
Mar 12, 2021 - 02:43 PM
Transferable skills are skills you've acquired through education, internships or work experience that can be used to switch to a new career path.They are either soft skills like communication, leadership, relationship-building, problem-solving and desirable personal traits, or hard skills like knowing a second language or a widely-used computer program.
Transferable skills are valued in a range of professions. A high school teacher, for example, who has strong communication skills may be able to leverage her skill set to land an entry-level job in human resources. Or a social worker who knows Spanish can pitch his bilingual credentials when applying for any job in which a second language is required.
When you're looking for work outside your industry, make sure to read each job description closely before you apply. Identify the skills you already have, and add them to your resume and cover letter. This improves your chances of catching a hiring manager's attention.