This study highlights the importance of clear communication in fostering career readiness. Students exhibit higher motivation on achievement tests when they understand the value of an assessment and are able to familiarize themselves with the exam prior to testing. Increased communication regarding the work requirements of local employers can further contribute to career readiness. A short survey was sent to Alabama high schools with greater-than-expected ACT® WorkKeys® performance with the goal of identifying effective practices for promoting career readiness. Six of the 10 schools contacted responded to the survey. All respondents integrate career readiness into their regular curricula, whether through co-op programs, dual-credit initiatives, or certification programs. All responding schools use WorkKeys-specific test preparation materials and set aside class time for students to engage with those materials. Many of the responding schools have relationships with businesses in their communities and communicate hiring requirements from these businesses to their students. These relationships are additionally fostered through career fairs. The hope is that these schools can provide insights to other high schools in Alabama on increasing their WorkKeys scores.