Career Readiness

Career Readiness NACE Core Competencies

BECOME CAREER READY! DO YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS? What is Career readiness?

“Career readiness is a foundation from which to demonstrate requisite core competencies that broadly prepare the college educated for success in the workplace and lifelong career management.” (NACE) What do you as a student need to know to be Career ready?

It is imperative that students are aware of the competencies and skills employers are seeking. This can be explored by students taking the FOCUS-II career assessment. This can be found on the Career & Professional Development website. (www.umes.edu/careers) This is an on-line, interactive career exploration tool/assessment that combines career exploration and decision making into one comprehensive tool. FOCUS 2 can assist students in determining the right major that supports their career goals.

Students will have the ability to evaluate which competencies are their strengths, evolve while also learning how to identify additional experiences to expand and built on each competency.

There have been eight core transferable skills (known as key competencies) that have been identified by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) that will assist with preparing students to enter into a global workforce. These skills can be developed through volunteer services, internships, student organizations, community service and academics. The University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Career & Professional Center is dedicated to assisting students with developing and strengthening these competencies. Students must acquire a sense of confidence about their skills, so when they navigate and transition into the workforce it will hopefully be a positive experience. These competencies apply to many career fields. It is important that students understand what interest you and what you are good at. This will result in a positive workforce transition. If you develop an initial career focus it will help you narrow options and search for appropriate employers related to your selected major. However, remember it is fine if you change your mind as you learn more about yourself. This process is a learning experience. Below are the Core Competencies.

courtesy of the National Association of Colleges and Employers