Employers have identified a few core skills that are critical to students’ success in the job search and in the workplace. Students should seek opportunities such as classes, activities, and internships to develop the skills listed below.
Manage Self
Initiative – Prepare, plan, and prioritize. Proactively look for opportunities to contribute. Be present and productive.
Adaptability – Learn emerging tools and methodologies. Be willing to change in response to new information. Create contingency plans. View setbacks as opportunities.
Accountability – Fulfill obligations, meet deadlines, and follow-through to completion. Admit and correct mistakes. Act with honesty, integrity, and humility.
Engage Others
Communication – Listen attentively. Ask thoughtful questions. Use inclusive language. Tailor content and delivery to audience.
Collaboration – Relate with empathy and curiosity. Acknowledge biases. Avoid assumptions. Respectfully negotiate differences. Confidently lead. Gladly follow.
Honor Diverse Perspectives – Intentionally build inclusive teams and environments. Embrace different ideas and styles. Encourage and value others’ contributions.
Produce Results
Critical Thinking – Gather information from diverse sources. Determine accuracy, relevance, and significance. Consider opposing viewpoints. Make data-informed decisions.
Creative Problem-Solving – Analyze the big picture. Narrowly define the problem. Generate and critique numerous solutions. Anticipate possible challenges.
Continuous Improvement – Assess efficiency and effectiveness. Reflect and self-evaluate. Seek feedback and opportunities to learn. Implement change intentionally and incrementally.
