Demonstrate the Skills Employers Are Seeking.
You are already doing the hard work in your classes, research, and on-campus jobs. The challenge is translating those experiences into the language that employers and top graduate programs value.
At the Center for Career Development (CCD), we focus on your "Flex Skills"—the essential career competencies that prepare you for early success and a lifetime of career fulfillment.
The 8 Career Competencies
Based on research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), these eight career competencies are what employers prioritize most in new hires.
| Competency | How it's Demonstrated |
|---|---|
| Career & Self-Development | Taking charge of your growth, learning continuously, and confidently navigating your career path |
| Communication | Sharing your ideas clearly, listening actively, and connecting with people inside and outside your field |
| Critical Thinking | Analyzing information, solving complex problems, and making logical decisions when faced with new challenges |
| Equity & Inclusion | Championing diverse perspectives, engaging with empathy, and helping build spaces where everyone belongs |
| Leadership | Guiding teams, inspiring others, and taking initiative to drive results |
| Professionalism | Showing up with integrity, accountability, and a reliable work ethic |
| Teamwork | Collaborating smoothly with others to achieve shared goals |
| Technology | Adapting to and leveraging the right digital tools to maximize your impact |
How We Help You Level Up
We don’t just define these skills; we help you measure and maximize them. Schedule an appointment with a counselor to discuss your competencies further. Evaluate exactly where you shine and identify the best areas to stretch yourself further.