The following principles guide the initiative, and companies recognize:

• Skills are as important as degrees or similar previously fixed requirements in hiring and promotion decisions.
• Hiring practices should create opportunities for individuals from a wide array of backgrounds.
• Employers should send clear demand signals regarding the skills needed in their workforce.
• Upskilling and continuous learning are vital to helping employees obtain the experiences, skills or certifications needed for professional growth.
• Partnerships with relevant stakeholders are critical to building a skills-first approach that works for all.