Module 1: Background You’ll Need

  • Explore communication and professionalism as career skills

Career Skills[1]

Communication

The ability to clearly and effectively exchange information is a critical skill for your career development. Communication includes written and verbal forms.

  • Written communication can be presented in text messages, emails, memos, letters, reports, slides, or other forms.
  • Verbal communication can take place in person, by phone, by video conferencing, or can be recorded.

What is important to note is that in each form of communication, you will need to consider the context and the tone that is considered customary and professional for that particular situation. You also need to consider the purpose of your communication. Are you simply presenting information or do you need to convince a decision maker to agree with your analysis and adopt your recommendations? Are you updating a coworker with whom you have an established relationship or are you trying to get to know someone new to your team? Always consider your audience before you decide what to say.

Professionalism

Professionalism is a skill that involves a lot more than showing up to work on time. Being skilled at professionalism means that you understand that work environments can be very different, that you demonstrate effective work habits, and that you act in a way that furthers the interest of your workplace and the larger community.

Some examples of professionalism are:

  • Behaving in a way that aligns with organizational values, even when you are not at work.
  • Being present (not distracted) and prepared to contribute.
  • Demonstrate dependability, for example, by consistently arriving on time for work and meetings and meeting deadlines.
  • Give attention to details so that there are few, if any, errors in your work.
  • Display a positive attitude and a high level of dedication to doing your job well.

Listen to former First Lady Michelle Obama describe the characteristics of professionalism.

You can view the transcript for “Michelle Obama’s Who Are You Gonna Be” here (opens in new window).

  1. “CAREER READINESS COMPETENCIES.” 2022. NACE. National Association of Colleges and Employers. https://www.naceweb.org/uploadedfiles/files/2022/resources/2022-nace-career-readiness-development-and-validation.pdf. ↵