Transferrable skills are valuable because they can be used in many different jobs and across career paths.
Discovering your transferable skills and highlighting them is vital because it can demonstrate that you are a qualified candidate and potentially open different career opportunities.
We spoke with West Michigan Works staff about transferable skills and why employers value those skills in potential employees.
Transferable skills can be soft or hard skills. They can be skills that come naturally or skills that are added and improved through life events and work experience.
Examples of transferable skills include critical thinking, good communication, dependability, adaptability, and leadership.
“Transferable skills are sometimes referred to as portable skills because you always have them with you and take them wherever you go,” said Karen Riggs, talent development specialist in Kent County.
“Transferable skills provide and add value to the employer, the workplace, and the job seekers’ self-esteem and self-worth.”
Transferable skills can help you discover new careers options and put you ahead of other candidates. Some employers search for candidates with specific transferable skills over candidates that need to be trained for the job.
“It can be eye-opening for job seekers when they see the skills required for a job are skills they already have,” said Susan Witzel, a career coach in the West Michigan Works Montcalm service center. “Relevant transferable skills make the job seeker more marketable.”
Transferable skills are more important than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic has closed many businesses, either temporarily or permanently, and many job seekers have had to look for work in different industries.
“Workers are needed badly by employers right now,” said Riggs. “Transferable skills show your potential and shows employers that you are applying because you are interested in learning the job further.”
If you are looking for work, take time to carefully assess your skills. The skills assessment at careeroneshop.org is a great place to start. Or call a West Michigan Works service center to make an in-person or virtual appointment.
— Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works. Learn more about how they can help at visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.
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