A framework for the skills and experiences that prepare students for career success, career readiness grew out of a shift in employer recruiting practices. Instead of academic discipline and GPA, employers have recognized that a more effective strategy is to focus instead on transferable skills, experience, and personal attributes (like work ethic).

The 8 competencies below were developed by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) to connect career readiness to what students gain from coursework, co-curricular activities, and experiential learning.

Every day, you are building career readiness—in class, at student activities, at your internship or campus job, while volunteering in the community, and everywhere in between. Use these career readiness competencies as a general guide to understanding what employers are looking for in applicants. Assess your strength in each of these areas and get ideas for how you might build your skills and experience.