How to Prepare CIOB Professional Review Competence Report

What Is the CIOB Competence Report?

The CIOB Competence Report, also known as the Reflective Account, is a key document required during the CIOB Professional Review—the final step toward achieving Chartered Membership (MCIOB).

This report showcases:

• Your real-life construction experience

• How your work aligns with CIOB’s core competency framework

• Your ethical and professional understanding as a leader in the industry

Key Competency Areas to Cover in the Report

Your Competence Report must demonstrate your experience across five core areas:

Each competency must be supported by real, personal examples.

Understanding the Structure of a Strong Competence Report

Recommended Format:

• Word Count: 3,000–5,000 words

• Format: PDF or Word document

• Tone: Professional, reflective, first-person voice

Suggested Layout:

1. Introduction (career summary)

2. Breakdown by each competency area

3. Conclusion and summary of experience

4. CPD record attached (as a separate log)

How to Select Projects and Experiences for the Report

Select 3–4 substantial projects that reflect your:

• Role in leadership and decision-making

• Knowledge of construction legislation and health/safety

• Financial and commercial responsibility

• Real-world ethical decision-making

Avoid projects where your role was passive. Focus on experiences where you took initiative.

Writing the Report: Step-by-Step Approach

1. Introduction

Provide a brief overview of your:

• Career progression

• Qualifications

• Current job role and responsibilities

2. Competency Breakdown Using Projects

For each of the 5 competencies:

• Choose relevant examples

• Describe the Situation, your Task, the Actions you took, and the Result (STAR method)

3. Reflect on Learning and Outcomes

Explain:

• What challenges you faced

• What you learned

• How you’ve applied that learning in other projects

Tips for Reflective Writing in Your Competence Report

Do:

• Use first-person language (“I led...”, “I managed...”)

• Be specific—mention tools, teams, figures, and regulations used

• Focus on your personal contribution, not the team’s

 Don’t:

• Use vague or generic phrases

• Focus too much on company goals instead of your own role

The Role of CPD in the Competence Report

Your CPD (Continuing Professional Development) record:

• Should cover at least 30 hours per year

• Must be diverse: formal learning, mentoring, reading, webinars

• Is submitted as a structured table or log

Make sure your CPD aligns with your report and shows ongoing commitment to learning.

Referees and Their Importance in the Submission

You must nominate at least two referees who can:

• Validate your described experiences

• Confirm your professional behavior and ethics

Choose Referees Who:

• Know your work for 12+ months

• Hold a senior or supervisory role (MCIOB or equivalent preferred)

• Are willing to provide a written testimonial or verification

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Your Report

Mistake 1: Vague or Generic Descriptions

Instead, use numbers, project names, budgets, and outcomes.

Mistake 2: Ignoring Ethics and Sustainability

Include how you ensured fairness, diversity, legal compliance, or environmental responsibility.

Mistake 3: Writing as a Team

Assessors want to hear what you did—not what “we” did.

FAQs About Preparing the CIOB Competence Report

1. Can I use overseas experience?

Yes. CIOB accepts global experience if it meets competency standards.

2. How many projects should I include?

Use 3–4 strong examples that together cover all competencies.

3. Do I need to use CIOB’s template?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended for structure and clarity.

4. How long does the CIOB review take after submission?

Typically 6–8 weeks, including referee validation and possible interview.

5. Can I get help writing the report?

You may use proofreading and coaching, but the content must be yours.

6. What if I fail the review?

You can resubmit after feedback and make necessary improvements.

Conclusion: Craft Your CIOB Competence Report with Confidence

Your CIOB Competence Report is your chance to showcase experience, leadership, and ethics—and take the final step toward MCIOB status.

Be honest, be detailed, and most importantly, be yourself. With the right structure and real-life evidence, your competence report will pass the CIOB review and elevate your career in construction and project management.