Because Skill Badges are digital representations of your skill claims backed by evidence you provide, you should claim a Skill Badge when you truly believe you possess the skill it represents. You should be confident you can justify your skill claim by providing quality answers to the interview questions necessary to claim a Skill Badge, can cite specific examples that demonstrate it, and can provide evidence of your claims. If your school or employer uses CareerPrepped, follow any instructions you may have been given on when to claim a Skill Badge. However, in general, you should claim a Skill Badge after considering whether you’ve met the following guidelines:

1. I’ve reflected and feel confident I have all the abilities that define the skill.

2. I’m confident I can justify my skill claim with at least two examples that demonstrate it.

3. I know my written justification will be publicly visible and I’m confident about having it viewed by the public.

4. I have at least one portfolio file to substantiate my skill claim that I can attach to my Skill Badge.

5. I have people who’ve observed me use the skill and am confident they’ll be happy to endorse me.