In today's dynamic job market, employers are looking for candidates who possess a wide range of skills that can be applied to various roles and situations. These skills, often referred to as transferable skills, are the foundation of a successful career.
Transferable skills are skills that can be carried from one job to another or, one industry to another. They can be acquired through education, training, experience, hobbies or even day-to-day activities, and can be used in a variety of different settings.
So, whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a change, understanding what transferable skills employers are looking for is essential for achieving long-term success. Here are 5 transferable skills employers will be looking for:
Adaptability/Flexibility
In today's fast-paced and uncertain business environment, company culture and ways of working are always transforming so it's becoming increasingly important for organisations to have flexible and high-resilient employees to adapt to the changes.
As a result, employers are looking for team players that can contribute to the company in challenging circumstances but also work independently when required. It will be important to be aware of the changes in your environment and show a willingness to accept and learn from change.
With employees having to adjust their work style and day-to-day routines to accommodate changing work environments and business needs, you’ll need to show future employers an ability to adapt and take on any new changes or challenges you may be faced with.
Digital Skills
Basic computer literacy is usually a desired skill for many roles. However, now it is even more essential to have good digital and technical skills in the workplace. Recent events have meant the workplace has become progressively more digital and tech focused as many employees are having to work from home or communicate virtually. Therefore, employers will be looking for candidates who already have or are willing to develop their digital abilities and adapt to a more digital way of work.
There’s no need to worry if you aren’t the most tech savvy person because these are skills you can learn, improve and even get certified on while undertaking your job search. There are several professional certifications available online which can cover the basics of the most programs such as Microsoft Office. However, there are also plenty of online learning guides and YouTube videos that can help you to brush up on your digital skills without spending any money.
Communication and Leadership Skills
Leadership skills are becoming a more common trait searched for by employers, but this doesn’t necessarily mean just for management roles. In an increasingly virtual work environment, employers are looking for individuals that can demonstrate leadership skills at all levels and communicate effectively across a variety of channels– leading by example, making difficult decisions when needed and working towards the company’s goals/mission. With fewer face-to-face interactions due to the increase of remote and hybrid working, effective communication can sometimes be more difficult and so there are more opportunities for people at all levels to take the lead.
You can demonstrate good leadership skills to an employer by providing examples of times you think you have used this skill – taking on responsibility, having to make a tough decision or leading others.
Diverse Thinking
There is a growing recognition for diversity and inclusion within organisations, with companies actively seeking to build more diverse teams.
Diverse thinking allows individuals to approach problems and situations from multiple perspectives which can lead to more innovative solutions. It can enhance creativity by approaching things in a different way, improve decision-making by ensuring all viewpoints are considered and increase empathy and understanding of others.
It will be a priority for employers to have employees who can make a difference in teams, not only with their experience but also with their creative and diverse thinking skills.
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to use and manage your own emotions in order to understand and empathise other people’s feelings. It also involves good communication to create positive social interactions and overcome challenges. Therefore, during challenging times, this is a skill of high importance for employers.
Like leadership, this is a mind-set based skill, meaning it doesn’t need a qualification to be proven. As a candidate, you’ll want to convince employers you can make a positive impact in the workplace. It will be your job to demonstrate emotional intelligence and show consideration of others; whether that’s by adapting workloads in response to the struggles of those around you, reassuring and supporting others during difficult times or keeping open communication.
It’s important to remember that as well as the skills directly associated to the job you’re applying for, employers are also looking for the soft skills that you can bring to their team. These skills can be applied across a variety of roles, so before applying for a job think about your current qualities and the transferable skillsyou may have that can support your application.
Now you are aware of the skills employers are looking for, let’s find you a job! Register with us today to be first to hear about our latest temporary and permanent jobs.
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