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QUESTION: I am looking for a new job with functions completely different from my previous position. How do I identify transferrable skills from the last job that can help me in my job search?

Jane Roqueplot, JaneCo's Sensible Solutions

Transferrable and soft skills are critical for satisfactory job acquisition. Accurately determine your natural soft skills and adaptability. NRWA Authorized DISC Administrators will do this for you. Your soft skills let your writer learn how your natural traits contributed to positive outcomes which become the accomplishments/quantifiable results showcased for your job search campaign materials.

Paula Christensen, Strategic Career Coaches

Talk with individuals who currently hold your targeted role and ask them what skills are important for success. You can also search LinkedIn for people who currently hold that position. If you peruse enough of their Skills sections, you’ll get a feel for the critical skills needed. After themes have been identified, craft your resume accomplishments and key results around those skills.

Edward Lawrence, Getstarted LLC

First, make a list of your skills—both measurable (hard) and personality (soft). Then review postings for the new role and similar roles; highlighting the required skills and products required. Compare the two lists! You can also look at your own résumé. What skills do all your positions have in common? Finally, consider paying for a transferable skills assessment.

Elaine Doremus, Resumes Written

Make your skills more general, as needed. Example: On your resume it may say: Trained employees on cash register. To make it more general: Oriented new employees on company equipment. Example: Your resume: Designed efficient form and desk procedure for engineering department. More general: Developed efficient office systems.

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Monica Reyes

Make a list of the parts of your experience that you enjoy and would like to see in your future career choices. You’ll be amazed to see what pops up in a job search with just searching under a skill. That will give you a good idea on what opportunities are available to you and start there.

Tammeca Riley, Infinite Potential Resumes

First, review similar job descriptions and take an inventory of the skills mentioned. Next, assess your skills, identify your transferable capabilities, and compare the lists. Also, consider using websites like careeronestop.org and bls.gov/ooh/ for more insight. Volunteer work counts, too. Don’t negate your experiences, skills, and capabilities just because you didn’t receive a paycheck.

Alexia Scott, A Winning Resume, LLC

Let your target position guide you. Your first step? Go to a site like www.indeed.com and look for three listings describing positions you would definitely apply for. (Don’t enter a location in your search; we’re just doing research.) From those, determine the experience and achievements that companies prize the most in hiring for this position. Emphasize relevant experience in your resume!

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