Do You Know The Importance of Transferable Skills?

Skills that you have developed throughout your life are abilities that can actually help you land a job. These skills are known as, transferable skills and can be acquired through personal experiences such as schooling, jobs, classes, hobbies or sports. No need to be fearful about leaving your skills behind when changing jobs. These abilities can travel with you whenever you changeover to a new job, position or career. It is important to be able to properly identify and provide appropriate examples of the transferable skills you have developed. Not only will this help improve your resume, but it can assist in persuading prospective employers or managers to want you on their team.

Communication

Speaking clearly and listening carefully are what make up this invaluable skill called communication. Good communication is necessary when working with a team or even when working alone. How we utilize words and phrases are a tiny part of how we communicate to each other. Most individuals often overlook other types of communication used in the workplace like: verbal, nonverbal and written communication. Whether you’re reporting to your boss or are working with your coworkers, communication is imperative in preventing errors, failure and sometimes lawsuits. Communication skills include, but are not limited to:

• Listening
• Empathy
• Open-Mindedness
• Friendliness
• Confidence

Team Work

Possessing the qualities to work independently as well as with a team is a great attribute. Having a strong team in the workplace can allow for projects to be executed more efficiently. When multiple individuals work on the same project, each can focus on different areas of the same problem and provide reciprocal support. The American Management Association explained that when fellow associates collaborate together, “in an atmosphere of trust and accountability toward a common goal, they put aside turf issues and politics and focus on the tasks to be done. This focus of resources overcomes barriers, helps to identify new opportunities, and builds a momentum.” The outcomes of teamwork include:

• Better outcomes
• Greater ideas
• Efficiency
• A sense of accomplishment
• Mutual Support

Planning and Organization

This two-in-one skill can help you land a job and benefit businesses alike. Throughout life we are involved in various forms of planning and organization during daily activities and mastering them is desirable. In the workplace planning incorporates identifying what needs to be improved, envisioning the results and determining the proper steps to achieve the desired result. Similar to planning, organization is a skill that we’ve all picked up throughout our life experiences. Having this skill in your back pocket can enhance efficiency and can reduce work related stress. A well organized workplace can create a more relaxing environment. Planning and Organization skillsinclude, but are not limited to:

• Setting schedules and targets
• Making arrangements
• Monitoring progress towards targets
• Working independently

Problem Solving

Problem solving is the act of working through the specifics of a problem to find an outcome. This universal job skill applies to many positions in almost every industry. Although this is a good skill to have on your resume, it is necessary to show specific examples of how you were able to use this skill in past positions. In a national study of business and nonprofit leaders done by the Association of American Colleges and University, “Nearly all employers surveyed (93 percent) say that “a demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems is more important than [a candidate’s] undergraduate major.”” All things considered, those who mastered this skill have the same fundamental approach to problem solving which include, but are not limited to:

• Analytical skills
• Finding solutions to problems or challenges
• Overcoming obstacles

At Spring Hills Senior Communities, we understand the value of our staffs transferable skills. The training programs we offer will allow you to build up both professional and transferable skills and ensure that we are providing the best care and meet the needs of all of our residents. Our Director of Business Office Development, Toni Salo, explains, “Many of our new associates have strengths and skills that are transferable to any industry. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply and work with us.” For more information about our company culture, click here.