Want a Better Job? Know Your “Transferable” Skills

Transferable skills are those skills that you own and can transfer from one job to the next. They may come from years of work experience or life experience. Transferable skills can come from courses or training programs, on-the-job work, and home and social experiences. Regardless of how you came by them, these are your skills and abilities and employers want them.

Employers consider transferable skills as important as technical and job-related skills. Employers look for skills and abilities that they recognize as competencies they have found in their most effective employees. Soft skills such as communicating effectively—both in writing and speaking—as well as problem solving, showing initiative, and demonstrating creativity and integrity, are valuable across all industries.

Knowing your transferable skills can be helpful in a number of ways. Recognizing your skills can help you be a more effective team player, help you align your skills with your job description and your annual goals (think performance review time), and help you develop a targeted résumé and cover letter when the next job search or job opportunity arises.

Google “top transferable skills” and you will find a good selection of skills employers seek. A list of the top 10 transferable skills employers need includes:

1. Communication Skills

2. Teamwork Skills

3. Leadership Skills

4. Time Management Skills

5. Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills

6. Organization Skills

7. Learning Skills

8. Technology Skills

9. Listening Skills

10. Creativity Skills

Do you recognize your top skills in this list? If so, you are in demand! If you are missing some of these areas, what can you do to help yourself gain ground in these skills area? You and your career are worth it. Consider making an investment in yourself today and spend some time working on your transferable skill set.