. Is honest and forthright in actions and behavior. Sets and demonstrates high standards of integrity Practices discretion

Demonstrates consistent commitment to company values with confidence in adverse circumstances. Models ethical behavior even when under strong pressure to compromise to win business. Demonstrates willingness to make tough decisions or give bad news.

4. Business Knowledge Definition: Knowledge of and insight into general business principles and practices as well as current business priorities and measurements. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you took an action or made a decision based on your understanding of business principles. Probing Question: What were the specific business issues involved? How did you identify those business issues? How did you use your business knowledge to influence your decisions or actions? What was the outcome?

Understands Business Principles & Practices: Demonstrates a basic understanding of general business and financial principles and has general understanding of current business processes & their impact on key business drivers for function.

Applies business principles & practices to specific business issues: Understands the elements of the key business drivers for their function to be able to support specific areas for analysis and interpretation. Is able to challenge existing processes to increase efficiency.

Consistent application to all business decisions: Understands the key business drivers for their function and the respective contribution to the business. Is able to formulate processes and opportunities for analysis and interpretation of data to challenge business leaders.

Exemplar in knowledge & decision making in business principles & practices: Has an excellent understanding of the key business drivers for their function. Identifies the key factors in the internal and external business environment that need to be leveraged to optimize business performance and decision making.
Maintains an awareness of external factors that affect the industry and identifies risks and opportunities created from the impact of geopolitical forces, regulatory environment, challenges facing suppliers, etc. Identifies areas for process improvements and seeks to streamline operations. Creates realistic operating budgets that include forecasting, volume, revenue, and expenses

Uses basic knowledge of business principles and practices to achieve objectives. Understands basic business/financial concepts and vocabulary, e.g. basic balance sheet, profit and loss statements, etc. Follows accepted business standards and practices regularly. Can quickly understand and then leverage the business terminology in your function/region.

` Demonstrates business understanding in daily activities Builds an effective business case for requested resources Can articulate organizational performance using financial fundamentals

Consistently demonstrates understanding of marketplace and business operations. Focuses on controlling costs for all business projects or initiatives. Supports team efforts to meet objectives within budget Interprets and monitors on-going budget performance Manages and accounts for resources and costs

5. Change Management Definition: The ability to maintain effectiveness in a changing environment. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when there was significant business change. How did you support the change? How did you support others? Probing Question: What did you think when you observed the environmental change? What did you do to redirect your own or your team's efforts to cope with the change? What was the outcome?

Adapts Own Approach: Reacts positively to change, cooperating readily with revised methods and priorities. Individual understands own reaction to change and constructively acknowledges phases of change that one will go through to accept the transition.

Comfortable with Ambiguity: Able to remain productive when faced with ambiguity in the organization. Supports and understands need for change. Influences peers around the need to adapt in the face of a changing environment or during times of uncertainty.

Proactively drives change during complex situations: Facilitates the path to change, especially in the face of conflict or ambiguity through understanding change management principles. Acknowledges that people may react differently in changing or ambiguous situations and is able to adjust behavior/communication to influence a positive outlook in others. Successfully translates new goals into practical processes.

Anticipates and Influences Change: Anticipates and prepares for change. Introduces timely decisions to take advantage of the opportunities associated with change. Recommends or initiates significant organizational changes. Understands and can implement effective change management principles. Acknowledges that change is challenging and supports team while finding a way to focus people on the tasks at hand in a positive manner.
Creates a vision for change that makes a clear statement about the desired outcomes, that is customer focused, shared across the organization and easy to understand. Creates a coalition of people who will take accountability for driving change and delivering the outcomes. Anticipates and influences change to its best advantage, minimizing the negative impact by introducing timely and appropriate action plans. Integrates change through consistent, tangible, and visible reinforcement from coalition members.

Understands the shared need for change and is able to articulate the benefits to others. Demonstrates personal commitment to making change happen. Reacts positively to change, cooperating readily with revised methods and priorities to sustain performance. Able to maintain effectiveness when experiencing changes in job in spite of unanswered questions Able to adapt quickly to new contexts

` Demonstrates commitment to making change happen, and encourages others to respond positively to change. Identifies areas where change is needed and offers constructive ideas for improvement. Adapts quickly to change and incorporates current best practices into their work. Demonstrates professionalism; expresses concerns constructively and manages personal frustration appropriately. Remains focused on deliverables in spite of unexpected challenges

Acts as the champion for the shared need to change and motivates people to action Supporting, expanding and institutionalizing the change, ensuring that learning in one part of the organization is transferred to other parts of the organization. Adjusting underlying systems and processes to sustain and support the change effort. Smoothes the path of change even in conflict, translating new goals into practical processes, and makes the change happen. Directs change efforts and processes.

6. Collaboration Definition: The ability to work with others collaboratively, either as part of an intact or virtual team. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you worked effectively as a member of a team. Probing Question: What did you do to help the team achieve its goals? Give me an example of your successful interaction with other team members. Were there any difficulties that the team encountered? How did you deal with them? What was the outcome?

Shares information: Keeps team informed and up-todate. Shares all relevant or useful information. Gives detailed advice, and on-thejob demonstrations. Verifies that others have understood explanations and directions.

Builds Inclusiveness: Solicits input, ideas, and expertise using others' contributions to make decisions/plans and/or applies these learnings later. Invites all members of a group to contribute to a process.

Encourages And empowers: Publicly credits others who have contributed or performed well. Encourages and empowers others to contribute diversity of views that challenge the norm. Acts to promote good morale and cooperation.
Provides opportunities for others to present the results of their own accomplishments. Recognizes superior effort, contribution and performance of others. Maintains and recognizes the accomplishments of others while giving input or direction. Works to build cooperation for the benefit of the organization Makes decisions using input from others, Influences individuals to accept decisions that are right for the company without intimidating or relying exclusively on authority

Fosters collaboration across teams: Encourages or facilitates a beneficial resolution to conflict across multiple work teams. Fosters and implements learning opportunities across broader organization.

Shares information appropriately, being mindful of confidentiality issues, with anyone who may benefit from or have a need for the information. Keeps team members abreast of progress. Cooperates with others to achieve team goals and treats everyone with dignity and respect.

` Promotes team cooperation; solicits others inputs, supports team. Finds ways to promote information sharing and help people learn from each other. Recognizes and acknowledges the importance of opinions and ideas of others. Promotes involvement of others by including them in meetings where issues are discussed. Participates in open, candid, and interactive discussion of issues. Involves others in planning and goal setting.

Identifies conflicts and helps to resolve them constructively. Leverages conflicts to drive creativity and build teamwork. Establishes an environment of trust where disagreements can be aired and issues resolved quickly for the benefit of the team. Promotes different points of view and brings diverse inputs into the team. Reinforces and rewards collaborative behavior in others. Connects teams to develop mutual understanding and build collaborative relationships.

7. Customer Orientation Definition: Brings engagement skills that assist in obtaining satisfied customers in both routine and challenging situations. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you felt effective in dealing with your customers. (Customers may be internal or external.) Probing Question: What were the specific concerns or issues with the customer? How did you identify them? What did you do to address the customer's issues? What was the outcome?

Takes Personal Responsibility: Personally follows through on customer inquiries and requests. Takes personal accountability for addressing & solving problems effecting Ciena's customers promptly and in a non-defensive manner. Demonstrates responsiveness.

Addresses Underlying Needs: Understands the customers business and seeks information about the underlying needs of the customer, beyond those expressed initially. Matches those needs to appropriate products, solutions and services.

Acts to add longer term value: Ensure customer value and organizational impact on resources, systems, process & tools. Consults with a longterm perspective in addressing customers needs & issues with an intent to strengthen their business. Uses appropriate metrics to measure success.
Leverages Ciena solutions to enhance customers internal capability to achieve business and strategic objectives. Asks for feedback from customers on how Ciena's performance can be improved in the future. Establishes relationships at more senior Customer levels. Utilizes these relationships to influence Customers behaviors and decisions. Communicates customer needs and opportunities within Ciena to influence our priorities Rewards or recognizes team and/or colleagues for delivering exceptional customer service

Partners with your customer: Becomes directly involved in customers decision-making process & strategy to partner for success. Influences own organization to act in customers best interest while balancing needs of the company. Act as a trusted business partner and advisor to your customer.
Acts as an advocate within Ciena and with 3rd parties for his/her customer. Is a partner and trusted advisor to customer top management based on mutual respect. Creates and leads crossorganizational teams of Ciena staff, customer staff, other vendors to proactively address opportunities or issues. Involves customers in the product/service development process to ensure their needs are met.

Demonstrates an awareness of internal and/or external customers and their needs. Demonstrates a sense of urgency and ensures there is a timely response to customer queries or requests and follows-up as required. Takes accountability for handling specific customer problems or requests providing highest quality customer service possible. Actively listens to customer/user concerns and responds nondefensively.

` Understands the internal and/or external customer's business. Asks probing questions to identify customers underlying needs. Probes customers directly to understand what underlies their issues or desires. Decisions and priorities are driven by customer needs while also balancing the needs of Ciena. Establishes strong relationships at the decision-making level of the customer. Knows and leverages people who influence the customer.

8. Decision Making Definition: The ability to make decisions, once a situation or problem has been analyzed, based on judgment of the best solution to a problem or situation. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you had to make a tough decision. Probing Question: What was the nature and impact of your decision? What were the potential consequences of your decision? What information did you consider in making the decision? Describe some of the other options you had before making the decision and describe why you chose the decision you made. What was the outcome?

Delivers Routine Decisions: Makes timely fact-based decisions, when required, gathering and using data.

Delivers Decisions In The Face of Competing Alternatives: Makes timely fact-based decisions utilizing appropriate analysis and decision making tools, processes, or techniques to reach a sound business conclusion.

Takes Risky Decisions: Makes timely decisions when the opportunities involve risk to business results, individuals, or the team. Balances potential gains against the risks and makes the decision without hesitation.

Takes Far Reaching Decisions: Makes timely decisions when the consequence of the decision involves risk to business results, without hesitation, where the consequences of the decision have broad and/or long-term implications for the success of the business.
Takes decisive action about complex issues evaluating situations in the context of corporate objectives. Steps up and makes a decision using available data and when information is limited or time is short. Accepts responsibility for the consequences of far-reaching decisions. Completes risk analyses to determine potential impacts Correctly identifies which decisions require attention and the manner and timeframe in which they should be made

Makes routine decisions in a timely manner Asks relevant questions to gather necessary information Understands the facts before making a decision Relates information from different sources to draw logical conclusions. Checks to see if the action proposed will satisfy the need. Actively questions various sources to improve clarity around issues

` Commits to course of action or recommendation within the necessary timeframe. Uses available information to make decisions while avoiding overanalysis Makes a systematic comparison of two or more alternatives, to decide on a course of action. Identifies and evaluates alternatives. Solicits others' inputs around perceived pros and cons of proposed approach Acts decisively during times of stress staying on course.

Arrives at sound and timely business decisions by considering the wider Ciena cost/benefit and risk implications. Ability to articulate the benefit of a innovative or controversial decision, supports the right decision even if it is unpopular. Consistently views situations from multiple perspectives. Delegates effectively based on project urgency and individual skill level Encourages and supports others to make decisions effectively.

9. Effective Communication Definition: Facilitates the flow of information up, down, and across the organization. Communicates effectively in both oral and written format (formally and informally). Interview Question: Describe a situation where a successful project deliverable or business outcome was dependent on your ability to effectively communicate with others. Probing Question: How did you identify who to communicate with? What methods of communication did you consider? How did you know you were successful with your communication? What were some of the challenges you faced? What was the outcome?

Communicates in order to get work accomplished: Understands the importance of communication and clearly articulates thoughts, opinions and shares relevant information with colleagues.

Shares information across team(s): Effectively shares relevant information in order to increase personal and team productivity and/or to implement change. Invites others to provide feedback and share their learnings, creating two-way dialog.

Creates understanding to drive the business forward: Proactively seeks feedback and input from a variety of sources, creating dialog in a positive manner. Ensures all stakeholders understand the rationale for key decisions or changes and gains support needed to achieve business goals. Provides clear "lines of sight" into how team's work advances organizational goals and provides timely recognition.
Creates credibility for self and the organization by acknowledging issues. Proactively promotes the organization's products and services Articulates the internal and external factors which determine the organization's ability to meet its goals Creates dialog in a positive manner, articulates issues and challenging topics with forceful optimism Accurately conveys views that differ from one's own, in a supportive manner

Fosters an engaged organization: Engages organization, stakeholders (both internal and external) in dialog around setting business strategy. Effectively sponsors, develops and implements communication plans. Inspires others to foster a collaborative and open environment for communication at all levels.

Speaks honestly about problems, offers constructive input and focuses on positive solutions Presents ideas in a positive and constructive manner. Proactively shares thoughts or feedback with colleagues in established/regular team meetings

` Sets up differing mechanisms to discuss thoughts and opinions or share knowledge. Adapts communication style for content to suit the audience. Recognizes diverse cultural styles and norms. Focuses on the most relevant information and prioritizes the messages concisely.

Communicates a compelling vision that inspires internal stakeholders and external customers/markets. Explains and supports organizational positions, decisions, or policies Effectively confronts controversial topics and communicates appropriate messages

10. Influence Definition: The ability to persuade or influence other people to accept a point of view, to adopt a specific agenda, or to take a course of action. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you had to persuade or influence a person or group to adopt a particular point of view or take a specific course of action. Probing Question: What were some of the things you considered before taking action? What actions did you take? What did you say to the person (group)? Did you meet any resistance? How did you deal with it? What was the outcome?

Uses persuasion: Uses persuasion in attempts to positively influence. Presents logical arguments, data, and/or concrete examples. Organizes facts and arguments clearly.

Expands influencing strategies: Adapts presentation or discussion to appeal to the interest or perspective of others. Anticipates objections or reaction and proactively prepares to address concerns.
` Influences others by listening and responding to their concerns, highlighting mutual benefits and confidently dealing with challenges. Anticipates how others will respond to persuasion attempts, positions or tailors an approach, based on its likely impact. Identifies appropriate time to raise visibility of an issue to maximize buy-in and minimize resistance.. Encourages mutually beneficial outcomes. Exhibits flexibility while influencing others to achieve goals and solve problems.

Develops networks of influence: Takes several different actions to influence, with each action tailored to the target audience. Leverage key stakeholders to influence direction.

Recognized authority: Influences through third parties or uses experts to influence by assembling coalitions and building behindthe-scenes support for ideas. Structures situations to influence others' behaviors.
Creates coalitions, uses 3rd party advocates and experts in Ciena, customer and other organizations. Develops a reputation based as the industry authority and can influence business and market decisions. Enlist influential allies to support own case with other groups. Negotiates agreements that favor the organization's short- and longterm goals Speaks passionately and charismatically on topics to rally support of a broad audience.

Provides clear explanation of relevant facts; presents well reasoned and well prepared case. Quantifies value proposition to customer in economic cost: benefit, return on investment dollars. Presents a logical, sequential account of the thought processes leading to a recommended decision. Presents compelling arguments to support positions.

Negotiates a common agreement and commitment, lobbying key individuals, anticipating needs and dealing effectively with concerns. Uses many influencing strategies Develops networks of subject matter experts to use in persuasion. Persuading in a non-adversarial or non-intimidating manner without relying exclusively on positional authority.

11. Initiative Definition: The ability to consistently take action to meet immediate challenges or to think ahead and meet future opportunities and challenges. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you acted proactively in seizing a future opportunity or addressing a potential problem. Probing Question: How did you identify the future opportunity (problem)? What did you think when you saw the opportunity (problem)? What did you do to seize the opportunity (or solve the problem)? What was the outcome?

Shows Persistence: Persists in the face of obstacles or rejection. Does not give up when things do not go smoothly. Ensures tasks are completed to agreed standards of excellence set by management.

Actively Addresses Current Opportunities or Problems: Acts without the need for prompting. Recognizes and acts upon present opportunities or addresses present problems quickly and decisively while meeting a high standard of quality and/or productivity.
` Acts before being forced to by events, does more than the job requires to create opportunities. Anticipates problems and proactively seeks solutions before being asked or directed. Displays a winning attitude. Delivers results and exceeds expectations by continually focusing on key objectives and negotiating realistic and challenging goals. Seeks opportunities (e.g., training, certification, on-the-job development) to ensure skill sets remain marketable. Develops strategy for achieving career goals

Enables Others to Take Action: Enables individuals and groups to take action within and beyond their immediate scope. Facilitate commitment to continuous improvement. Takes action to create opportunities or avoid problems that are not obvious to others.
Delivers results by initiating actions and encouraging commitment to continuous improvement individually and collectively. Resolves complex issues that extend beyond standard practices following evaluation of the broader cost, risk and benefits implications. Takes action, without guarantee of success, after weighing the pros and cons. Seeks opportunities to lead crossfunctional projects and initiatives outside the scope of current role.

Initiates Long-Term Actions: Establishes clear long-term goals and develops a pervasive results-oriented culture. Passionately driven to make a difference for Ciena and its stakeholders.

Demonstrates persistence and resolve to overcome obstacles. Finds ways to get things done and is not easily discouraged. Willingly accepts challenging goals, making a sustained effort to ensure their achievement. Is a self-starter and demonstrates a strong work ethic Takes accountability for own career goals, aspirations and development Shows willingness to participate in projects and initiatives outside of current role when invited to.

Acts to position self and company at the forefront of technology and market evolution or direction. Acts to position Ciena with customers, industry groups 2-5 years in the future by building relationships, positioning future Ciena solutions to support the customers long term strategy. Fosters a culture focused on taking action. Takes calculated risks and responsibility for the consequences. Proactively drives decisions that favor the organization's short- and long-term goals

12. Innovation Definition: The ability to create or introduce new ideas, methods, or processes to the workplace to improve performance. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you created or introduced (or helped to create) a new idea or a new way of doing things. Probing Question: In what sense was the idea (method) new to the organization? What did you do to create the new idea or method? How did the idea or method improve the team's or the company's performance? What was the outcome?

Embraces Innovation Instituted by Others: Eager to accept, volunteer and challenge new methods and approaches to improve work process, quality or team's productivity.

Works Creatively: Creates or introduces useful ideas, methods, or processes that are new to the job or work unit. Applies ideas or models from outside own frame of reference.

Foster Creativity in Others: Recognizes creativity in others. Encourages others to experiment, try out new things, and learn. Fosters the introduction of new ideas, methods, or processes building on previous experiences.

Creates an Environment That Inspires Innovation: Recognizes others for fostering a creative environment and a learning culture. Ensures that any mistakes or losses are analyzed for key learnings and shared openly with others without blame.
Creates an open environment of regular experimentation Promotes an environment in which individuals are comfortable talking about mistakes Institutionalize the regular examination of successes and failures to build a culture of innovation. Encourages colleagues to innovate and consider seemingly unconventional ideas Finds creative ways to accomplish goals in the face of resource constraints

Contributes ideas to new and innovative solutions to problems or opportunities. Open to new ideas and eager to try new approaches to getting work done. Is viewed as a valuable contributor during brainstorming sessions Quickly grasps new concepts and ideas

` Generates new ideas to improve existing and future conditions. Tries strategies new to the industry, e.g., new ways to partner with customers, sell to end users, etc. Creates new models, algorithms, strategies for Ciena or customers success. Introduces new approaches and develops creative improvements to an organizations processes or projects/services. Able to generate innovative approaches when facing obstacles to conventional methods.

Invites imaginative solutions from others to solve problems or seize opportunities. Leverages setbacks as a normal part of organizational and selfdevelopment success. Supports others who take calculated risks Understands the value and benefits of diverse points of view to develop innovative approaches, and forms diverse teams to drive innovation.

13. Managing Risk Definition: The ability to anticipate, identify, investigate and/or mitigate risk for the business. Interview Question: Describe a situation where you were required to make a decision or solve a problem that had inherent risks. Probing Question: At what point did were you able to establish the risk level? What were some of the actions you took to fully understand the potential outcomes? What did you do to manage and mitigate the risk level?

Understands Risk: Understands and appreciates the existence of risks and can begin to identify business risks in a particular issue. Seeks support in resolving risk issues.

Manages Risk: When making decisions can accurately assess risks, weigh risk against benefit, and recommend risk mitigation strategies. Seeks opinion and feedback of leadership in making final decision on risk strategy.

Takes Accountability for Risk: Anticipates Risk and makes business plans as to avoid unnecessary risks. Is willing to make a judgment that involves a business risk in order to achieve a recognized benefit or advantage and take responsibility for the risk.

Manages Complex Risk: Anticipates, mitigates, and IS willing to take accountability when making complex business decisions in global or strategic situations. Effectively balances competing risks to make the appropriate business decision despite ambiguous circumstances.
Identifies and mitigates any threats that business strategies pose to the organization's reputation Takes calculated risks, on behalf of the broader organization/stakeholder, to ensure the strategic plan is fulfilled Confidently states and defends a potentially controversial (or unpopular) decision to support or avoid a situation of risk

Willingness to seek guidance and support around potentially risky situations rather than acting unilaterally. Identifies "out of bounds" concerns in everyday work and escalates the issue/concern appropriately. Looks for support and advice to identify areas of risk which may not be obvious or within realm of personal experience. Demonstrate an honest acceptance of risk

` Remains focused in spite of unexpected challenges Identifies possible problems and makes plans to mitigate them Manages risk by communicating discreetly and to appropriate audiences.

Identifies, considers and when necessary, mitigates the negative impact of decisions. Demonstrates a willingness to accept appropriate level of risk and acknowledges that risk is part of most business decisions. Accepts full accountability for risk and the mitigation decisions.

14. Organizational Awareness Definition: The ability to understand and learn the organizational hierarchy and decision makers within Ciena's organization, external partner and customer organizations. Includes the ability to identify who the decisionmakers are and who can influence them. Predicts how individuals or groups will react to new events or situations. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you tailored your action or approach based on an understanding of the organizations structure, culture, or politics. Probing Question: What organizational issues did you identify in the organization and how did you identify them? What did you do to accommodate the specific organization structure, culture, or politics? What made the action or the approach effective? What was the outcome?

Understands Formal Structure: Achieves results by recognizing and using the formal structure of an organization, levels of approval and standards of operation.

Understands Informal Structure: Achieves results by recognizing and using both the formal and informal structure of an organization, including who are the decision makers within the organization and who influences them.

Leverages Corporate Culture: Achieves results by recognizing and using the corporate culture and communication norms (e.g. acronyms or common terms) of an organization to achieve results. Has awareness of audiences and stakeholders.

Manages Underlying Organizational Issues: Achieves results by influencing & addressing the reasons for an organizations ongoing behavior, and/or the underlying problems, opportunities, and/or political forces impacting the organization in relation to the external world.
Knows customer/supplier top managements organizational issues and politics. Attuned to the culture and key people within organizations that influence Ciena's business or customers (e.g. competitors, suppliers, consultants) Uses awareness of the history, culture and concerns within the organization to develop effective strategies and tactics.

Understands customers formal organization structure. Understand the organizational structure and procedures within product and/or market groups. Knows organizational systems, procedures, and policies. Knows who to go to for help

` Understands customers/suppliers informal organization political network: who influences whom in internal politics. Understands who the key decisionmakers and influencers are within Ciena. Is comfortable representing the organization in external meetings or negotiations

Recognizes business and social norms of other Ciena functions/organizations and adapts approaches and strategies to maximize effectiveness. Understands and relates to broader cross-cultural value systems held by others. Takes an overall view of the organization into consideration when making decisions. Effectively navigates sensitive or challenging situations

15. Professional Expertise Definition: The ability and motivation to expand one's own technical/professional knowledge and to share this experience with others. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you used or expanded your technical or professional expertise to add value to your organization. Probing Question: How did you acquire the knowledge (or develop the expertise)? What did you do to apply the knowledge or expertise to your work or others' work? How did the knowledge (or expertise) alter the way that you (or others) did the job? What was the outcome?

Demonstrates Basic Knowledge: Demonstrates a basic knowledge of all important aspects of specialization or profession. Applies this effectively to meet performance expectations. Appears confident with basic knowledge.
Meets immediate objectives by applying current knowledge of specialization. Keeps up with basic developments within specialization Takes advantage of opportunities to develop subject-matter expertise

Demonstrates Depth of Knowledge: Maintains "best practice" knowledge of advances in own field. Applies current knowledge effectively across a range of situations balancing confidence in own abilities with willingness to listen and learn from others.

Demonstrates Breadth of Knowledge: Enhances performance by applying knowledge to an area outside own core specialty. Confident in knowledge and shares expertise to make decisions.

Demonstrates External Expertise: Seeks opportunities to influence and raise levels of awareness of new ways of thinking and is recognized as an esteemed expert and an outstanding influencer both internally and/or externally.

` Keeps current with advances in own field by reviewing applicable articles, professional associations, etc., applying this knowledge to unfamiliar situations Shares knowledge or expertise with others Keeps abreast of developments within the business, industry and profession. Maintains contact and membership in professional/technical associations.

Keeps abreast of business developments outside core specialty area. Acts as a resource or "expert" outside team or unit Teaches business/technical skills to less experienced employees Eager to apply knowledge more broadly and take on assignments that go beyond area of expertise. Steps out of comfort zone.

Seen as the recognized authority in area of specialization, internally and externally. Acts as an advocate for the field of specialization and represents Ciena's leadership in that area. Conducts in-depth and leadingedge research efforts Regularly speaks, publishes or presents on leading-edge issues.

16. Project Management Definition: The ability to establish a clearly defined course of action to accomplish goals and to organize work efforts. Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you had to organize and plan your work efforts or the work of other people to achieve a specific objective. Probing Question: What did you do to achieve the objective? Who was involved? What were the difficulties in achieving the objective and how did you deal with them? What was the outcome?

Plans and Controls Own Routine: Plans and controls own routine work on a day-to day basis to achieve objectives. Budgets time well. Uses resources and efforts productively. Can develop a project plan and successfully manage a small project with minimal budget, scope and time.

Manages Short-Term Objectives: Develops and implements plans for self and/or others that anticipate future short-term, week-toweek needs and objectives. Understands the basic concepts of project management and can manage a med to large size project.

Professional Project Management capability: Develops and implements plans for others, anticipating future medium-term, monthto-month needs and objectives. Ensure that group tasks are completed. Demonstrates advanced project management knowledge and can manage complex projects with high strategic risk or investment risk.
Demonstrates certification level project management abilities. Ability to identify, recruit and lead virtual team members with the appropriate skills for the project. Translates strategies into workable plans, anticipating the impact of change, ensuring time is available for regular reviews. Manages and accounts for resources and costs

Complex Project Management capability: Program manages multiple projects with high degree of strategic or financial risk and/or global in nature. Develops and implements long-term plans for others involving several action plans which impact other parts of the organization.

Practices good time management and sets routine to achieve objectives. Spends adequate up-front planning time to minimize unnecessary or irrelevant work. Solicits the input and expertise of others during project Follows through on commitments Anticipates and readily meets deadlines

` Ensures thorough understanding project scope and deliverables up front. Reorganizes work as circumstances change in order to achieve objectives. Monitors progress of efforts against goals, milestones and communicates status to stakeholders. Devises logical, well-reasoned sequences of activity

Develops strategic plans in which a number of project plans reside to ensure the delivery of corporate goals. Proactively builds contingency plans to mitigate potential project concerns. Develops awareness of interrelationships and interdependencies among different projects and balances expectations of the individual stakeholders.

17. Relationship Building Definition: Maintains effective working relationships with contacts. Participates effectively in conversations and interactions with these people. Interview Question: Tell me about at time when you built an internal or external relationship that contributed to the accomplishment of your business objectives. Probing Question: Who was involved? What did you do to foster the relationship? What was the potential impact of the relationship on your job? What was the outcome?

Maintains Effective Working Relationships: Maintains effective working relationships with immediate contacts. Participates effectively in informal conversations and interactions with these people.

Builds Relationships outside current work team: Initiates and builds effective formal and informal relationships with key individuals in other business functions. Fosters and develops effective crossfunctional working relationships.

Fosters Positive Relationships Across boundaries: Initiates and builds effective relationships with influential individuals in other organizations,. Develops a wide network of contacts across organizational boundaries. Quickly able to establish trust.
Maintains communications across groups and acts as a catalyst for various organizations and can facilitate collaboration. Seeks out contacts who have differing points of views and roles throughout the company, and strives to facilitate communication and break down artificial barriers Supports joint projects or sharing of resources when appropriate. Demonstrates advanced interpersonal and applies them in difficult circumstances to strengthen relationships Builds credibility and trust across Ciena and with customers and suppliers

Establishes Collaborative Networks: Creates new effective synergistic networks by bringing people together from across organizations. Creates environment where new relationships are sought and shared, driving new collaborative opportunities.

Demonstrates awareness of the individuals and groups essential to perform day-to-day activities. Participates in team events, meetings and activities in order to effectively develop and build positive working relationships with others. Accepts input and/or feedback from others and responds constructively.

` Proactively makes contact with other individuals outside immediate work group in order to achieve objectives Develops a network within and across functions and regions, and adopts approaches or methods to maintain relationships Seeks out contacts who have differing points of views, experiences and roles throughout the company Leverages a variety of interpersonal skills to build relationships Seeks to strengthen relationships through mentoring/coaching opportunities.

Builds a network of contacts throughout the company at all levels, up to and including executives, and develops outside relationships. Develops systems and contact networks to monitor the business of our customers, the industry and business trends as well as to provide market research and competitive intelligence, and represents Ciena externally. Evaluates the operational and strategic impacts of potential relationships. Views suppliers and customers as 'partners'

18. Strategic Thinking Definition: Understands current business environment and strategies and looks for future opportunities Interview Question: Tell me about a time when you took action to implement or to develop Cienas (or another organizations) objectives or mission. Probing Question: How did you identify the organization's objectives or mission? What did you do to implement or develop the objectives or mission? What was the outcome?

Follows Company Practices: Understands and personally follows the company code of practice, values, and vision as developed by others. Aligns behaviors with company vision and mission.
Asks the "what if" questions based on the current business context. Consistently seeks to understand the context of day-to-day work related activities. Is able to articulate how one's function fits into the broader organization or aligns to the business strategy

Develops Practical Activities: Develops practical activities for the team aligned with Ciena Networks vision and values to achieve team's goals.

Develops Initiatives: Develops initiatives designed to change behaviors and implements new initiatives in line with Ciena Networks vision and values.

Develops Vision: Orchestrates a process that engages the organization in crafting and identifying a vision to create a compelling future. Implements the vision to achieve valued results.
Creates contingency strategies should political, regulatory, or workforce issues become unfavorable Establishes a customer- and industry-focused business strategy for the organization Uses SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis to understand and leverage the organization's strengths in the creation of growth strategies Anticipates the impact of changes in projected financial growth on strategy implementation

` Identifies patterns in complex situations and helps set a clear direction for the team or project. Effectively generates, articulates, crafts mission statements, department/project plans and tracking successes based on leaders direction

Understands the regulatory environment and/or cultural nuances in operating countries Operationalizes strategy by developing and prioritizing specific actions and making clear decisions Articulates the internal and external factors which determine the organization's ability to meet its goals Sees linkages between Ciena and it's competitor's strategies and is able to assess how to adapt an approach that is competitive.