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Job outlook for business coordinators in the United States
Business coordinator job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected business coordinator job growth rate is -8% from 2018-2028.
About -286,900 new jobs for business coordinators are projected over the next decade.
Business coordinator salaries have increased 9% for business coordinators in the last 5 years.
There are over 88,478 business coordinators currently employed in the United States.
There are 78,259 active business coordinator job openings in the US.
The average business coordinator salary is $49,119.
Are business coordinator jobs in demand?
Business coordinator job and salary trends over time
Business coordinator jobs over time
Business coordinator job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 88,478 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 11,487 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 34,611 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 91,071 | 0.03% |
| 2017 | 86,026 | 0.03% |
Average business coordinator salary over time
Business coordinator salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $49,119 | $23.61 | +4.0% |
| 2025 | $47,249 | $22.72 | +2.4% |
| 2024 | $46,142 | $22.18 | +0.7% |
| 2023 | $45,802 | $22.02 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $45,167 | $21.72 | +1.3% |
Business coordinator jobs by state
Most common states for business coordinators
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 921 | 32% |
| 2 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 261 | 30% |
| 3 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 507 | 24% |
| 4 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,188 | 21% |
| 5 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 410 | 21% |
| 6 | Alaska | 739,795 | 158 | 21% |
| 7 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 209 | 20% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 195 | 20% |
| 9 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 151 | 20% |
| 10 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 918 | 19% |
| 11 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 112 | 19% |
| 12 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 128 | 18% |
| 13 | Oklahoma | 3,930,864 | 685 | 17% |
| 14 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 529 | 17% |
| 15 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 925 | 15% |
| 16 | Wisconsin | 5,795,483 | 869 | 15% |
| 17 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 435 | 15% |
| 18 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 1,650 | 14% |
| 19 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 917 | 14% |
| 20 | Arkansas | 3,004,279 | 432 | 14% |
Most common cities for business coordinators
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jackson | 2 | 6% | $47,413 |
| 2 | Culver City | 2 | 5% | $65,236 |
| 3 | Delano | 1 | 2% | $67,785 |
| 4 | Lubbock | 2 | 1% | $45,855 |
| 5 | Newark | 2 | 1% | $59,184 |
| 6 | Bloomington | 1 | 1% | $44,354 |
| 7 | Burbank | 1 | 1% | $65,362 |
| 8 | Fort Myers | 1 | 1% | $56,590 |
| 9 | Los Angeles | 3 | 0% | $65,265 |
| 10 | El Paso | 2 | 0% | $46,887 |
| 11 | Phoenix | 2 | 0% | $49,959 |
| 12 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $55,123 |
| 13 | Chandler | 1 | 0% | $49,855 |
| 14 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $47,102 |
| 15 | Colorado Springs | 1 | 0% | $43,152 |
| 16 | Denver | 1 | 0% | $42,782 |
| 17 | Irving | 1 | 0% | $45,252 |
Business Coordinator job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of business coordinator experts
Penn State University - Harrisburg
University of Nevada, Reno
University of Central Arkansas
Alverno College
Connecticut College
University of Connecticut
Heidelberg University
Kansas State University
University of Indianapolis
Westminster College
The Ohio State University
Mount Mercy University
Austin Community College
Wichita State University
Marshall University
Drexel University
Northern Michigan University
California Lutheran University
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Lubbock Christian University
Faiza Abbas
Lecturer of ManagementPenn State University - Harrisburg
School of Business Administration
What soft skills should all Business Coordinators possess?
Faiza Abbas: In recent years employers have placed a high value on soft skills. Soft skills, also called human skills or behavioral skills, take years to master. The technical know-how of a job can take an employee only so far. To become a star employee, you need skills that might be hard to measure but critical for success. Some of the important in-demand soft skills are:
-Critical thinking
-Collaboration
-Communication
-Perseverance
-Adaptability
-Emotional Intelligence
According to LinkedIn's 2019 Global Talent Trends report, 89 percent of recruiters say when a hire doesn't work out, it usually comes down to a lack of soft skills. An engineer might have the best solution for her client, but if she misses deadlines or doesn't take action on time, upset clientele might cost her the job. The beauty of soft skills is that they're highly transferable. Creativity, responsibility, and communication skills can be applied to any job.
A recent Yale University study found that people with emotionally intelligent supervisors-those who are self-aware and empathetic-were happier, more creative, and more innovative. On the flip side, 70 percent of the employees whose managers were identified as having little emotional intelligence said their main feelings toward work were negative.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Business Coordinators?
Faiza Abbas: Business Management or Business Administration degree and some experience
-Know the business and its products and services. As a business associate, you need to be an expert in your company's offerings to sell them to prospective clients. Work with your organization to expand your knowledge, skills, and abilities, so you can provide answers to your clients.
-Computer skills and Microsoft Office
-Analytical skills like Data Mining and Data Presentation, Diagnostics, Creativity
-Presentation skills like Graphic Design and Data Visualization
-Marketing skills
-Certifications relevant to your field
-Fluency in digital communications
-Critical thinking skills
What skills stand out on Business Coordinator resumes?
Faiza Abbas: Business associates are usually members of a team that works together to acquire and retain clients. They are the face of a business and its first connection with people; therefore, much emphasis is placed on hiring the right person. Although the job description of a business associate will vary from one company to another, there are certain skills preferred by all recruiters. A Business Management degree might be the prerequisite, but some skills will make your resume stand out. These include good communication skills to connect effectively with clients, teamwork, a positive outlook, problem-solving capabilities, use of appropriate social media, conflict management, and emotional intelligence.
What skills will help Business Coordinators earn the most?
Faiza Abbas: In the current coronavirus scenario or post-Covid time, there are some skills that organizations are willing to pay for; many organizations have a pay-for-knowledge compensation system that bases salaries and wages on the repertoire of skills that an employee possesses and not on job classifications. Having these skills will enable you to earn more than others at the same job level.
-An understanding of how organizations operate
-Strong communication skills (oral and written)
-Analytical and critical thinking
-Problem solving
-Decision making
-Logical thinking
-Presentation and report writing skills
Jim McClenahan
Director of Career and Corporate OutreachUniversity of Nevada, Reno
College of Business
What soft skills should all Business Coordinators possess?
Jim McClenahan: As I said, soft skills are desired more than ever. Angela Duckworth describes Grit as "Perseverance, effort, and skill." We can teach the skill; the other two have to come with the new hire. Empathy is important as someone grows in their career-you can't be an effective leader and not have empathy in your skillset.
Anthony McMullen
Associate Professor of Business Law and Director of Forensics, vUniversity of Central Arkansas
Accounting Department
What skills stand out on Business Coordinator resumes?
Anthony McMullen: This will depend on the specific field. Business is an incredibly broad area. Anyone with a business type of degree will at least obtain basic knowledge in accounting, economics, finance, management, and marketing. These skills should be highlighted. But when thinking about a resume, workers should think about (and participate in) experiences that allow them to use these skills. And once they have these experiences, they should be able to articulate how they used these skills on a resume. Don't just say, "I did ______." Say, "I used _________ in order to accomplish __________."
Stephani Richards-Wilson Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Business and Management, MBA Faculty Director, Associate - School Sisters of St. FrancisAlverno College
Business and Management Department
What skills will help Business Coordinators earn the most?
Stephani Richards-Wilson Ph.D.: My experience has been that it depends on the position, organization, and industry, among other variables. Digital and information literacy are key to researching, analyzing, and evaluating credible information, in this case, skills that are in demand and could lead to well-paying jobs. I would emphasize, however, that there are intrinsic benefits that sometimes eclipse salary as the primary consideration. It depends on the individual and how they want to improve their quality of life, earn incentives, or be compensated. For many, contributing to an organization that promotes humane and positive interactions, allows for flexible work arrangements, and aligns with one's personal values is paramount. I encourage business specialists to stay vigilant and knowledgeable about developing industry or marketplace trends. Embrace continuous learning, upskilling, and workplace training to remain relevant in the post-pandemic world.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Coordinator job market given the pandemic?
Julia Kushigian Ph.D.: The exciting trends for students graduating in Hispanic Studies and for those already in the job market are the potential benefits of a remote learning anticipated years ago through pedagogical tools designed by those in language, literature and culture. The interactive formulas, ability to engage participants and broaden the definition of language learning to include cultural studies of a variety of professional fields were already in the works and Covid was the impetus to move even faster. We know from a variety of studies, including a major report by the American Council of Teachers of Foreign Languages, for example, that 9 out of 10 U.S. employers rely on employees with language skills other than English. Spanish being in high demand is the most sought after language. Of course, beyond the more obvious benefits of being bilingual ("Why Bilinguals are Smarter" NYT 2012) are the less obvious of being adept at solving certain mental problems, thriving in ambiguity, flexibility with unknowns and the potential to stave off dementia later in life.
How have salaries changed over time for Business Coordinators?
Julia Kushigian Ph.D.: As demand has increased, salaries have risen tremendously to try and keep pace. In fields like education, business, health care, government, social services, service related employment, law, etc., salaries have improved year over year to stay competitive.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Business Coordinators?
Julia Kushigian Ph.D.: A 4-year degree with a major in Hispanic Studies, a certificate from an International Studies Center (at Connecticut College the Center for International Studies in the Liberal Arts with an ACTFL ranking of Advanced, a local or global internship in the foreign language and/or foreign culture, nationally recognized ACTFL cerntification, translation licensing.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Business Coordinators?
Roger Travis: The BA in a humanities field continues to mark a candidate who know how to think and how to write. A BA in classics will continue to distinguish a candidate as having particularly strong skills in critical thinking.
What will help Business Coordinators increase their earning potential?
Roger Travis: Those choosing a teaching career should consider seeking certification through a concurrent enrollment program that can get them a Masters in Education soon after graduation with the BA.
Paige Atterholt
Adjunct ProfessorHeidelberg University
What's a good job out of college for Business Coordinators?
Paige Atterholt: A good job out of college is a job that you feel passionate about because I believe your happiness comes first. Being in the world of education, a good job in my eyes is a job that you enjoy going to every day, want to make an impact, and enjoy the time you have with your students.
What will help Business Coordinators increase their earning potential?
Paige Atterholt: There are many ways a teacher can increase their earning potential. This can be done through continuing education, maybe looking at a Masters or more to move up on the pay scale. Teachers can advise student council, tutoring, or even look at coaching to earn more money. There's vast opportunities in the world of education! Schools always need teachers who are well-rounded.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Business Coordinators?
Paige Atterholt: I think now, being in year 2 of the pandemic, I think if anything there will be more jobs for graduates. Just looking through the jobs online, there are many opportunities for graduates to get a job. I think the older community retired when things got bad, which opened the door for the younger generation.
Richard Doll
Associate ProfessorKansas State University
Department of Educational Leadership
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Coordinator job market given the pandemic?
Richard Doll: The stress from the pandemic has caused many veteran school leaders to retire. So, there will be lots of movement this year as principal/assistant superintendents move into the superintendency and teachers move into principalships.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Coordinator job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Larry Belcher: The biggest post-pandemic trend we see involves the re-definition of a workspace. Many firms went to remote work via video conferencing and other technology and decided that they really did not need expensive office space, particularly in large cities and so they have employees working fully or partially remote on a permanent basis. In addition, for "at work" office space many firms have moved away from "offices" or even cubbies to common "plug-in" stations where workers find a spot and have access to power and internet so they can work. Add in conference/meeting space and you can still have face to face meetings if necessary but a much smaller, less expensive office footprint. It remains to be seen how this will work out long-term in terms of worker productivity. There is a lot of anecdotal evidence of "Zoom fatigue" and a desire for more human interaction among some workers so this is a trend worth watching. Another trend has been the speed of change. COVID showed us in many ways that our environments can be altered substantially almost overnight. Supply chain management is a great example. From a worker perspective, not being intimidated by this type of possibility will be a key going forward.
What's a day at work look like for a Business Coordinator?
Michael Mamo Ph.D.: The pandemic has brought about fundamental changes at the workplace, including remote work and the rising importance of technological proficiency. These in turn demand flexibility and much of the workplace will demand more versatility and flexibility.
What will help Business Coordinators increase their earning potential?
Michael Mamo Ph.D.: Not sure how this relates to the previous themes but I do not believe the quest to increase one's earning potential is a noble goal. As humans we value (or should value) the benefits of enlightenment that come from education and life-long learning. Of course, enlightenment could translate to monetary gains. Enlightenment also comes with a greater sense of fulfilment in life and provides the person with traits of empathy, integrity, and other virtues such as justice and perseverance. Beyond improving ones earningn potential, education is a life-affirming process and that is what I would advise people in my field to aspire for.
What soft skills should all Business Coordinators possess?
Adam Cahill: Soft skills are often what can set a graduate apart in the hiring and promotion process. They are often items that are difficult to teach and many find it challenging to coach employees on development and growth in these skills; which is quite the contrast to the counterpart technical skills. Because of this, we like to refer to these skills as "power skills" and there are far too many to name them all.
Some of the more tangible power skills we like to see our graduates express competency in before they leave the university are oral and written communication mastery, self-reflection and growth in response to their experiences lived, adaptability and agility, listening to understand and not to respond, and finally, global and intercultural fluency.
These skills and the countless more, are all ones that can be developed and cultivated through practice, awareness, and life experiences. We highly encourage employers to build these skill's development into their operations and company culture as they are not items that should stop being taught once students leave education institutions, but ones that should be continually honed throughout their entire lives.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Coordinator job market given the pandemic?
Joe Sheller: Pandemic is too new for me to gauge--it's been going on for a year but we have a small graduating class each year. I was worried about last year's class, but they seem to have found placements.
I sort of expect a kind of delayed impact. Lots of my journalism graduates go into marketing, PR, corporate writing or web writing--they are not strictly "service" jobs that were worst hit by pandemic, but do depend on companies that provide those services (not much work in restaurant marketing when all the restaurants are closed, for example). A chunk of the small pool of graduates I had were actually hired by the university where I teach because we had "churn" in our marketing-communication office, both a change of leadership and existing employees moving on off campus for other places--which is not an indication of a weak job market.
Remote job interviews via video conferencing are way more common.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Business Coordinators?
Stuart Greenfield Ph.D.: According to the National Student Clearinghouse estimates for Fall 2018-Fall 2020, Nscresearchcenter, enrollment inf post-secondary institutions declined by 703.9K. Of this decline, 621.4K (88.3%) were attributed to Public 2-year institutions.
What soft skills should all Business Coordinators possess?
Stuart Greenfield Ph.D.: Given the changing demographics that the country has experienced, the entire education continuum must change. According to the Brookings Institution, Brookings, the non-Hispanic White population in the under 18 cohort since 2000 has declined.
As you'll note from the occupations that are projected to increase the greatest, most require face-to-face contact, so that soft-skills will be necessary. I would also expect that critical thinking skills will be needed as more responsibility will be required of front-line workers.
Sonja Armbruster
Health Sciences EducatorWichita State University
Department of Public Health Sciences
What's a day at work look like for a Business Coordinator?
Sonja Armbruster: The pandemic has re-defined what it even means to have a "day at work". I'm writing this response from my home office. Work in public health jobs can involve so many kinds of roles and responsibilities. The only thing I can guarantee is that the successful person seeking a career in public will be constantly curious and constantly learning. There are many public health jobs that are clearly defined with a set of protocols and software and office time that is scripted. Many more public health jobs require learning something new about community members, community partners, the system (including the department/organization one works for), the latest science and political realities that enable and constrain public health work. A day at work will involve continuously learning and seeking to understand new connections.
What technical skills for a Business Coordinator stand out to employers?
Sonja Armbruster: The technology of this moment may change in the next moment. The capacity to quickly learn new systems and processes is a critical skill. In large-part, this requires a willingness to say yes, and perhaps a willingness to make mistakes and try again. Successful new-graduates are coachable. None of us is as smart as all of us. New grads need to seek coaching and feedback from others. Older co-workers may have wisdom to share, or they may be missing a perspective or skill needed - and either way, new grads can learn so much by watching and paying attention. One of the most valuable skills one can hone is the approach to the work. New responsibilities are an opportunity to grow in the job, not a burden. While you likely won't see this on a normal "technical skills" list, stand-out employees have a healthy willingness to "go-figure-it-out" and then consult with one's supervisor or team rather than waiting to be told what to do or having a narrowly defined "job-jar". GFIO.
Dr. E.Del Chrol
Chair of Humanities, Professor of ClassicsMarshall University
Humanities Department
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Business Coordinators?
Dr. E.Del Chrol: I have three big fears about potential impacts of the pandemic on grads, and one hopeful one. I'm a believer in the old saying that goes the true judge of one's character is what one does when nobody is watching. Since students aren't under the same scrutiny as they would in a class of students, I am worried about the reward system some may have developed. So, first, if a student cheated on exams because they took it by themselves, not only does that undermine their education but may encourage cheating to get ahead. Second, it's easy to lose focus in a Zoom or Teams meeting or class. I myself more often than I should check my phone when I should be listening to some administrator or other delivering projections. Attention and focus is a skill, and when there's no obvious penalty to checking Insta during a proof, the ability to do deep and rewarding work with true focus is further diminished. Third, I'm concerned that the pandemic is reinforcing the digital divide. A student who has to share a space or a computer or bandwidth is going to have a harder time performing as well as someone who doesn't. The one thing I hope will come out of this is more people able to do their work in a space and a time of their choosing, and that folks won't be compelled to go sit under fluorescent lights in a cubicle 5 days a week. Learning to work creatively and independently is a skill and one that is sometimes ground out of our students by 19th century work-spaces. Fingers crossed we can develop flexibility thanks to the necessity.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Business Coordinators?
Dr. E.Del Chrol: The courses that are most useful for employers are those that encourage writing, especially when it requires the student to conceive of and execute a large, complex project. If your major has a capstone project or Senior thesis option (and not just examination), take it. Secondarily, upper division courses that draw connections between the classical world and today are vital, especially with professors who aren't stupid. It's easy to say "Today is just like the fall of Rome!", you hear that all the time. But which fall of Rome? The one that created the long-enduring empire in 27 BCE? Or the final death in the West in 476CE (which doesn't include the Eastern empire in Constantinople)? Being able to recognize patterns as well as specificity of a historical moment is of vital importance to navigating our fraught times. That level of cultural awareness is infinitely adaptable to work that one does at a job, even a complex one. Finally, courses that tackle rhetoric are key, since, as Aristotle says, politics is the queen of disciplines. Everything is politics, and being able to navigate that is key.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Business Coordinators?
Susan Epstein: Clearly the pandemic has had both an emotional and financial impact on recent graduates, as it has had on everyone, really. For some college students, the financial implications mean postponing completion of their degree. For those who are completing their degree this year, the job market will be tight. There are many unemployed professionals with far more experience than a recent grad. It is a time of extreme uncertainty.
But I don’t think the picture is all bleak. I think current students and graduates will be some of the most flexible and technically savvy candidates out there. They have proven their ability to pivot. They have had to change their style of learning, practically overnight. They have had to perfect their communication with classmates, teachers, and potential employers over Zoom, as opposed to having the benefit of face to face interaction – and they have done a great job! I think the perspective of these graduates will be quite different than those who graduated even 5 years ago. They have experienced first-hand how to adapt to the unexpected. They left campus in March, 2020 and likely have not been back.
This year’s graduates are to be admired for their ability to stay focused amid such chaos. They have endured disruption and loss, yet are still working hard in school and in their communities, and as such are setting a wonderful example for the rest of us. As future leaders, I think this experience will influence their empathy, their relationships, and their willingness to think critically and consider alternate perspectives. And if that is the case, the future looks very bright.
What's a good job out of college for Business Coordinators?
Susan Epstein: The best job for a recent graduate is one for which her or she is passionate and prepared. The pandemic has not changed that. Taking a job that does not meet those criteria, regardless of what is going on in the world, will not be satisfying for the long term. In addition, working for an organization whose culture aligns with your own personal values is extremely important. Your first professional position sets the tone for the rest of your career. You want to ensure that there are challenging responsibilities and room for advancement. You should also take advantage of the networking opportunities within any organization you join. Feeling good about what you are doing and who you are doing it with affects not only your performance, but also the relationships you have with those around you. This is important as you pave the way for a career, as the reputation you create now will influence the way others respond to you going forward.
What technical skills for a Business Coordinator stand out to employers?
Susan Epstein: Technology-based skills such as software proficiency and data analysis are important in today's business environment, but obviously this will vary by industry and even job specifications. On the other hand, soft skills transcend job and industry. Strong interpersonal skills (including listening, often a weakness in our communication skill set), critical thinking, and time management make strong leaders and equally strong followers.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Business Coordinators?
Dr. Jim Marquardson: In the short term, the job market may be tough. Companies may be unsure about their financial situations and therefore hesitant to hire right away. But I am already seeing a lot of companies start to post more job openings. All businesses know that they need better cybersecurity solutions, and they need good people to implement those solutions, so those projects cannot be delayed until we're completely past the pandemic. Criminal activity is not slowing down just because of COVID-19. Job seekers may have to be flexible in where they move, whether they are willing to work remotely, or what kind of company they want to work for starting out in their careers. But the great thing about cybersecurity is that a degree, some certifications, and a few years of work experience make you extremely marketable. Long-term career prospects are excellent.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Business Coordinators?
George Owens: It is my belief that the future will belong in large part to those who can match their interests and career goals to the types of roles the market is looking for. Whether you are interested in a career in marketing, sales, finance, etc. Those men and women who can demonstrate an ability to leverage their education and interests will be sought-after. The ability to write and express one's self effectively will continue to be critical.
General business knowledge (like that found in an MBA program) may continue to have a profound effect on the opportunities one is viewed as qualified for. However, these basic skills will be seen as "table stakes" the foundational element of success. The real key will the ability to build meaningful relationships, demonstrate a willingness and desire to promote an open, diverse organization and the drive to be successful while recognizing the importance of corporate responsibility. Graduate study may be a foundation, but a desire and drive to maintain one's skills in communications, interpersonal relationships, technology, diversity and corporate ethics will be critical.
Michelle Ruiz Ph.D.
Assistant professor, Healthcare administration Program DirectorSaint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Master of Healthcare Administration, Business and Leadership Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Coordinator job market given the pandemic?
Michelle Ruiz Ph.D.: When looking at specific fields, like healthcare, there are unusually high stressors right now that are bringing about higher than average turnover. This changes the job market for qualified candidates who are looking for work, making it easier for applicants to find a position than during previous economic downturns. Other industries will see a more permanent shift in their hiring, people who were employed in entertainment, travel, and dining for example are seeing a shrinking job market. Employees from those areas are pivoting to more stable industries to find work again, through entry level positions or going back to school for a new bachelors or master's degree.
Brian Starr Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of EconomicsLubbock Christian University
School of Business
What technical skills for a Business Coordinator stand out to employers?
Brian Starr Ph.D.: Employers will continue to seek out sharp, hard-working employees who possess strong skills well-suited for the job at hand. A good mind and a good work ethic never go out of style. But as work shifts away from an office-centric base, employers will benefit greatly from those employees who embrace connecting technologies and have the focused discipline to get jobs done without being micromanaged. The former trait can be a competitive advantage for our emerging graduates. They are digital natives and many of them connect through technological platforms as naturally as they breathe. The challenge for them will not generally be the use of technology. They challenge will be developing the emotional intelligence to know which modality to use in each circumstance. A text, an e-mail, a phone call, a virtual meeting with the webcam off, a virtual meeting with the webcam on, and a trip across town to meet for lunch each have their place, and it takes wisdom to know which is best in each instant case. This will take some time and experience to master, but I suspect the emerging generation of graduates will soon discover fruitful paths. And those who mature quickly into the kinds of workers who can be trusted to get a job done timely and properly will find themselves advancing quickly through the ranks.