If you want to secure a job, you’re going to need the skills to do the job. It’s as simple as that. But the question remains, where are you going to learn all of the skills you need to beat out the competition during the job search? One good place to start is to tap into your transferable skills.

According to experts, transferable skills are innate skills acquired throughout life and can be applied to a new job or work environment.

They can be skills such as communication, critical thinking, teamwork, writing, integrity among others. But what is the role of these skills for career growth?

Transferable skills make you adaptable

Reports indicate that versatility is the name of the game in the job market. Employers want people who can do multiple things and fill different roles if needed. When you have skills that apply to a wide variety of things, employers will take note.

You can use transferable skills to secure a job

All employers want job candidates to have experience and skills before they hire them.

Transferable skills are a way for you to show that you can do the job, even if you aren’t the perfect match of the job description.

You already have the right skills

Transferable skills can be learnt everywhere. At home, or at work. The cumulative experiences that you have will dictate what transferable skills you possess.

No matter what you do or where you do it, you have skills. As long as you can figure out how to sell your skills to a hiring manager, you’ll be in a good position.

Transferable skills are yours to keep

You are constantly accumulating transferable skills and no one can take them away from you. These portable skills go with you from job to job. Take account of your skill set and you’ll see how you can apply it to your job search.

Besides, at some point your career path takes you in directions you never imagined.

However, it’s essential to stay fresh, constantly learn and grow, and take advantage of opportunities that come your way. 

You may be asked to take on ‘other duties as assigned’. Sometimes they are not so glitzy and other times they lead to new experiences down the road. 

"No matter where your career takes you, always remember to keep an open mind and don’t count anything out. Truly successful information professionals know their path is a result of fate and carefully calculated decisions,” says Gakuba Vanessa, a businesswoman.