Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities in DEM Recruitments

DEM seeks to leverage a Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) approach to recruit and evaluate candidates during the recruitment process. Through the use of KSAs, DEM will be able to more efficiently identify the best possible talent across all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. It is expected that all DEM recruitments will utilize KSAs to define required & preferred qualifications. 

KSAs Defined

  • Knowledge – The candidates understanding of concepts, their academic background, and/or their industry-specific expertise.
    • Example: Software developers likely need industry-specific knowledge related to programming languages, software development methods, and emerging technologies.
  • Skills – The practical abilities that candidates can acquire through previous education, training, and job experience.
    • Example: A communication and marketing specialist likely should be proficient in written and verbal communication, skills in using digital communication platforms, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Abilities – The traits, talents, and/or developed proficiencies a candidate brings to a specific task or situation.
    • Example: An Advisor likely should have demonstrated ability of empathy when working with students, work effectively with campus partners, and be adaptable in new situations.

KSAs in Practice

How to Quantify Years of Experience

It can be common practice to reference education and years of experience as qualifications for job opportunities. This tends to provide an easy quantitative measurement when screening applications, however, it does introduce sometimes significant barriers into the process which prevent very qualified and talented candidates from considering our opportunities. We strongly encourage considering what is behind a specific educational or years of experience requirement which makes it essential for success in a role. KSAs can help us in utilizing plain language to capture the true qualification necessary for the role rather than the sometimes arbitrary years of experience.

Below are important questions that should be considered when determining any specific years of experience criteria:

  • What is necessary for a person to be successful in this role first day on the job?
  • What do the minimum requirements for the job look like in practice?
  • What knowledge, skills, and abilities do we expect someone who has this degree or years of experience to have?
  • Is it crucial that these knowledge, skills, and abilities exist on an individual’s first day on the job?
  • Can certain knowledge, skills, and abilities be learned on the job?
  • What specifically about the years of experience brings value to the job? For example, if requiring 7 years in a certain industry or role, perhaps what we’re really looking for is a certain level of knowledge or ability that can be detailed.

DEM strongly encourages that no years of experience be required unless absolutely necessary. Entry level roles within the Division should never have a required number of years of experience. 

DEM KSA Library

The DEM KSA library is intended to share examples of KSA-based language that can be utilized in job qualifications. While it is encouraged to consider the KSA-based language within this library when developing job qualifications, it is not required. If a new qualification is being created, we should always make all attempts to leverage a KSA-approach. Connect with your DEM HR representative if you would like assistance in establishing your job qualifications.

 

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  • Nimble and responsive approach to project management in a dynamic environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing circumstances and adopt new solutions through [insert specific examples for the job].
  • Demonstrates an understanding of changing work environments, evolving technologies, and industry trends. 
  • Capable of adapting communication styles to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
  • Demonstrates ability to shift priorities, multitask, and handle unexpected tasks efficiently. 
  • Skilled in remaining calm under pressure and navigates unexpected challenges. 
  • Demonstrates ability to quickly adjust to new situations, learns new skills, and embraces change. 
  • Demonstrates flexibility in adjusting to different team structures, work styles, and project requirements.  

 

  • Demonstrated conflict management and analytical skills, including the ability to proactively identify risks/issues.
  • Capable of using sound judgment and reasoning in managing conflict and resolving problems.
  • Capacity to use tact, courtesy and discretion in dealing with faculty, staff, students, high-level University officials, and the public.
  • Ability to remain calm and courteous under pressure and navigating tense situations.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of effective communication strategies including adjusting language and nonverbal cues when communicating.

 

  • Demonstrates a high degree of self-awareness with an interest in giving and receiving positive and constructive feedback, as well as seeking out opportunities to learn and grow.
  • Ability to be engaged in ongoing learning and adapt to a variety of technical systems.
  • Ability to learn, understand and comply with complex [insert descriptor] policies and procedures.
  • Ability to retain and manage details pertaining to complex processes.
  • Demonstrates awareness of the importance of lifelong learning.  
  • Understands the value of staying updated on industry trends, new technologies, and best practices. 
  • Familiar with various learning resources such as online courses, workshops, conferences, and professional journals.
  • Possesses the ability to independently seek out learning opportunities. Can identify relevant courses, webinars, or certifications.
  • Skilled at quickly understanding and applying new knowledge, and can integrate fresh insights into their work effectively.
  • Has a natural curiosity and eagerness to explore new topics. This can include asking questions and seeking out information.
  • Balances work responsibilities with ongoing learning by allocating time for skill development and growth.  

 

  • Demonstrated knowledge of data analysis, quantitative research design, and information management.
  • Demonstrated knowledge in database management, particularly managing administrative data.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with data management and analysis tools like Stata, R, Tableau, or other similar software.
  • Capacity for evaluating current processes and identifying areas for improvement.
  • Ability to leverage data and technology in support of application generation, file review, benchmarking, decision-making, and making strategic recommendations.

 

  • Strategic ability and decision-making skills, including the ability to support the development and implementation of a roadmap for planning and carrying out a vision.
  • Ability to leverage data and technology in support of decision-making and making strategic recommendations.
  • Demonstrated commitment to data-driven decision-making, including effective analytical skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to exercise judgment, take initiative, and seek solutions to problems and improvements, sometimes in the moment and/or in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the decision-making process including analyzing situations, identifying challenges, and generating effective solutions. 

 

  • Demonstrates knowledge of assessing and addressing various audience needs and gaps as well as tailoring learning content and delivery accordingly.
  • Demonstrated ability to facilitate virtual, in-person, and hybrid meetings and building positive working relationships.
  • Ability to effectively support and motivate cross-functional teams in making progress towards goals and decision-making.
  • Ability to engage key partners and seek multiple perspectives.
  • Demonstrated ability to utilize an equity and access lens when developing materials and facilitating learning opportunities.
  • Skilled at understanding participants’ perspectives and addressing their needs during facilitation.

 

  • Demonstrates excellent interpersonal, teamwork, collaboration, public speaking, and frontline service skills.
  • Skilled oral and written communication with significant public speaking abilities and excellent frontline service skills.
  • Ability to communicate with diverse and multilingual audiences and/or proficiency in one or more languages in addition to English.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of frontline service principles and communication techniques.
  • Ability to address customer concerns and find solutions.
  • Demonstrated ability to remain calm and composed during challenging interactions.  

 

  • Demonstrates interpersonal communication skills especially as it relates to working with various partners towards a common goal.
  • Ability to develop trust and goodwill with new and existing partners.
  • Demonstrated ability to encourage creativity and innovation, cultivate trust, and instill strong team dynamics within a team, including [insert specific examples].
  • Demonstrated communication abilities to catalog and communicate recurring and ad-hoc projects.
  • Excellent organizational, interpersonal skills and front-line service skills.
  • Outstanding oral and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated awareness of team dynamics and ability to co-create environments where participants feel included, valued, and heard.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of different communication styles (e.g., direct, indirect, assertive) and their impact on effective interactions.
  • Understands the importance of active listening, paraphrasing, and asking clarifying questions during conversations. 

 

  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community.
  • Capable of working with historically underrepresented backgrounds, including students of color, low-income, first-generation, and rural students.
  • Ability to connect with diverse audiences and promote diversity in higher education.
  • Proficiency with reading, writing and speaking in a language(s) besides English.
  • Cultural competence through active listening, seeking understanding of a diversity of perspectives, and respecting lived cultural experiences.
  • Demonstrated ability to counsel and/or recruit students/families from diverse cultural communities.
  • Demonstrated understanding of and appreciation for a broad range of learning styles, backgrounds, and perspectives.
  • Capable of considering equity and access when developing materials and facilitating learning to ensure participants have equitable access to the learning environment.

 

  • Demonstrated knowledge of issues related to higher education, student success, and education research.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of college access, student success, and/or student financial aid policies and practices.
  • Knowledge of the higher education recruitment cycle, best practices, and trends in attracting, recruiting, admitting, and enrolling students, including appropriate professional standards and codes of ethics (such as NACAC’s Statement of Principles of Good Practices).
  • Knowledge of strategic enrollment management and the college admissions process.
  • Demonstrated understanding of both US and international secondary and post-secondary curricula.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the international education, admissions, and recruitment landscape, including international application review, educational systems, recruitment markets, and/or visa processes.
  • Demonstrate a high level of sensitivity and confidentiality around the review process and adherence to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).
  • Ability to understand the processes and corresponding responsibilities, dates and deadlines of all admissions and enrollment units.
  • Knowledge of the college admission cycle and experience reviewing applications, admitting, and enrolling students at a selective institution and/or high-volume admissions office.
  • Understanding of databases and data structures.
  • Skilled at using and managing software, including event registration systems, content management systems, e-mail systems, spreadsheets, word processing, databases, presentation software, and internet applications.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of college admissions, pre-college programs, or college access organizations.
  • Capable of working with students/families from backgrounds historically underrepresented in higher education.
  • Demonstrated ability to attract, recruit, admit, and enroll undergraduate students from international backgrounds.
  • Capable of evaluating applications through a selective admission process.
  • Proven capabilities in data analysis and query writing/SQL.
  • Proven capabilities in call center, customer service, and/or supervisory experience.
  • Proven ability to create process documentation, business process review, business requirements, and developing and conducting testing plans.

 

  • Demonstrated abilities within project management or leadership on research/evaluation teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to encourage creativity and innovation, cultivate trust, and instill strong team dynamics within a team.
  • Proactive and self-directed leader with excellent judgement, communication, and team-building skills.
  • Demonstrated interest in linking research, policy, and practice.
  • Demonstrated leadership in guiding strategic initiatives.
  • Proven ability to influence change at all levels of the organization.
  • Ability to empower of decision-makers to ensure project success.
  • Capable of supervising and developing team members.
  • Capable of supervising student staff including scheduling, evaluations, and/or training.
  • Exceptional people management skills, with experience managing complex teams that include fulltime, seasonal, and/or student staff
  • Demonstrated knowledge of equitable supervision practices. 
  • Demonstrated knowledge of team development and the different stages of team engagement.
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  • Demonstrates an understanding of and appreciation for diversity as it applies to identity, thought, experience, and ability.
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain positive and respectful working relationships with others.
  • Capable of leveraging a collaborative, service-oriented and inclusive workstyle.

 

  • Ability to cultivate partnerships and build relationships.
  • Ability to present and facilitate meetings with various partners.
  • Proven ability to engage key stakeholders and seek multiple perspectives in the development of [insert specifics].
  • Demonstrated ability to cultivate partnerships across various groups, such as [insert examples].
  • Capable of collaborating with faculty, staff, and administrators to enhance enrollment efforts.
  • Effective verbal and written communication for interacting with prospective students, families, and colleagues.
  • Strong emotional intelligence and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to actively listen to partner needs and incorporate them into future planning.
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical users.
  • Ability to develop trust and build goodwill with new and existing partners.

 

  • Ability to effectively manage multiple initiatives in collaboration with others within an ambiguous and dynamic environment.
  • Excellent planning and organizational skills with a high degree of attention to detail.
  • Ability to think strategically and manage multiple project workflows.
  • Proven ability as a project manager, particularly on cross-functional, ad-hoc projects.
  • Demonstrated knowledge in planning, analyzing, managing, coordinating, and tracking projects and quality improvement efforts in a way that’s nimble and responsive to the needs of a high volume, complex, and dynamic organization.
  • Demonstrated ability to simultaneously manage multiple projects, adapt to changing circumstances, and adopt new solutions through leveraging existing knowledge, technology, and data tools.
  • Capable of seeking input from stakeholders, subject matter experts, and networks, incorporating new experiences to inform perspectives, proficiency in or ability to learn various software solutions, and/or data-informed approaches.
  • Ability to be effective in fast-paced and deadline driven environments will be important.
  • Ability to lead and empower stakeholders to achieve project deliverables and milestones.
  • Exceptional attention to detail.

 

  • Strong public speaking skills with demonstrated experience in creating and presenting information in a variety of learning styles.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of assessing and addressing various audience needs and gaps, tailoring learning content and delivery accordingly.
  • Ability to present and facilitate meetings with various partner groups.
  • Outstanding oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills including demonstrated public speaking experience and excellent front-line service skills.
  • Ability to effectively synthesize large amounts of process and policy information into clear public messages across communication channels.

 

  • Affinity and familiarity with multiple research methods and software programs.
  • Experience managing complex research projects in a team environment.

 

  • Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, including the ability to align initiatives with organizational goals and objectives.
  • Proficient in developing and executing strategic plans to maximize synergies, efficiencies, and productivity across the office.
  • Ability to leverage data and technology in support of application generation, file review, benchmarking, decision-making, and making strategic recommendations.
  • Skilled in identifying new opportunities for growth and innovation.
  • Demonstrated leadership in guiding strategic initiatives.
  • Demonstrated strategic ability and decision-making skills, including the ability to develop and implement a roadmap for planning and carrying out a vision.

 

  • Can effectively utilize collaboration skills to work effectively with [insert roles/groups].
  • Works effectively both as a member of a team as well as independently.
  • Capable of learning about a complex organization and the nuances between roles and teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop positive working relationships and cultivate trust.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in close collaboration with creative and content teams.
  • Capable of working across multiple team settings including [insert roles/groups].
  • Demonstrated ability to work with marginalized groups, including [insert specific groups].
  • Ability to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively across teams within a large organization.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of how teams function, including roles, communication patterns, and conflict resolution strategies. 
  • Understands the stages of team development (forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning) and how to facilitate effective collaboration. 
  • Proficient in active listening, expressing ideas clearly, and providing constructive feedback within a team. 
  • Able to work harmoniously with diverse team members, leveraging their strengths and contributing to shared goals. 
  • Skilled in resolving disagreements, finding common ground, and maintaining positive team dynamics. 
  • Understands team members’ perspectives, shows empathy, and fosters a supportive environment. 
  • Exhibits leadership qualities when needed, such as facilitating discussions, motivating others, and promoting cooperation.  

 

  • Proven capabilities and background in a variety of roles within [insert specific detailed experiences].
  • Proven capabilities in managing public-facing communications projects and project management and/or process improvement.
  • Proven knowledge and capability with PeopleSoft Campus Solutions, or similar.
  • Proven capabilities in event planning, logistics, and execution, including overseeing multiple, concurrent projects while still meeting strict deadlines.

Resources