Building Skills to Stay Competitive

Though technical skills are important to employers, what is invaluable to an employer is finding a student who can work well in the current employment environment. Employers consistently look for students who can:

  • Communicate effectively
  • Work well on teams
  • Adapt to challenges
  • Build professional relationships alongside their technical abilities

Studies have shown that students believe they exercise these traits well. However, when students are put in workplace scenarios, employers find these skills to be absent or dull in practice. 

How do you strengthen these skills?

The main driver for strengthening these skills is leaning in with open-mindedness & intent to improve. Students can strengthen interpersonal skills through several key NACE competencies:

  • Communication: Practice explaining technical ideas clearly to different audiences, participate in presentations, contribute during meetings, & develop professional email and networking skills.
  • Teamwork: Work on collaborative projects, student organizations, research teams, or group assignments that require cooperation, accountability, & conflict resolution.
  • Leadership: Take initiative in class projects, campus involvement, or workplace settings by organizing tasks, supporting peers, & helping groups achieve goals.
  • Professionalism: Build reliability, time management, adaptability, & respectful workplace behavior through internships, campus jobs, & consistent professional interactions.
  • Career & Self-Development: Seek feedback, attend workshops, network with professionals, & reflect on areas for personal & professional growth.

Schedule an appointment with a Career advisor to learn more about how you can further develop these skills & obtain the internship you desire!