Lewis University | Academics | General Education Curriculum - Career Insights

Career Insights

What career readiness competencies do employers value most in their new college hires? Employers responding to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Job Outlook Survey over the past three years have consistently indicated that the following competencies are essential for entry-level candidates and prospective employees.

96% Ethical Judgment Fundamental
100%
Critical Thinking Essential
94% Exhibit Ongoing Learning


Career Readiness Competencies

  • Critical Thinking/Problem Solving: Individuals will exercise sound reasoning to analyze issues, make decisions, and overcome problems as well as obtain, interpret, and use knowledge, facts and data in this process.

  • Teamwork/Collaboration: Individuals will build collaborative relationships with colleagues and customers representing diverse cultures, races, ages, genders, religions, lifestyles, and viewpoints and be able to work within a team structure.

  • Professionalism/Work Ethic: Individuals will demonstrate personal accountability and effective work habits, such as punctuality, time management and non-verbal communication. They will act responsibly with integrity and the interests of the larger community in mind.

  • Oral/Written Communication: Individuals will be able to articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively in written and oral forms to persons inside and outside the organization.

Other competencies highlighted in the survey include digital technology, leadership, career management, and global/multicultural fluency.

Source: Job Outlook 2019, National Association of Colleges and Employers

Employers expect new college graduates to be proficient in these skills. Lewis University’s general education program enables students to develop higher levels of proficiency in these skills. As a result, you will develop more confidence and be better prepared to handle real-world scenarios upon entering the workforce.

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