What are transferable skills?

These are general skills you can use in many jobs. You gain these skills from previous jobs, projects, voluntary work, sport, your home life, hobbies, and interests. They enable you to be adaptable and flexible in case you need to change your job.

What are employers looking for?

As well as IT, numeracy and languages, employers want their staff to be experienced in:

• problem solving
• organising
• communicating effectively
• working to deadlines
• management and leadership
• negotiating
• motivating people
• making decisions
• research skills.

How can I show employers I've got the skills they need?

If you’re planning a career change, look at the skills mentioned in job adverts. Which have you got and which do you need to work on? Change your CV so that it lists your skills first, and not your education or previous jobs.

I need some advice - who can I talk to?

If you'd like to talk about your transferable skills, call 0800 100 900 and ask for a Careers Advice Service Careers Coach.

You can also email an adviser or request a call back at a time to suit you.