Looking for a career change in the new year? Focus on transferable job skills
Career Paths, Careers advice

Looking for a career change in the new year? Focus on transferable job skills

According to a research, academic qualifications are decidedly less important than transferable skills and experience.

Maybe you’re interested in changing industries or want to try something completely different than anything on your resume. It can be intimidating to make the leap, and many don’t know where to start. But starting is easier than you think. First, identify your transferable job skills.

What are transferable job skills?

In job searching, you’ve surely noticed key words in almost every job description. These are core skills and abilities that can be applied to a wide range of jobs and sectors. “Good communication skills” is a classic example. Good communication skills are equally important for an IT manager and a nurse and so-on. In his book Knock ’em Dead: The Ultimate Job Search Guide, best-selling author Martin John Yate says that transferable job skills make the difference between success and failure in any role. “They are the foundation of all the professional success you will experience in this and other careers you may pursue over the years.”

The Global Employability University Ranking, determined by a survey conducted on 100 companies in 20 countries, revealed which aspects are most sought after by organizations in recruiting. The result? Academic qualifications are decidedly less important than transferable skills and experience.

Here are some of the most sought-after transferable skills to highlight: 

Teamwork:

Knowing how to build relationships within the organization and manage different personalities to reach goals.

In an interview, share examples of when you have worked well with others in formal or informal groups and how much your presence has influenced the success of the project. Or, if you have experience in teams from volunteering or sports, tell how these experiences have helped to strengthen this skill.

Leadership:

Motivating others, taking responsibility, leading others effectively to execute tasks and reach goals.

There are many skills needed to be an effective leader, so think of examples where your guidance has been helpful and decisive.

Listening skills:

A subset of communication skills, this means listening to understand and comprehend.

Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group, famously considers listening one of the most important skills to develop. Most job roles require understanding and processing important or complex information. Effective listening reduces the chances of misunderstandings and mistakes.

Time-management:

The ability to prioritize and complete tasks in an efficient way.

It is important to demonstrate to potential employers that you have effective time management and good organizational skills. During an interview, give concrete examples that show how you structured and organized times and resources, respecting deadlines.