Are you CAREER READY?
Welcome back! The purpose of these blog postin
gs is to serve as a guide to enabling you to be career ready at the time of your graduation. It is important to remember that mastery of the eight career readiness competencies will increase your chances to successfully “land” an entry-level position right after graduation.
The fourth of the eight competencies is Digital Technology. NACE defines this as the following: Leverage existing digital technologies ethically and efficiently to solve problems, complete tasks, and accomplish goals. The individual demonstrates effective adaptability to new and emerging technologies.
There are many opportunities during college to master the use of Digital Technologies. Employers will be looking for individuals that can apply computer skills to solve problems in the most efficient manner. The ethical use of technology is also critical in every career as being a responsible digital citizen is very important to any work environment. Students should consider taking technology courses as electives to expand their résumé or receive tech credentials through courses or workshops online. Companies or organizations will look for individuals who value continuous improvement as new and emerging technologies are developed.
The following is a brief list of ways to practice the use of digital technologies:
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- Learn design software such as Photoshop and InDesign to create brochures or flyers
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- Master the use of Excel to track budget expenses and make projections
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- Develop presentations for classes or organizations that you are a member of now
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- Establish a level of proficiency with multiple types of software programs
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- Find an internship where your use of digital technologies will be required
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- Select and use appropriate technologies to accomplish daily tasks and goals
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- Keep up to date on emerging technologies related to your career path
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- Explore online courses or workshops that provide a certification that you can add to your résumé
- Volunteer to maintain digital records for a club or organization that you participate in
The goal of securing your dream job after graduation involves mastering current digital technologies and an openness to learning as new software is published.
Patrick J. Clifford is the Director of Career & Professional Development at Albertus Magnus College. He has degrees from both Fairfield and Southern Connecticut Universities and is a National Certified Counselor and Licenced Professional Counselor in the State of Connecticut.