Transferable skills.... Grads - listen up!

You probably have heard the term “transferable skills” many times throughout your college and/or professional career. But do you know what that term really means, and more importantly, what your own transferable skills are? Transferable skills are those skills you have honed in one experience that can be adapted to a different experience. Leadership experiences are full of opportunities for transferable skill development. And, in today’s job market, identifying your transferable skills can be very valuable.

As you prepare to apply for fall leadership positions, internships, summer jobs or your first "real" job...don't dismiss your transferable skills! So, how do you go about determining what your current transferable skills are? Consider these steps:

1. Dissect past experiences: Review past job descriptions and responsibilities. And, don’t forget any hobbies, service or involvement opportunities you have had.

2. Take notes: Identify and write down key skills that you gained from past experiences. Create an extensive list, don’t keep it small.

3. Identify desired positions/experiences: Whether you are looking for a job or seeking a new leadership position on campus, you need to determine what your ultimate goals are, and how and where you want to contribute your skills and time.

4. Change language: Once you have identified your skills and your desired “next step” you can create your list of transferable skills that successfully market you for the role you are seeking (i.e. fundraising experience = sales experience OR hall programming = event planning).

5. Visit your Career Services Office: You have a valuable resource on campus that can assist you in translating your transferable skills on to a resume, cover letter and an interview. In addition, many Career Services Offices can help you match your transferable skills with potential career options. Take advantage of these services!

When was the last time you reviewed and revised your resume? Reflect on your past experiences and see if you can come up with some new ways to showcase your transferable skills. And, while you are at it, keep these “basics” in mind…

• Avoid slang – don’t make potential employers guess what you are talking about.

• Consolidate your experiences - you aren’t writing a memoir, you are compiling a resume. Try to limit your resume to one to two pages with the highlights of your experiences.

• Go beyond the paid positions - include any volunteer experiences or hobbies that provided you with specific marketable skills.

• Second set of eyes - ask a mentor, supervisor or friend to review your resume for clarification, typos and to ensure you didn’t forget to include anything.