How to know which of skills are transferrable

How to apply for jobs that suit your skillset

Finding a job that suits your skillset is important for your future career development. If you apply and receive a job you are over qualified for, you are likely to be unhappy in your new role as you won’t find it challenging or rewarding in any way. If you are applying for a position you are underqualified for, you are likely going to be wasting time on your application as the company will find someone more qualified for the position. This time could be better spent on applications for jobs better suited for you. Either way, finding a job that is suited to your skillset can be harder than it sounds. And if you are in a job that does not suit you skillset it can have a detrimental effect on your career development. 

When applying for jobs you should consider your generic and specific skills. Generic skills are general ones that most jobs have such as communication, team work, interpersonal skills and others. Specific skills are skills required for particular jobs and/or industries. These skills might include operation of certain types of equipment, having a particular degree or specific number of years of experience. Most jobs have a combination of generic and specific skills which you will need to consider when applying.

Experience is an important factor in applying for jobs that suit your skillset. You gain and improve your skills over time through experience. Looking for similar jobs that have similar job duties is a good way of determining if the job you are applying for will suit your skillset.

When looking at your skill set you should also consider your hard and soft skills. Soft skills are personal attributes which enhance your job performance and career prospects. Soft skills are interpersonal and broadly applicable. These can include integrity, responsibility, leadership, empathy etc. Hard skills are specific, teachable skills such as qualifications. When you are applying for a job, you should ensure that both your hard and soft skills match the required skillset for the position. This will ensure the best possible fit between you and the job.

How to determine if the job you are applying for matches your skill set?

Once you know your skill set and what to keep an eye out for when applying for jobs, how do you determine if you really match the job you are applying for?

First consider the skills you believe are necessary to do the job. Once you know what you think is needed to do the job, look at what the company has listed as required skills. The first things jobseekers will generally think about is hard skills but don’t forget to consider your soft skills. For instance, if you are an independent person who likes working alone, how will you go in a company that values teamwork? It is important to consider all aspects of the job to determine a good match.

Transferable skills are important in this area. You may have skills you acquired in one job but believe they can be transferred and used in the job you are applying for. Many people don’t consider how they can transfer their skills from one position to another.

Applying for a job that matches your skill set

Once you have determined a match between your skill set and a job, when applying for the job you should ensure you demonstrate this match. Clearly show these skills in your resume, make sure to address them specifically when you are applying to show recruiters that you have the required skills needed to perform the job. If you are talking about transferable skills, make sure you demonstrate how these skills apply to the job you want. It is not enough to just list the skills, you need show why you are a perfect match to the job.