What type of competency is granted by an entity outside of a resource's company, often a certification?

The appropriate choice is credentials because they represent formal recognition of a person's qualifications and competencies by an authoritative organization outside of their current employer. Credentials often take the form of certifications or licenses, which validate that an individual possesses the necessary knowledge and skills in a specific area.

For instance, obtaining a certification from a recognized body serves as evidence that the individual has met certain standards set by the industry, indicating their level of expertise and fit for specific roles or responsibilities. This is a key distinction from other options, as achievements generally refer to the accomplishments or milestones reached by an individual, while education pertains to the formal schooling and training someone has received, often focusing on degrees rather than certifications. Skills, on the other hand, denote the abilities or proficiencies a person has developed, which may or may not be formally recognized or certified by an external entity.