Hello ,

If you have been reading my blog or coached by me, you will know that you need to understand yourself better than everything else before going out in the world. I tell you, don’t be the shoemaker who wears the worst shoes! Be the shoemaker who wears beautiful shoes with pride. Be a proud and articulate professional about your career values, skills, strengths, and accomplishments. Know them inside out! Say proudly: "I am the SME (subject-matter expert) of ME." 

I get it, you don’t like to talk about yourself, or you don’t like to sell yourself. You know what? That is a mindset! Yes, you believe in your mind that you don’t like to talk about yourself, so you do nothing and think that miraculously when you go to an interview or your network, people will know instantly the value you would bring them, and they will see how much of a nice person you are.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it ain’t going to happen!

I’ve seen it so many times. When my client starts filling out their workbook with their values, skills, and accomplishments, they come to our next meeting transformed, proud and confident of what they have done. They can confidently give their elevator speech, answer interview questions instantly and professionally, and engage in meaningful conversations when networking. And the best thing is that they don’t feel like they are trying to sell themselves. Instead, they feel like they are helping the other person understand the value they bring. And that’s the key! Helping! 

In today's rapidly evolving job market, a successful career transition often relies on recognizing and leveraging transferable skills. These versatile abilities, honed in one context, can be applied to new roles or industries, providing professionals with a competitive edge. This blog post aims to highlight the significance of transferable skills and offer practical strategies for identifying, developing, and utilizing them during a career transition. Whether contemplating a change or actively pursuing new opportunities, understanding how to unlock your transferable skills can pave the way for a smooth and successful transition.

1. Understanding Transferable Skills: These abilities, also known as portable or universal skills, can be applied across various roles, industries, or situations. Unlike job-specific skills tied to a specific occupation, transferable skills are versatile and adaptable, often developed through education, previous work experiences, volunteering, or personal interests. Transferable skills include communication, leadership, problem-solving, time management, and adaptability.
2. Identifying Your Transferable Skills: Recognizing your transferable skills is crucial in preparing for a career transition. Begin by assessing your current skill set and considering the skills that have been consistently valuable throughout your professional journey. Reflect on experiences and accomplishments, paying attention to the skills you employed to achieve success. Additionally, seek feedback from colleagues, supervisors, or mentors who can provide insights into your strengths and abilities. Online assessments and career resources can also assist in identifying transferable skills.
3. Developing Transferable Skills: While some transferable skills come naturally, others can be developed and strengthened over time. Invest in professional development opportunities, such as workshops, courses, or certifications, to enhance specific transferable skills. Seek out challenging assignments or projects that allow you to practice and refine these skills in your current role. Additionally, consider joining professional associations, networking events, or engaging in community activities that enable you to interact with diverse individuals and broaden your skill set.
4. Leveraging Transferable Skills for Career Transitions: Effective leveraging of transferable skills can increase your chances of securing new opportunities during a career transition. Start by researching your target industry or role to understand the skills and qualifications that are in demand. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant transferable skills that align with the requirements of the new position. During interviews, showcase specific examples where you successfully applied transferable skills to solve problems, lead teams, or drive results. Additionally, utilize your professional network to connect with individuals who can offer guidance or recommend you for new roles based on your transferable skills.
5. Embracing Continuous Learning and Adaptation: As the job market evolves, embracing continuous learning and adaptability is essential. Stay informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and changes in job requirements. Seek opportunities to upskill or reskill, ensuring your transferable skills remain relevant and valuable. Stay open-minded and willing to explore new roles or industries that align with your transferable skills and interests. You can navigate career transitions more effectively by embracing lifelong learning and adapting to new challenges.

Recognizing and leveraging transferable skills can be a game-changer when starting a career transition. These versatile abilities bridge different roles and industries, allowing professionals to adapt and thrive in a changing job market. By understanding the significance of transferable skills, identifying your strengths, developing them further, and strategically leveraging them during transitions, you can position yourself for success. 

Remember, a successful career transition is not solely about the specific job you have held in the past; it's about the valuable skills and experiences you bring to the table. Embrace the power of transferable skills and embark on a fulfilling and prosperous professional journey.

P.S. Free workshop on June 28th at 12:00 pm Eastern about personal branding, optimizing your LinkedIn profile, and so much more. You'll be glad you joined us!

Reserve your spot now by registering here. If you know someone who would be interested, forward them the email.

Are you considering a career change? Just reply to this email if you would like to chat.

You can also book a chat here 😊

Until next week,

Be at peace, just where you are

Joanne Savoie-Malone

P.S. If you know somebody who would benefit from this information, please have them subscribe to my blog at www.joannesavoiemalone.com, and they will get a free guide on acing their interview.