Building Transferable Skills for Improved Employability
Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or looking to enter a career, understanding and showcasing transferable skills is crucial. In fact, 55% of employers said they value transferable skills when hiring a new employee.
In this blog, we'll explore what transferable skills are, why employers value them, and, most importantly, how you can develop and demonstrate them through everyday experiences including those gained on college courses at TMC.
What are transferable skills?
Transferable skills are abilities and competencies that are applicable across various jobs, industries, and contexts. Unlike job-specific skills, which are tied to a particular role, transferable skills are versatile and portable.
These skills, such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork, are developed throughout life through various experiences, including work, education, and personal activities and can be used in almost any job. They are highly valued by employers because they indicate a candidate's adaptability and potential to succeed in diverse roles.
What are the most important employability skills?
The Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network “STEMNET” has defined the Top Ten Employability Skills as being:
1. Communication and interpersonal skills
2. Problem-solving skills
3. Using your initiative and being self-motivated
4. Working under pressure and to deadlines
5. Organisational skills
6. Team working
7. Ability to learn and adapt
8. Numeracy
9. Valuing diversity and difference
10. Negotiation skills
Employability is all about maximising your potential. When selling yourself to a future employer, think about what you have learned from some recent work experience, study activity, or even from a hobby or outside interest - and how you can use (“transfer”) what you have learned to show evidence of the skills employers are looking for. Boosting your transferable skills is also an effective way to increase your salary, so it is important to be well-equipped.
Here at TMC, we design our courses to provide you with the best opportunities for employability upon completion. Learn how our courses prepare you for 7 fastest-growing industries.
How can you gain transferable skills?
Communication skills through clubs and societies
You can hone your communication skills by actively participating in clubs and societies. Engage in discussions, present your ideas and collaborate with peers to improve how clearly you articulate your thoughts, listen effectively and build rapport. Seek feedback from fellow members to further refine these crucial skills.
Problem-solving skills during academic work
Academic work offers a structured environment for you to develop problem-solving abilities. Enhance these skills by systematically breaking down assignments, identifying key issues and exploring potential solutions. Document your problem-solving process and actively contribute to group projects to strengthen this vital competency.
Building initiative through personal projects
Show initiative by starting personal projects or volunteering for leadership roles. You can cultivate this skill by pursuing your interests, identifying community needs and proactively developing solutions. This proactive approach showcases your ability to take ownership and drive projects forward.
Planning and organisation during exam deadlines & projects
Effectively managing exam deadlines and project timelines is crucial for demonstrating planning and organisation skills. Develop these skills by creating detailed schedules, utilising planning tools and consistently tracking progress. Completing group projects with structured timelines and task delegation further reinforces these abilities.
Time management through meeting deadlines
Meeting deadlines consistently showcases strong time management skills. Improve by setting daily and weekly goals, prioritising tasks and eliminating distractions. Practice time estimation and consistently adhere to schedules to solidify this essential skill.
Teamwork during team sports & clubs
Participating in team sports and clubs provides practical experience in teamwork. By actively listening, respecting diverse opinions, and contributing to shared goals, you can develop collaboration skills. Volunteering for team roles and working with individuals from varied backgrounds enhances this capability.
Learning from feedback from academic work & creative projects
Actively seek and apply feedback to ensure continuous improvement. You can enhance this skill by reflecting on mistakes, incorporating tutor comments and revising your work. Creative projects that require iterative improvements further strengthen this ability.
Numeracy skills through data collection
Utilising data and calculations in academic work and projects demonstrates numeracy skills. Improve by taking relevant courses, analysing data, and participating in projects that require quantitative analysis. Managing budgets for clubs or organisations also provides practical experience.
Negotiation and conflict resolution during group projects
Reaching agreements and resolving conflicts in group projects demonstrates negotiation and conflict resolution skills. Cultivate these skills by practicing active listening, seeking compromises and focusing on win-win solutions. Acting as a mediator in disagreements further enhances this ability.
How to prove your transferable skills to employers
As a recent graduate, prove your transferable skills to employers by tailoring your resume and cover letter with specific examples of how you've used skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving, using action verbs and quantifiable results.
During interviews, use the STAR method to demonstrate these skills with concrete situations, tasks, actions, and results. Build a portfolio showcasing relevant projects and leverage LinkedIn to highlight your abilities and network, while emphasising soft skills.
Show enthusiasm and a growth mindset, demonstrating your eagerness to learn and contribute, and always be prepared with specific examples that prove your abilities.
How TMC builds students transferable skills
TMC builds your transferable skills through supportive learning, varied assessments, and rich opportunities, pushing you to grow. Step outside your comfort zone and develop vital skills for your future. Explore our courses and enrol today!