Discussion #1 – Researching the Field

Find 3 entry-level job listings in your chosen field/profession and pull at least 3 required and/or desired requirements for each job listing.

For each of the requirements, answer the following questions:

  • How do you think the employer is defining the skill? How are you defining the skill?
  • What experience (paid, volunteer, or classroom) do you have to demonstrate this skill?
  • What can you do in the current, or following, semester(s) to help add that skill to your career toolbox?


Example Response:
  • Features and Content Specialist, Cobb County School District
    • Requirement 1: Strong writing and editing skills
      • The employer defines this skill as the ability to write clear, engaging, and error-free content for various platforms, as well as the capability to revise and improve existing materials for accuracy and readability. I define strong writing and editing skills as being able to communicate ideas effectively in writing, adapt my tone for different audiences, and meticulously review my work to eliminate mistakes.
      • Throughout high school, I wrote for our newspaper and served as an editor in my senior year.
      • This semester, I can strengthen this skill by contributing articles to the campus newspaper or blog, seeking feedback from peers or professors, and utilizing online tools or the writing center to refine my editing techniques.
    • Requirement 2: Experience with digital content management systems
      • The employer probably expects candidates to be comfortable using platforms like WordPress or Drupal to create, update, and organize web content, ensuring information is accessible and visually appealing. I define this skill as being able to navigate a CMS interface, upload and format content, manage media, and troubleshoot basic functionality issues.
      • I currently do not have experience with this skill; however, I am glad to learn about the need for this information now.
      • To build this skill, I can volunteer to manage the website for a student organization or take a free online course in a popular CMS, practicing with real content updates throughout the semester.
    • Requirement 3: Ability to collaborate with multiple departments and stakeholders
      • The employer is likely looking for someone who can work effectively with colleagues from different backgrounds, gather input, and coordinate efforts to produce cohesive content that meets organizational goals. I define this skill as being open to others’ perspectives, communicating clearly, and managing feedback constructively to achieve shared objectives.
      • As part of my volunteer work with my church, I consistently must work with different offices to ensure all of the necessary information is shared with members.
      • This semester, I can research potential opportunities for a cross-disciplinary project or committee on campus, where I’ll have the chance to work with students and faculty from various departments, practicing collaboration and communication in a professional context.
  • Proposal Writer
    • Requirement 1: Proposal writing
    • Requirement 2: Research and analysis
    • Requirement 3: Collaboration and team work