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This guide explores the concept and importance of transferable skills, how to identify and develop yours, and the best ways to demonstrate them when looking for a job or career change.
What are transferable skills?
Transferable skills are the abilities, knowledge and natural aptitudes that people may transfer from one role or context to another. They’re soft skills that make our work human. Employees might transfer their excellent interpersonal skills, including active listening or emotional intelligence and use them across multiple roles, regardless of the role or organisation they’re working in. In contrast, hard technical skills are often linked to a specific profession or job. Speaking on the FI podcast, Director Ben Bullman describes transferable skills as:
"...human skills that you can demonstrate in your job. Skills that you've maybe learned or experienced, that are transferable by definition. You can transfer them into other industries, other roles; you can use them in society in your personal life, and they're the sorts of human skills that will not be replaced by AI technology and robots."
Why transferable skills are important
Here are five reasons to focus on transferable skills:
1. Adaptability
Transferable skills give employees and job seekers an edge in a crowded marketplace, while they’re also important for companies that want to achieve business success in a changing landscape. For example, a company expanding into a new business area may require employees with existing skills they can repurpose. Speaking on the Squiggly Careers podcast, Helen Tupper says,
"Your transferable skills give you consistency and control in an uncertain and complex world of work. No matter what job you do, and what company you go and do it in, you know that you're going to bring those skills. You can keep investing in them, and improving them, but you don't need to radically change them. Whereas there might be some other skills that you do need to radically change, because the technology's different or it's a completely new product you're working with; there will be some things that are brand new. But these transferable skills are things that you continually build on, you continually get better at them and they're a confident baseline you can take with you."
2. Talent pool expansion
By recognising and valuing transferable skills, hiring managers and HR professionals can cast a wider net when seeking candidates. This can lead to a more diverse and inclusive workforce, bringing in individuals from various backgrounds and industries who can bring fresh perspectives and problem-solving abilities to the company.
Example: Instead of hiring people with qualifications in Python, they may be willing to accept candidates with experience in other coding languages, who also demonstrate excellent communication skills. As any computer programmer will likely work in a team environment, this could be a win for the hiring organisation.
3. Future-proofing the organisation
As technology continues to advance, certain job roles may become obsolete while others emerge. LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report 2023 highlights that skill sets have already changed by 25% since 2015, and we can expect this number to double by 2027. Almost 9 in 10 L&D pros believe that equipping employees with skills will help us all navigate the future of work. Transferable skills ensure that employees remain valuable assets to the organisation, as they pivot and learn skills relevant in the evolving job market.
4. Leadership potential
Many transferrable skills, such as communication, leadership, and teamwork, are essential for leadership positions. Recognising these key skills in candidates allows us to pinpoint future leaders within the organisation, reducing the need for external hires required for leadership roles.
5. Employee satisfaction
Employees who are encouraged to develop their transferable skills often feel more engaged and satisfied in their roles. Leaders can promote a culture of continuous learning and skill development in their company cultures, leading to higher retention rates and better morale.
Work Institute’s Retention Report reveals that there were over 50 million voluntary job departures in 2022. Why? “Employees expect to be developed. They want to learn and grow in their job.” And in many cases, this depends on growing their existing transferable skills, or acquiring new ones.
7 examples of transferable skills
Here are seven common transferable skills examples, including how you might see them applied in real-world scenarios.
Communication skills
Communication skills are essential for any employee or candidate and refer to the way an individual interacts with teammates, leaders, and customers. This skill includes:
- Verbal communication: The ability to express ideas clearly and effectively through spoken words.
- Written communication: Proficiency in writing reports, emails, and other documents.
- Active listening: Paying close attention to others when they speak and providing thoughtful responses.
- Presentation skills: Delivering information or ideas in a compelling and organised manner.
Example: Sarah, with her well-developed communication skills, successfully transitions from a marketing role in technology to corporate communications in healthcare. Her proficiency in conveying ideas clearly, crafting compelling content, and engaging diverse stakeholders makes her a valuable asset in her new role, facilitating effective communication and contributing to the healthcare organisation's success.
Problem-solving
Problem-solving skills enable individuals to think logically and come up with solutions for complex problems. This is essential as businesses are increasingly looking for candidates who can independently solve challenges or identify innovative approaches to existing issues they might encounter.
- Critical thinking: Analysing information to make reasoned decisions.
- Decision-making: Weighing options and making choices based on available data.
- Creative thinking: Generating innovative solutions to challenges.
- Analytical skills: Evaluating and interpreting data to solve complex problems.
Example: John’s experience in software engineering has prepared him well for a role in customer success management. His problem-solving skills help him navigate customer needs and come up with creative solutions for their challenges. He can quickly assess an issue, develop a plan of action, and follow through on it efficiently, becoming an invaluable asset to the company.
Teamwork
Teamwork is exactly what it says on the tin: the ability to work effectively and cooperate with others to achieve a common goal. Being a team player includes:
- Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve shared company goals.
- Leadership: Guiding and motivating team members to accomplish tasks.
- Adaptability: Being open to change and adjusting to new team dynamics or environments.
Example: Peter has honed his teamwork skills throughout his career in the financial sector. He excels at collaboration, conflict resolution, and adaptability, allowing him to work well with team members from all areas of the business. His ability to collaborate effectively in a diverse environment makes him an ideal candidate for leading a project team.
Organisational skills
You can be the most knowledgeable expert in your field, but without organisational skills, your ability to make the most of that knowledge is limited. This includes:
- Time management: Prioritising tasks, setting goals, and meeting deadlines.
- Planning: Arranging resources and tasks efficiently.
- Attention to detail: Ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in work.
- Project management: Overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of projects.
Example: Ismail’s organisational skills have enabled him to move from a bookkeeper role to a senior financial analyst. He has mastered the art of time management and project management, allowing him to develop detailed plans for projects and effectively manage resources to meet deadlines. His attention to detail helps him find errors and discrepancies that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Customer service
Keeping customers happy is an art that's essential for business success. People adept at interacting with the general public include those with:
- Interpersonal skills: Building rapport and relationships with customers.
- Empathy: Understanding and addressing customers' needs and concerns.
- Patience: Remaining calm and courteous when dealing with challenging situations.
Example: Susana’s customer service skills have enabled her to excel in her role as a customer service representative. Her interpersonal skills help her build rapport and relationships with customers, while her empathy allows her to anticipate and address their needs. She is an excellent listener and has the patience and conflict resolution skills necessary to effectively resolve any issues that arise with customers. These skills make her well-suited for a people ops role, where she can apply the same skills to supporting employees instead of customers.
Leadership skills
Effective leaders are those that empower employees to perform as individuals, for the collective good of the team. Not everyone is cut out to be a leader; those who are will exhibit the following skills:
- Delegation: Assigning tasks and responsibilities to team members.
- Decision-making: Making informed choices that benefit the team or organisation.
- Motivation: Inspiring and guiding others to achieve their best performance.
- Conflict resolution: Mediating disputes and maintaining a positive team environment.
Example: Amir's leadership skills ensure he excels in his role as a project manager. His ability to effectively delegate tasks allows him to take on larger projects without overwhelming team members, while his decision-making ensures that the team efficiently works towards its objectives. These leadership qualities will stay with him throughout his career.
Adaptability
In changing times, the ability to adapt quickly and effectively is essential for survival. People with this skill set generally have:
- Flexibility: Adapting to changes in work processes, technologies, or roles.
- Resilience: Bouncing back from setbacks and staying productive under pressure.
- Open-mindedness: Willingness to consider new ideas and approaches.
- Learning agility: Quickly acquiring new skills and knowledge.
Example: Jasper exhibits tremendous creative skills in his job as a product designer. His ability to interpret customer needs and create innovative solutions for those needs has been a great asset to his team. When the company pivots into a new business area, Jasper can quickly adapt and develop new approaches to work.
Identifying your transferable skills
Identifying your transferable skills is a valuable exercise, whether you're looking to change careers, impress a prospective employer, or simply enhance your self-awareness. Here's a step-by-step guide on how people can identify their transferable skills:
1. Self-reflection
Start by taking some time for self-reflection. Think about your past experiences, both in your professional and personal life. Consider specific instances where you excelled, overcame challenges, or contributed to a team. Ask yourself questions like:
- What tasks or activities do I enjoy doing?
- When have I been recognised for my abilities or accomplishments?
- What strengths or qualities do others often mention about me?
2. Review your work history
Examine your work history, including past jobs, internships, volunteer work, and even hobbies. Create a list of the tasks and responsibilities you've had in each role. Pay attention to common themes and skills that recur throughout your career.
3. Seek feedback
Ask colleagues, supervisors, mentors, or friends for their input. They may have valuable insights into your strengths and areas where you excel, for example, interpersonal skills, work ethic, and problem-solving abilities.
Alternatively, consider consulting with a career counsellor or coach. They can provide tailored advice and assessments to help you identify and leverage your transferable skills effectively.
4. Use self-assessment tools
There are numerous self-assessment tools and career quizzes available online that can help you identify your strengths and preferences. These tools provide insights into your personality type, work style, and potential career matches. From here, you can put your skills to the test in real-world situations. Volunteer for projects at work, take on leadership roles in organisations or seek out opportunities to apply your transferable skills outside of your job.
How to develop and enhance transferable skills
It undoubtedly makes sense to work on improving transferable skills, for their own career progression, as well as the benefits they can offer companies. But what should individuals be working on?
LinkedIn's Workplace Learning Report 2023 highlights the top 10 skills companies need right now, based on paid job postings and the skills attributed to professionals who received a recruiter InMail message or were hired in the past six months. These are:
- Management
- Communication
- Customer service
- Leadership
- Sales
- Project management
- Research
- Analytical skills
- Marketing
- Teamwork
This is far from the only list of recommended skills required in today’s working world. A quick Google search for transferable skills lists returns articles on:
- 15 transferable skills that companies want
- 25 transferable skills employers look for
- 60+ transferable skills for your resume
The gist: there are limitless transferable skills that you could develop, but it’s important to find the right skills to focus on as part of your personal and professional journey.
Helen Tupper explains,
"We don't think it's helpful to have a generic list of uber skills, because these skills are just so big that it's not helpful to say "Sarah, you need to know communication, problem-solving, and analytics." If Sarah does a completely different job to me then actually what those skills look like in practice for Sarah are going to be really really different."
Eliminate this feeling of overwhelm with these simple steps:
1. Focus on skills relevant to your career
Forget about everybody else and focus on the skills that are relevant to your career trajectory. Amazing If Co-founder Sarah Ellis says, “A useful coach-yourself question is "Imagine you're going to do your friend's job on Monday—a job you've got zero experience in, no knowledge or expertise in. What are the skills that you would take with you into that job? That's not you pretending to be them, this is you being you, and going to do this imaginary role.”
2. Research job ads
Review current job descriptions and determine which demand skills are included across multiple ads, suggesting that they’re highly sought-after.
3. Use a skills matrix
Create a 2 x 2 skills quadrant, including the following categories:
- Skills that are valuable
- Skills that are not valuable
- Skills that you are interested in
- Skills you are not interested in
Your goal is to work on developing the skills that fall in both the 'valuable skills'/ 'skills that you are interested' in quadrants.
4. Find relevant skills development opportunities
Seek out resources, training opportunities, and mentorships that will enable you to develop relevant skills accordingly. Speak to your manager, career coach, or mentor for advice on skill development and set formal skills targets to work towards.
Applying transferable skills to new career paths
If you’ve successfully identified and enhanced your transferable skills, you may now be considering a career change. To make the transition from your current role as seamless as possible, here are a few tips:
1. Stay abreast of industry trends
Follow blogs or professionals on social media to keep an eye on news and developments in the sector.
2. Connect with people who already work in the field
Reach out to individuals who are experts in the area and ask them questions about their direct experience, what current trends they’re seeing, and how you could break into the profession.
3. Re-frame your transferable skills to match the new role
Think of ways that you can adapt your existing strengths and experiences to fit the job requirements for the new role. For example, Associate Solicitor Jen Shipley describes the transferable skills she learned as a paralegal as she transitioned into being a qualified lawyer.
She explains, "As a paralegal, I quickly learnt that being organised was the only way to manage my workload as I assisted several members of the team on many different cases. It was such a valuable skill to learn which helped me hit the ground running during my training contract and upon qualification. What you may not know, and I certainly didn't, was that as a lawyer, you need to record all of the time you spend on matters. This took some getting used to but by the time my training contract started, I was already in the habit of time recording which helped me to transition into my trainee role more easily."
4. Highlight experience in specific skills
Find ways to demonstrate your breadth of knowledge about a particular skill. In applications or job interviews, showcase accomplishments and instances where you were able to use your transferable skills successfully in similar settings.
5. Lean on your network
Utilise your network who can offer invaluable support during a job search or career change. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and professionals in the field for advice and help when needed. You never know who might be able to open doors for you as you explore new career paths.
In a rapidly evolving job landscape, transferable skills are your passport to adaptability, resilience, and continuous growth.
Whether you're an individual seeking to unlock new career horizons or an organisation striving for excellence, Applied's skills-based approach to recruitment offers a promising future where talent and opportunities align effortlessly. Embrace the future of hiring, and discover a world where skills truly matter: Join Spotlight by Applied today.
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