How to Identify and Market Your Transferable Skills

When you’re thinking about your next career move—especially after a layoff or when you’re ready for a change—one question almost always comes up: “But do my skills actually transfer to something else? ”The answer is almost always yes. The challenge is knowing which skills matter most, and how to talk about them in a way that employers immediately understand.

What Are Transferable Skills, Really?

Transferable skills are strengths you carry from one role, industry, or chapter of your life to another. They’re not tied to a specific job title—they’re tied to how you work and what you bring to the table.Think:- Leading projects across multiple teams- Training new employees- Managing tight deadlines- Problem-solving under pressure- Building strong client relationshipsThese skills are in demand everywhere. The key is recognizing them—and marketing them clearly.

Why They Matter More Than Ever

In today’s job market, companies aren’t just hiring for technical fit. They’re hiring for adaptability, collaboration, and strategic thinking. Transferable skills are proof that you’re more than your last title—you’re a professional who can learn, lead, and deliver in new environments.

How to Identify Your Transferable Skills

Ask yourself:- What do people consistently rely on me for?- What types of problems do I solve best?- In past roles, what did I learn quickly—and where did I help others grow?Review old performance reviews or ask trusted colleagues for their perspective. You’ll often uncover strengths you’ve overlooked because they come so naturally to you.

Marketing Transferable Skills Effectively

It’s not enough to list “communication skills” or “teamwork” on your resume. Show them in action. For example: ❌ “Excellent communicator” ✅ “Presented project updates weekly to executive leadership, ensuring alignment and timely decisions.” When you frame your transferable skills with specific examples, you connect the dots for employers—and stand out with confidence.

Your Skills Are More Valuable Than You Think

Don’t underestimate what you bring to the table just because you’re exploring a new role or industry. Transferable skills are your secret advantage if you take time to identify, articulate, and market them clearly.

Want help positioning your skills for your next chapter? Let’s talk.