Consider integrating activities and assignments into your curriculum that will teach students eight Career Readiness Competencies. These could also be incorporated into other communications or major activities outside of the classroom, e.g. business club, social work club, etc…
Critical Thinking/Problem Solving: Exercise sound reasoning to analyze issues, make decisions, and overcome
problems. The individual is able to obtain, interpret, and use knowledge, facts, and data in this process, and may
demonstrate originality and inventiveness.
Oral/Written Communications: Articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively in written and oral forms to
persons inside and outside of the organization. The individual has public speaking skills; is able to express ideas to
others; and can write/edit memos, letters, and complex technical reports clearly and effectively.
Teamwork/Collaboration: Build collaborative relationships with colleagues and customers representing diverse
cultures, races, ages, genders, religions, lifestyles, and viewpoints. The individual is able to work within a team
structure, and can negotiate and manage conflict.
Digital Technology: Leverage existing digital technologies ethically and efficiently to solve problems, complete
tasks, and accomplish goals. The individual demonstrates effective adaptability to new and emerging technologies.
Leadership: Leverage the strengths of others to achieve common goals, and use interpersonal skills to coach and
develop others. The individual is able to assess and manage his/her emotions and those of others; use empathetic
skills to guide and motivate; and organize, prioritize, and delegate work.
Professionalism/Work Ethic: Demonstrate personal accountability and effective work habits, e.g., punctuality,
working productively with others, and time workload management, and understand the impact of non-verbal
communication on professional work image. The individual demonstrates integrity and ethical behavior, acts
responsibly with the interests of the larger community in mind, and is able to learn from his/her mistakes.
Career Management: Identify and articulate one’s skills, strengths, knowledge, and experiences relevant to the
position desired and career goals, and identify areas necessary for professional growth. The individual is able to
navigate and explore job options, understands and can take the steps necessary to pursue opportunities, and
understands how to self-advocate for opportunities in the workplace.
Global/Intercultural Fluency: Value, respect, and learn from diverse cultures, races, ages, genders, sexual
orientations, and religions. The individual demonstrates openness, inclusiveness, sensitivity, and the ability to
interact respectfully with all people and understand individuals’ differences.
Find more information on the NACE website: https://www.naceweb.org/career-readiness/competencies/career-readiness-defined/