Name, Frame, Extend: Questions Answered.

Get to know the fast, simple framework for building career resilience in 10 minutes per week.

What is the Name, Frame, Extend (NFE) framework?

The Name, Frame, Extend (NFE) framework is a simple process that helps you see, describe, and share your skills in a clearer way. Many of us either downplay what we can do or explain it in ways that don’t really capture its value—and that can hold us back from new opportunities. NFE gives you a step-by-step way to make your skills more visible, more compelling, and easier to carry into new situations.

What are the three primary steps of the NFE framework?

The NFE framework has three main steps:

• Name: Start by just putting words to what you do. Describe your skills as plainly as if you were telling a friend. The goal is simply to notice and name them without overthinking.

• Frame: Once you’ve named a skill, look at it in a new light. How can you describe it so that its importance and impact are clear to others? This is where you reframe it in stronger, more powerful language.

• Extend: Finally, ask yourself where else this skill could take you. Imagine new projects, roles, or situations where it might fit. This helps you see the transferability of your skills.

  
  

Is there an optional fourth step in the NFE process?

Yes! The optional fourth step is Document. Here, you gather evidence that backs up your skills—things like presentations you’ve given, stats that show your impact, or samples of your work. Having these artifacts on hand makes it easier to prove what you can do.

How does NFE help individuals build career resilience?

NFE builds career resilience by making your skills more visible, valuable, and flexible for whatever comes next. Work is always changing—industries shift, roles evolve, life throws curveballs. By naming, framing, and extending your skills, you get a clearer picture of your strengths, learn to talk about them with confidence, and start to imagine where else they might apply. That way, when career “plot twists” happen, you’re ready.

If you're already working with a career coach or consultant - great - NFE doesn't replace that. See how NFE complements other career development tools.

What is the "Put Your Data to Work" section, and how is it useful?

“Put Your Data to Work” (PYDTW) is where all your NFE work turns into real tools. Think of it like a remix station for your skills—you can take one NFE entry and spin it into different formats. A framed skill can become a sharp résumé bullet, a fuller LinkedIn blurb, a service description, a future-facing idea, or even a portfolio case study (Challenge, Action, Impact). This section saves time and helps you quickly create content for job applications, networking, and career planning.

How often should one use the NFE framework?

You’ll get the most out of NFE if you use it regularly. The workbook suggests aiming for four reflections each month. Keeping a steady practice means your skills inventory stays fresh, and you won’t be scrambling to update it when opportunities pop up. It also helps you spot hidden strengths and polish how you tell your professional story.

What tools are available for NFE?

• NFE: Core Notion Template: A ready-to-use digital workspace that guides you through the Name, Frame, Extend process and keeps your skill reflections organized.

• NFE: Core Workbook: A guided PDF workbook with prompts, practice exercises, and space to map out your skills on paper or screen.

• NFE: Core Bundle: The complete toolkit: digital structure in Notion plus hands-on reflection in the workbook, so you can use both together.

• NFE: The Free Worksheet: A simple, one-page starter sheet that walks you through the essentials of Name, Frame, Extend.

  
  

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