Career readiness is the attainment and demonstration of requisite competencies that broadly prepare college graduates for a successful transition into the workplace.
Click each competency below to learn about opportunities to develop your skills. LinkedIn Learning has mapped career competencies to courses in their video library to help you build the skills employers want.
Practice sound reasoning and analytical skills to make decisions and overcome problems. Critical thinking and problem solving is rated the #1 competency employers seek.* Gain problem solving skills through course research projects, leadership in student organizations, or through participating in undergraduate research.
Articulate thoughts and ideas clearly to a variety of audiences and employ effective public speaking skills. Hone these skills in your classes through written work and public speaking.
Build collaborative relationships with coworkers and be able to work well in a team environment. There’s a reason your professors assign group projects! Employers want graduates who can collaborate with colleagues and work effectively on a team to reach a common goal.
Leverage existing digital technologies ethically and efficiently to complete tasks; demonstrate effective adaptability to new technologies.
Digital technology can look different depending on your industry or major. Consider the specific tools, software or programs you must be familiar with to be prepared for your future career. Utilize LinkedIn Learning, a free resource for all UT students that provides training on the latest technology, creative tools, and business programs.
Utilize the strengths of others to achieve common goals; use interpersonal skills to develop and motivate others.The Jones Center for Leadership and Service provides opportunities for students gain valuable leadership experience through campus programs and community service.
Exhibit effective work habits such as punctuality, working productively, personal accountability, integrity, and ethical behavior.
Identify skills, strengths, knowledge, experiences, and areas of growth related to career goals; navigate job options and pursue opportunities. Career management looks different for everyone. Make an appointment with a career coach to determine the next steps in your individual career development.
Demonstrate openness, inclusiveness, sensitivity, and the ability to interact respectfully with all people; understand individuals’ differences. By getting involved with the I-House, diverse student organizations, or studying abroad you can increase your global and intercultural fluency.
Get Career Ready!
Self Assessments |
You can use these self-assessments to evaluate your current progress and identify goals for further development:
Career Readiness Self-Assessment |
Experiential Learning |
Visit our Gaining Experience section to learn top 5 ways students develop career competencies. |
Staff & Faculty |
Utilize the Career Readiness Competencies with students you work with in job descriptions, evaluations, and training.
Find resources for student employees on our Enriched Student Employment page. College to Career Connections – Reference how Vol Core and class assignments support career readiness |
*According to the 2019 NACE Job Outlook Survey
National Association of Colleges and Employers: Learn more about NACE and the definition of Career Readiness and Competencies.