Checklist

How can you help young people see what's possible for their futures—and feel confident taking the next step? Grounded in national research, this practical workbook helps organizations communicate more effectively about career education and training opportunities. Use the exercises, checklists, and interview guides to craft messages that connect with learners' ambitions, make education and career options easier to understand and compare, and tell compelling stories that inspire action. Whether you're developing outreach materials, updating a program website, or sharing learner success stories, this workbook offers tools to make your communications more compelling and useful.

When you’re talking to learners, every word counts. The right message doesn’t just inform—it inspires confidence, shows what’s possible, and helps people take the next step toward a career they’re proud of.

When learners see real options that fit their lives, they lean in.

Before you share your materials, use this checklist to make sure you’re putting your best foot forward and
help move learners from interest to action.

Effective communication helps employers embrace skill-based hiring with clarity and confidence.

When engaging employers, your message should do more than explain—it should validate their instincts, address their concerns, and show that skill-based hiring is a smart, achievable step they can take now.

Employers are ready for better solutions. The right message shows them it’s within reach. Before sharing your materials, use this checklist to make sure you’re helping employers move from interest to action.