This chapter puts into perspective the different conceptual approaches of competence. The literature review shows that there are different meanings behind the word ‘competence’, which is frequently used to address both social and managerial issues. Competence concerns either the individual level to address the issue of work performance, or the company level to address the strategic issues. These two dimensions are found on both sides of the Atlantic, but with important differences, related to cultural, economic and institutional contexts. But, far from opposing the European and North American approaches, this chapter shows that combining their conceptions is fertile and enriches the perspective on contemporary competence issues.