What are competencies?

Competencies are the knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors that help you be successful in your career. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) identifies key career readiness competencies that reflect what employers value and expect. 

Explore below to learn how to engage with these competencies on campus and continue developing your skills. 

Career & Self-Development

Proactively developing yourself both personally and professionally through continuous learning, self-awareness, and career exploration. 

Communication

Clearly and effectively sharing ideas, information, and perspectives through verbal, written, and nonverbal communication. 

Critical Thinking

Identifying and analyzing information to make informed decisions, solve problems, and respond to complex situations. 

yellow symbol of a person supporting another

Teamwork

Working collaboratively with others, valuing diverse perspectives, and sharing responsibility to achieve common goals. 

Leadership

Recognizing and building on strengths to guide, motivate, and support others in achieving shared goals. 

Professionalism

Demonstrating accountability, integrity, and effective work habits while contributing positively to academic and professional environments. 

Technology

Using technology effectively and ethically to complete tasks, solve problems, and support decision-making. 

Self-reflection

After you have become involved, come back to this page to consider these self-reflection questions. These questions will help you reflect on what you have learned and how you can apply it in the future. 

Questions

  • What is a competency you have developed as a result of this experience? 

  • How did you use this competency during this experience? 

  • What abilities did you need to leverage this competency? 

  • What knowledge did you gain related to this competency? 

  • How would you describe this competency on your resume or during a job interview? 

  • What motivation do you have to continue developing this competency? 

Learn More

For detailed descriptions and sample behaviors for each competency, visit: https://careers.uiowa.edu/career-ready#career