How to emphasize valuable transferable skills, even when your background doesn’t perfectly match a job’s credential requirements.
When you read a job description for a job you want to apply for, your skill set may not always match.
This is a perfect time to emphasize your transferable skills to help you get the job. Transferable skills are those that you gain from your classes, internships, and previous jobs or volunteering of any kind. They are qualities you have that just about any employer will find appealing such as leadership, communication, and teamwork. Here are some ways you can focus on these skills when your set of strengths don’t exactly line up with a job description.
Research the job.
The first thing you can do to match your transferable skills is doing a deep dive into the specific industry and job you are applying for. Make note of the top skills, experiences, and qualifications that are ideal in this field. One way to do this is by looking at different job descriptions from various companies and compare which ones list the same skills. Look for keywords that are used over and over again and think about skills that relate.
Match skills and provide examples.
Once you find these key words and set of skills that seem specific for your industry and desired job, compare what you find with the transferable skills you have. That might start with making a list of what you would consider your transferable skills, including those related to dependability, organization, flexibility, active listening, and being analytical. After you find some connections, come up with examples from your past experiences that illustrate these skills and how they can benefit your new employer. Make sure to include quantifiable results where you can.
Update your resume and cover letter and prepare for your interviews.
After you’ve done this work, find ways to put these skills throughout your cover letters and resume. Take this opportunity to use industry-specific keywords in your descriptions. This shows your familiarity with your field and will give them confidence you can step right into your new role. Also, prepare for interview questions you may receive about transferable skills as it relates to your industry. Be ready to give relevant examples you’ve prepared from your research of what matters to this company.
Today’s job market can be tough between the numbers of people applying for jobs and getting your resume past AI, so showcasing your transferable skills puts you one step ahead.
If you’re changing your career, trying to move up in your company, or applying for you first ever job, transferable skills helps tell an employer who you are. It also shows them how you can hit the ground running in your new position. Start thinking today how to highlight these skills in all aspects of your job application.
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