Career Readiness Competencies
Career & Self-Development
What it means:
Understanding yourself and taking action to grow in your job, education, and future goals.
You show it when you:
- Ask your supervisor how to grow in your role.
- Attend Career Connections Center events.
- Sign up for a training session at work or online.
- Set and stick to personal goals for your job or career path.
- Identifying your strengths and areas for growth.
- Develop and maintain relationships that can help you professionally (build your professional network).
Communication
What it means:
Sharing ideas clearly by talking, writing, or using visuals.
You show it when you:
- Ask your professor or supervisor for help or feedback.
- Write professional emails to classmates, coworkers, instructors, and Westmoreland staff.
- Share information clearly during interviews, team meetings, or presentations.
- Give or receive feedback respectfully at work or in class.
- Display appropriate nonverbal/body language including facing the person who is speaking and when speaking, respecting personal space (generally an arm’s length), smiling when greeting someone or during a positive interaction.
Critical Thinking
What it means:
Thinking through problems, asking thoughtful questions, researching possible solutions, and using the information to make thoughtful decisions.
You show it when you:
- Break a work task or class assignment into steps to meet a deadline.
- Compare job offers or class schedules to make the best choice.
- Handle unexpected issues calmly and logically.
- Think through how to improve a process or task at work.
- Weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
- Consider different points of view before sharing your opinion.
Leadership
What it means:
Taking initiative and helping others grow.
You show it when you:
- Train or mentor a new coworker.
- Suggest improvements in a team meeting.
- Help lead a class or work project.
- Encourage others to participate and share ideas.
- Take on a leadership role in a student organization.
Professionalism
What it means:
Acting respectfully, responsibly, and reliably.
You show it when you:
- Arrive a few minutes early for work and your classes.
- Are present and prepared for class and work.
- Meet deadlines and follow through on responsibilities.
- Wear appropriate attire for your job or internship.
- Keep a positive attitude, even during tough situations.
- Display an attention to detail, resulting in few, if any, errors in your work.
Teamwork
What it means:
Working well with others to reach a common goal.
You show it when you:
- Listen carefully to others, taking time to understand and ask appropriate questions without interrupting.
- Contribute to a group project in class or at work.
- Respect coworkers’ and classmates’ opinions, even if they differ from yours.
- Help a teammate or coworker who is struggling.
- Stay positive and flexible during team challenges.
- Hold yourself accountable for individual and team responsibilities.
Technology
What it means:
Using digital tools to complete tasks and research information.
You show it when you:
- Use your Westmoreland email, D2L, Google Calendar, and ConexEd.
- Learn to use work-related programs (vary by employer).
- Communicate with coworkers through email or online messaging tools.
- Stay safe online and protect your own, customer, or company information.
- Familiarize yourself with how to identify misleading information, unreliable sources, and job scams.
- Navigate change and are open to learning new technologies.
Career Readiness Competencies adapted from the National Association of Colleges and Employers.