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Media and Communication Workers, All Other

SOC 27-3099.00Job Zone —v.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers media and communication professionals working across creative, editorial, digital, and client-facing contexts in advertising agencies, media production companies, and communications departments at Job Zone 3 preparation level.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Client requirements — gather and record under direct supervision during initial project intake meetings in a media production environment.
  2. Desktop publishing software — operate basic functions to format documents and layouts under guidance from a senior team member.
  3. Creative briefs — read and interpret to identify key deliverables before beginning assigned tasks in a communications department.
  4. Draft layouts — prepare using graphics or photo imaging software following established templates provided by a creative director.
  5. Active listening skills — apply during team briefings to capture accurate notes on project goals and client expectations.
  6. Document management software — organize and file project assets according to department naming and version-control conventions.
  7. Written copy — proofread for grammar and style errors using basic editorial checklists in a fast-paced media production setting.
  8. Department heads — communicate clearly when requesting clarification on assigned tasks across creative, copywriting, or production teams.
  9. Project deadlines and budget guidelines — follow as directed by a supervisor when completing routine media communication assignments.
  10. Video creation and editing software — perform basic import, trim, and export functions on assigned short-form content under supervision.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Design solutions — develop collaboratively with creative directors by contributing original concepts during brainstorming sessions for client campaigns.
  2. Final layouts — present to internal stakeholders for review, incorporating feedback to refine deliverables before client submission.
  3. Client accounts — manage day-to-day communications and project milestones while working within established budget and scheduling parameters.
  4. Graphics and photo imaging software — apply intermediate techniques to produce polished visual assets for print and digital media channels.
  5. Cross-departmental requirements — discuss and reconcile with art, copywriting, and production teams to ensure cohesive project execution.
  6. Web platform development software — update and maintain content on organizational websites in response to campaign and editorial schedules.
  7. Time management strategies — implement to balance multiple concurrent media projects without exceeding approved resource allocations.
  8. Marketing and communications principles — apply when selecting messaging approaches that align client objectives with target audience needs.
  9. Social perceptiveness — exercise when reading client or colleague reactions during presentations to adjust tone and messaging in real time.
  10. Video production workflows — coordinate editing tasks, including sequencing and audio syncing, for promotional or informational media content.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Client-ready design solutions — develop autonomously by translating complex briefs into strategic visual and written media deliverables.
  2. Final presentation packages — construct and deliver to clients, guiding approval discussions and negotiating revisions across multiple project formats.
  3. Full project portfolios — manage independently, maintaining on-time, on-budget delivery across simultaneous accounts in a competitive media environment.
  4. Creative, art, and production department leaders — engage proactively to align cross-functional contributions with overarching campaign objectives.
  5. Non-routine communication challenges — resolve by applying critical thinking and originality to devise novel approaches for complex client problems.
  6. Document management systems — architect and maintain for a project team, ensuring version integrity and accessibility of all media assets.
  7. Advanced desktop publishing and graphics workflows — integrate across tools to produce broadcast-quality publications and multi-platform content packages.
  8. Editorial and brand standards — enforce consistently across all written and visual outputs, coaching junior staff on quality expectations.
  9. Sales and marketing analytics — interpret to evaluate campaign effectiveness and adjust media communication strategies for improved client outcomes.
  10. Stakeholder presentations — lead with confidence, using oral expression and structured narratives to persuade senior clients and executive audiences.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Organizational creative direction — set by establishing media communication standards, brand voice guidelines, and visual identity frameworks across the enterprise.
  2. Strategic client relationships — cultivate at the executive level, translating long-term business goals into innovative media and communications campaigns.
  3. Departmental budgets and project pipelines — oversee at scale, allocating resources and prioritizing accounts to maximize organizational output and profitability.
  4. Emerging media technologies — evaluate and champion adoption of new video, publishing, and web platform tools that advance the organization's competitive position.
  5. Cross-functional leadership teams — convene and guide, aligning creative, production, copywriting, and client services divisions around unified campaign strategies.
  6. Talent development programs — design and implement to accelerate the growth of emerging and developing media communication professionals within the organization.
  7. Industry best practices and innovation — drive by synthesizing market trends, O*NET competency standards, and organizational learning into evolving workflow methodologies.
  8. High-stakes client presentations — orchestrate at the organizational level, representing the agency or department as principal spokesperson for major account decisions.
  9. Quality assurance frameworks — institute across all media output channels, establishing review protocols that uphold excellence in written, visual, and digital communications.
  10. Organizational culture of adaptability and achievement — model and foster by recognizing exemplary work, setting ambitious performance benchmarks, and mentoring senior practitioners.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-drafted content review — reads AI-generated copy and layout suggestions against a creative brief, flagging mismatches in tone or audience fit before passing materials to senior staff Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Basic prompt construction — supplies an AI writing tool with client-provided background and messaging goals to generate initial draft options, then forwards the strongest candidate for team review.
Developing
  1. Client requirement synthesis — feeds meeting notes and creative briefs into an AI assistant to extract key deliverables and scheduling constraints, then cross-checks the output against original source documents Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Draft iteration management — cycles AI-generated copy or design concepts through multiple prompt revisions, applying active-listening insights from client calls to steer tone and messaging Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Cross-department communication support — uses AI summarization to condense discussions with creative, copywriting, and production heads into concise status updates distributed to project stakeholders.
Proficient
  1. Layout presentation preparation — directs an AI tool to generate slide narratives and talking-point outlines for client approval meetings, then rewrites every section where stakeholder-specific nuance is required Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Budget and schedule modelling — queries an AI assistant with project parameters to surface scheduling conflicts and cost variances, retaining final judgment on resource allocation decisions.
  3. Audience-response evaluation — applies critical-thinking review to AI-produced audience analysis reports, identifying gaps in social perceptiveness that automated tools cannot capture and annotating the findings for creative directors Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  4. Multi-account content orchestration — manages parallel AI-assisted content pipelines across several client accounts, setting editorial guardrails and approval checkpoints that keep brand voice consistent without manual drafting of every asset WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Strategic creative direction with AI scaffolding — instructs AI agents to prototype full campaign concepts across copy, layout, and channel strategy, then architects the final solution by synthesizing AI outputs with qualitative client insight that falls outside automation feasibility Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. AI workflow governance — designs team-level protocols specifying which communication and content tasks are handed to AI tools versus reserved for human judgment, calibrating handoff boundaries against the occupation's mid-range automation feasibility score Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Cross-functional AI integration leadership — coordinates with creative, production, and copywriting department heads to embed AI-assisted drafting and review stages into shared project pipelines, establishing quality criteria and sign-off standards for AI-generated deliverables WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication16 statements
Emerging
  1. Media message drafting — constructs basic written and verbal content for assigned projects using standard formats and established style guides Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client intake summary — records client requirements from initial briefings through structured note-taking and active listening during project kickoff meetings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Platform vocabulary — uses foundational media and communications terminology when discussing project needs with supervisors or team leads O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Audience awareness — identifies the intended audience for a communication piece before drafting initial content under supervisor guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-department liaison — conveys client requirements and creative direction clearly when conferring with copywriting, art, or production department heads on active projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Layout presentation prep — organizes verbal explanations and visual walkthroughs to present draft layouts to internal reviewers before client-facing reviews O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Written deliverable refinement — revises written content based on editorial feedback, demonstrating growing command of tone, clarity, and audience fit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Stakeholder update communication — provides timely written and verbal project status updates to creative directors and account managers within defined reporting structures O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Client presentation delivery — presents final layouts and communication concepts to clients with confident verbal narration, fielding questions and incorporating real-time feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-channel content execution — produces clear, audience-calibrated messaging across print, digital, and broadcast formats with consistent voice and accuracy O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Creative brief interpretation — translates complex client briefs into actionable direction for cross-functional teams through precise spoken and written communication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Conflict de-escalation messaging — addresses client or stakeholder concerns through diplomatic, solution-focused language that preserves professional relationships Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational communication strategy — establishes communication standards and templates for project teams, elevating consistency and clarity across all client-facing and internal outputs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Executive-level presentation leadership — crafts and delivers high-stakes presentations to senior clients or executive stakeholders, synthesizing complex media strategies into compelling narratives O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentored communication coaching — guides junior media workers in developing their writing, presentation, and active-listening skills through structured feedback and modeling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Cross-industry thought communication — authors articles, case studies, or white papers that position the organization as a media and communications authority O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership16 statements
Emerging
  1. Project ownership initiation — accepts responsibility for discrete media tasks and delivers them on time without requiring repeated direction from supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer contribution modeling — demonstrates punctuality, preparation, and accountability in team settings, setting an early example for professional conduct Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Self-directed task sequencing — organizes personal workload across concurrent media assignments using basic prioritization methods O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Creative feedback receptivity — receives direction from creative directors and applies it constructively to improve deliverables without requiring escalation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Project coordination support — assists creative directors in tracking timelines, flagging risks, and coordinating inputs from copywriting and production departments on assigned accounts O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Initiative in problem identification — surfaces project bottlenecks or misalignments with client requirements to supervisors before they escalate into delivery failures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer collaboration facilitation — takes an informal lead in small team discussions, ensuring all contributors understand their roles and deadlines on shared media projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Account self-management — manages own portfolio of accounts within approved budgets and schedules with minimal supervisory oversight O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Creative team direction — leads cross-functional project teams including designers, copywriters, and producers toward cohesive deliverables that meet client specifications on time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client relationship stewardship — takes accountability for client satisfaction throughout a project lifecycle, making decisive calls on scope, revisions, and delivery O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Budget and schedule leadership — manages project resources and timelines across multiple concurrent accounts, making trade-off decisions that protect quality and profitability O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Junior staff mentorship — provides consistent guidance and constructive feedback to emerging media workers, accelerating their skill development and professional confidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Departmental vision setting — partners with creative directors and senior management to define strategic priorities for the media team, translating organizational goals into executable creative direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational change leadership — champions new tools, workflows, or platforms across the media function, guiding team adoption and managing resistance with credibility and clarity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Talent development architecture — designs onboarding and professional development pathways for media communications staff that build durable skills and reduce turnover Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Cross-functional authority — earns informal authority across design, production, and marketing functions, aligning competing departmental priorities around unified client outcomes O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition16 statements
Emerging
  1. Learning gap recognition — identifies personal knowledge deficits in media tools or communication platforms and seeks targeted learning resources to address them Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Task reflection practice — reviews completed media assignments to identify what worked and what could improve before moving to the next project Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Feedback integration awareness — notices patterns in supervisor feedback across projects and begins adjusting work habits and creative approaches accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Cognitive load monitoring — recognizes when managing multiple media deadlines simultaneously is degrading output quality and communicates workload concerns proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Strategy self-assessment — evaluates the effectiveness of personal approaches to client briefs after project completion, adjusting methods for future engagements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning plan construction — builds intentional skill-development plans targeting gaps in areas such as digital media tools, copywriting, or visual communication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Error pattern analysis — tracks recurring mistakes in media deliverables across projects and implements specific corrective strategies rather than treating each error in isolation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Creative process mapping — articulates personal workflow for developing media concepts from brief to final delivery, identifying inefficiencies and optimization opportunities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Adaptive strategy deployment — switches between analytical and intuitive problem-solving approaches based on project type, client complexity, and deadline pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge transfer awareness — identifies when personal expertise in a media domain is needed by team members and proactively shares relevant frameworks and approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Performance benchmarking — compares personal output quality against professional standards in media and communications, setting measurable self-improvement targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Deadline pressure cognition — monitors own cognitive performance under time constraints and applies deliberate strategies to maintain output quality during crunch periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive modeling for teams — makes personal thinking and decision-making processes transparent to junior media workers, helping them develop their own self-monitoring practices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic learning culture promotion — advocates for and helps design reflective practice routines across the media team, such as post-mortems and retrospective reviews Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Complex brief deconstruction — breaks down ambiguous or multi-layered client briefs by explicitly mapping assumptions, knowledge gaps, and reasoning chains before committing to a creative direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Professional evolution narration — articulates a clear account of personal growth as a media professional across years of practice, using specific projects as evidence of skill progression Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking16 statements
Emerging
  1. Brief analysis — identifies the core objective, target audience, and constraints within a client brief before beginning any creative or communication work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Source credibility screening — evaluates the reliability of reference materials and research sources used to support media content development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Assumption surfacing — questions unstated assumptions in project briefs or client requests before accepting them as valid parameters for work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Option comparison — weighs at least two distinct approaches to a media communication challenge before committing to one direction under supervisor guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Client requirement interrogation — identifies gaps, contradictions, or ambiguities in client requirements and raises clarifying questions that prevent downstream rework Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Competitive media analysis — evaluates competitor messaging and design approaches to identify differentiation opportunities for client communication strategies O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Evidence-based recommendation — supports creative or strategic recommendations with research, audience data, or precedent examples rather than purely subjective preference Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Risk identification in media planning — anticipates potential reputational, legal, or brand risks embedded in proposed communication content before submission for client review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Integrated campaign critique — systematically evaluates all components of a multi-channel media campaign for logical consistency, audience alignment, and strategic coherence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Judgment under ambiguity — makes sound creative and strategic decisions on client accounts when information is incomplete, documenting rationale clearly for stakeholder review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Feedback discernment — distinguishes between feedback that reflects genuine communication failures and feedback that reflects subjective client preference, responding appropriately to each Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Budget-quality trade-off analysis — critically evaluates the cost-benefit implications of production and design choices, recommending solutions that optimize client outcomes within constraints O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Strategic communication audit — conducts comprehensive critical reviews of organizational or client communication strategies, identifying systemic weaknesses and recommending evidence-based improvements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emerging platform evaluation — critically assesses new media platforms and tools for strategic fit, audience reach, and risk before recommending organizational adoption O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-disciplinary synthesis — integrates insights from marketing, behavioral science, and media theory to build communication frameworks that outperform purely intuitive approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Argument stress-testing — challenges proposed creative or strategic directions by constructing and voicing the strongest counterarguments before final client commitment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration16 statements
Emerging
  1. Team role clarity — understands and executes assigned responsibilities within cross-functional media project teams without overstepping or duplicating others' contributions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Collaborative input sharing — contributes ideas and work-in-progress materials to team reviews in a timely manner, enabling others to build on and respond to the work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Interpersonal attentiveness — notices and responds constructively to the communication styles and working preferences of teammates during project collaboration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Shared deadline adherence — delivers individual contributions on schedule so that dependent teammates in design, copy, or production are not blocked O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-department coordination — works effectively with creative, art, copywriting, and production departments to align on client requirements and project milestones Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Constructive disagreement — raises differing creative or strategic perspectives within team settings respectfully, contributing to stronger outcomes without creating interpersonal friction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Collaborative problem-solving — joins team-level troubleshooting sessions for stalled media projects, contributing analytical and creative input toward resolution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Knowledge sharing across roles — shares relevant media platform knowledge or client insights with teammates who need it, even when not formally required to do so O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Integrated team facilitation — facilitates productive working sessions between creative directors, designers, and clients, managing group dynamics to maintain focus and generate actionable decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation in creative teams — mediates disagreements between team members over creative direction or project scope, reaching workable resolutions that protect client outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Diverse perspective integration — actively incorporates input from team members with different functional expertise into final media deliverables, producing richer and more robust outputs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Remote collaboration execution — maintains high collaboration quality across distributed or hybrid media teams using digital communication and project management tools effectively O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Collaborative ecosystem design — builds structures, norms, and rituals that sustain high-performing collaboration across media and communications teams over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Interagency partnership leadership — leads collaborative engagements between the organization and external agencies, vendors, or media partners, aligning divergent interests around shared deliverables O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Team dynamics coaching — identifies and addresses dysfunctional patterns in media project teams, restoring collaborative effectiveness through targeted facilitation and interpersonal skill-building Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Cross-functional alignment architecture — creates repeatable processes for aligning creative, marketing, and account management functions around unified client communication strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character16 statements
Emerging
  1. Professional commitment — meets project deadlines and quality standards consistently, demonstrating personal accountability for assigned media deliverables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Ethical content awareness — recognizes and flags content that may be misleading, appropriative, or harmful before it advances in the production process Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Transparent communication — reports project progress and obstacles honestly to supervisors and teammates rather than obscuring problems to avoid criticism Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Client confidentiality — handles sensitive client information and unreleased media content with appropriate discretion and respect for professional boundaries Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability in error recovery — acknowledges mistakes in media deliverables promptly, communicates impact honestly, and presents a corrective plan without deflecting responsibility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Inclusive professional conduct — treats all collaborators — regardless of role, background, or seniority — with consistent respect and professionalism in all project interactions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Credit attribution integrity — accurately attributes creative and intellectual contributions of teammates and external sources in all project documentation and client presentations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Ethical influence awareness — recognizes the persuasive power of media communication and applies that power with consideration for audience impact and social responsibility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Client trust stewardship — upholds commitments made to clients around timelines, scope, and confidentiality even when internal pressures create temptation to compromise Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Principled creative stance — declines to produce or advance media content that violates professional ethical standards, even under client or commercial pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Consistent professional presence — maintains composure, reliability, and integrity across high-pressure production periods, modeling the professional standard expected of the team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Transparent stakeholder management — communicates project risks, budget variances, and creative challenges to clients and managers with candor and appropriate context O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture leadership — models and advocates for ethical media practices within the organization, influencing team norms around content integrity, representation, and audience responsibility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational accountability standard-setting — holds self and others to high performance and integrity standards across media projects, addressing lapses constructively and consistently Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Professional reputation building — builds a track record of trustworthiness and excellence that makes clients and collaborators seek out this professional's involvement on high-stakes media work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Industry ethics contribution — participates in professional communities and discussions that shape ethical standards for media and communications practitioners Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity16 statements
Emerging
  1. Concept brainstorming participation — generates multiple initial ideas in response to a client brief, exploring different formats, tones, and visual directions before narrowing to a single approach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Reference-informed ideation — draws on diverse media references, cultural sources, and creative precedents to fuel initial concept development rather than defaulting to familiar solutions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Creative risk tolerance — submits at least one unconventional idea in team brainstorming sessions, even when uncertain of its reception Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Format experimentation — tries unfamiliar media formats or structural approaches on lower-stakes projects to expand creative range Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Client brief reframing — identifies and proposes alternative interpretations of a client brief that unlock more compelling or differentiated creative solutions than the literal request Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-medium concept translation — adapts a core creative concept across multiple media formats — digital, print, broadcast — while maintaining strategic coherence and creative impact O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Design problem divergence — generates a range of structurally distinct design solutions before converging on a recommendation, avoiding premature closure on the first viable idea Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Iterative creative refinement — improves creative concepts across multiple revision cycles using feedback, testing, and personal critical judgment rather than treating the first draft as final Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Original campaign concepting — develops distinctive, original media campaign concepts that stand out from competitive work and resonate authentically with target audiences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative direction collaboration — works with creative directors to develop solutions that balance creative ambition with client constraints, budget realities, and production feasibility O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Constraint-driven innovation — produces inventive communication solutions in response to tight budgets, compressed timelines, or narrow client briefs, treating constraints as creative parameters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Audience insight application — translates audience behavioral data and cultural insight into creative executions that feel fresh, relevant, and personally resonant to the intended viewer or reader O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Creative vision origination — conceives and champions breakthrough media communication concepts that establish new creative benchmarks for the organization or client Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Innovation process design — builds structured ideation and creative experimentation processes for media teams that consistently generate high-quality original work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Creative mentorship — develops the creative instincts of junior media workers through critique, experimentation challenges, and exposure to diverse creative influences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Emerging format pioneering — leads organizational experimentation with emerging media formats and storytelling technologies, translating early adoption into competitive creative advantage O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset16 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap acceptance — openly acknowledges areas of limited proficiency in media tools or communication formats and engages learning resources without defensiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Constructive feedback seeking — asks supervisors and creative directors for specific feedback on completed media deliverables rather than waiting passively for evaluations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Challenge engagement — volunteers for media assignments that stretch current capabilities rather than defaulting only to tasks within established comfort zones Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Setback reframing — treats rejected pitches or revised client deliverables as learning data rather than personal failures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill development commitment — pursues deliberate practice in identified growth areas — such as digital media tools, copywriting technique, or visual communication — between formal assignments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback pattern integration — identifies recurring themes across multiple rounds of feedback on media projects and makes systematic adjustments to work approach rather than one-off corrections Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Persistence through revision cycles — maintains creative engagement and quality effort across extended client revision processes without losing motivation or advocacy for the work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. New platform adoption — proactively learns emerging media platforms and tools relevant to the occupation, treating technological change as opportunity rather than disruption O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Mastery orientation — pursues deep expertise in core media communication competencies rather than settling for minimum viable proficiency, consistently raising personal performance benchmarks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship receptivity — seeks out and learns from experienced creative directors, senior media professionals, and industry thought leaders, applying insights to ongoing client work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Professional community engagement — participates in industry associations, workshops, and publications that accelerate growth and expose emerging standards in media and communications O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. High-difficulty project pursuit — actively seeks assignment to complex, high-stakes media projects that accelerate skill development even when the risk of visible failure is higher Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Growth culture cultivation — creates team environments where experimentation, honest feedback, and learning from failure are normalized and rewarded, reducing fear-driven risk aversion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous learning advocacy — champions professional development investments for the media team with organizational leadership, linking skill growth to measurable business outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Adaptive expertise demonstration — applies skills and frameworks acquired across diverse media contexts to solve novel challenges that fall outside established experience categories Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Legacy learning documentation — synthesizes career-long learning into frameworks, case studies, or mentorship materials that extend personal growth impact to the next generation of media professionals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness16 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention management in briefs — reads client briefs and creative direction documents with focused, undivided attention, resisting distraction before forming any response or interpretation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional awareness in feedback — notices personal emotional reactions to critical client or supervisor feedback and pauses before responding, maintaining professionalism Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Deadline stress recognition — identifies rising stress levels during peak production periods and applies basic regulation strategies to prevent quality degradation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Present-moment listening — gives full attention to clients and teammates during meetings and presentations, resisting the urge to formulate responses before the speaker finishes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Intentional creative engagement — approaches each media project with deliberate focus and fresh perspective rather than defaulting to habitual patterns or template-driven thinking Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Pressure response regulation — manages physiological and cognitive stress responses during client presentations or high-stakes project reviews with composure and situational awareness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Meeting presence discipline — maintains attentive, responsive engagement throughout extended client or team meetings, tracking conversational nuances that inform creative and strategic decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Workload awareness — monitors personal bandwidth honestly across concurrent media accounts, communicating overload to supervisors before it impacts deliverable quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Audience reading in real time — attends closely to client and stakeholder nonverbal cues during presentations, adjusting tone, pacing, and content in response to live signals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Purposeful communication pacing — slows the pace of verbal and written communication intentionally when clarity is at risk, ensuring comprehension rather than rushing through complex information Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Conflict de-escalation presence — maintains calm, grounded composure during contentious client or internal creative disagreements, modeling emotional regulation for the team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Intentional decision-making — pauses before committing to major creative or strategic choices on client accounts, reviewing available information and potential consequences with deliberate care Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful culture modeling — demonstrates consistent present-moment awareness and emotional regulation in all professional settings, influencing team culture toward more intentional practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. High-stakes composure leadership — maintains calm, clear-headed authority during media crises, missed deadlines, or contentious client situations, anchoring team stability through visible regulation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Systemic attention design — advocates for and implements team practices — such as structured reflection time, meeting protocols, and focus blocks — that build collective mindfulness into the media production workflow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Somatic awareness in creative work — applies awareness of physical and cognitive fatigue signals to make productive decisions about when to push through and when to rest, sustaining creative output quality over extended projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude16 statements
Emerging
  1. Deadline persistence — sustains effort and output quality on media projects through the final stages of production even when fatigue or competing demands increase Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Rejection tolerance — responds to rejected creative concepts or negative client feedback by returning to the work with renewed effort rather than withdrawing or reducing investment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Uncertainty navigation — continues productive work on client projects when direction is ambiguous or approvals are delayed, rather than halting progress while waiting for perfect clarity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. First-attempt courage — submits initial creative concepts and communications for review without excessive self-editing driven by fear of criticism Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Extended revision endurance — maintains creative quality and professional engagement across prolonged client revision cycles that test patience and commitment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adversity-driven growth — treats account losses, campaign failures, or difficult client relationships as developmental challenges that build professional strength rather than evidence of inadequacy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Competing priority management — holds performance across multiple concurrent media accounts during high-demand periods without allowing pressure to collapse attention or quality on any single project Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Uncomfortable feedback integration — processes and acts on deeply critical or emotionally challenging feedback about creative work without shutting down or becoming defensive Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained performance under pressure — delivers high-quality media communication work consistently during peak production seasons, organizational turbulence, or prolonged client uncertainty Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional courage in creative advocacy — defends well-reasoned creative and strategic recommendations to clients or senior stakeholders even when facing pushback, grounding the defense in evidence and professional judgment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Crisis response resilience — absorbs the stress of media project failures, client escalations, or sudden scope changes and leads recovery efforts with composure and forward momentum Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Long-duration project commitment — maintains creative energy and strategic rigor across multi-month media campaigns, resisting the complacency that can erode quality in extended engagements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational resilience modeling — demonstrates visible fortitude during organizational downturns, account losses, or industry disruption, providing a stabilizing presence that sustains team morale and performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous organizational advocacy — raises uncomfortable truths about creative quality, client strategy, or organizational practices to senior leadership when doing so serves the greater professional good Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Sustained innovation under adversity — continues to push for creative excellence and strategic innovation even when organizational resources, client support, or market conditions are persistently challenging Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Fortitude mentorship — helps junior media workers build personal resilience by sharing authentic accounts of professional adversity, modeling recovery, and coaching them through their own setbacks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Audience Coordinator · Audio-Visual Specialist · Continuity Manager · Graphologist · PA Announcer (Public Address Announcer) · Reader · Script Manager · Stage Technician · Train Announcer · Train Caller
RAPIDS apprenticeships
—
O*NET skills
Active ListeningSpeakingReading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingWritingSocial PerceptivenessJudgment and Decision MakingTime Management
Knowledge domains
English LanguageCommunications and MediaComputers and ElectronicsCustomer and Personal ServiceAdministration and ManagementSales and MarketingFine ArtsEducation and Training
Abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionNear VisionWritten ComprehensionSpeech ClarityOriginality
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailInnovationAdaptabilityAchievement OrientationSelf-Confidence
Technology
Document management softwareVideo creation and editing softwareGraphics or photo imaging softwareDesktop publishing softwareWeb platform development softwareOperating system software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Work with creative directors to develop design solutions.
  2. Present final layouts to clients for approval.
  3. Manage own accounts and projects, working within budget and scheduling requirements.
  4. Confer with creative, art, copywriting, or production department heads to discuss client requirements and pres
CIP education codes
09.010109.070210.0105

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.