TOP TRANSFERABLE JOB SKILLS By Carol Stanton, CGS Career Counselor

When you go to revise your resume next time, be sure to focus on those universal skills that are transferable to other jobs.  These skills are valued by employers, especially for positions requiring responsibility.  It doesn't matter if you learned these skills in your current job, past jobs, volunteer work, or other experiences.  Being able to highlight them on your resume will give you an added bonus and make your resume stand out.  In The Complete Job-Search Handbook, Howard Figler identifies some of the following skills:

Organizing/Managing:
Whether you've managed an office or a program for the PTA, having the ability to organize and manage a project is a top transferable skill that will be in needed in any type of work environment. 

Supervising:
Being able to take responsibility for the work of others, delegating tasks, solving interpersonal problems are just some of the skills which you learn from being in a supervisory position.  Excellent communication skills are always in demand.

Writing:
The ability to express yourself in an intelligent way in writing is a valued job skill whether it's in a memo, email or newsletter.   Most positions require some form of written expression, so having experience and ability in this area gives you an advantage.

Speaking/Public Relations:  
Having the ability to speak in front of groups or deal well with the public is a rare skill.  Many people have a fear of public speaking, so if you are experienced and confident in this area, you will be in an elite group of job candidates.

Teaching/Instructing:  
Good job training is essential in the work place and is often a neglected area.  It takes excellent communication and interpersonal skills to be able to explain things to others in a clear and concise way.

Budget Management:  
Many people are intimidated by numbers and managing a budget.
If you have experience or can gain experience in this area in your current job or through volunteer work, you will be eligible for more managerial types of positions.

Interviewing:  
Being able to question people and obtain useful information is a worthwhile skill to cultivate.  Whether you are working in human relations or project management, the art of questioning and obtaining information is invaluable.

Negotiating/Arbitrating:  
This is a sophisticated and highly delicate form of communication.  Having the skills to arbitrate in a work situation can be challenging
but rewarding. Those with negotiation skills will be in high demand.

Computer Skills:  
Most types of experience and skills you have with computers will be of benefit to employers.  Don't underestimate this area and be sure to include all of your computer skills in a section on your resume.

     Remember, most employers are interested in how you can help them and are looking for the job candidate with the best skills.  By highlighting your transferable skills on your resume, you will be making a good case for them to hire you.  If your current job does not afford you the opportunity to develop or hone these skills, seek out volunteer work, take classes in these areas, or develop projects of your own.

     If you need help in identifying your transferable skills or have other questions related to your career, contact Carol Stanton, CGS Career Counselor at 412 624-1689 or email cstanton@pitt.edu .