The back-to-school season always brings a sense of fresh starts and new opportunities. Students sharpen pencils, crack open new notebooks, and move up to the next grade.
In many ways, professionals go through the same thing. Sometimes you need to “switch classes”—whether that’s changing industries, shifting roles, or pursuing a new career path altogether.
The good news? You already have the tools to succeed. Transferable skills are your backpack full of supplies. They go with you, no matter where you’re headed next.
Why Transferable Skills Are Your “Core Subjects”
Just like math, reading, and science form the foundation of a student’s education, transferable skills form the foundation of your career.
Transferable skills are skills that apply across industries and roles, and skills employers value no matter what job title you’re chasing. Examples of those skills:
- Communication
- Leadership
- Project management
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability
These skills give employers more insight into your experiences and prove that you continue to improve. This is proof that you’re dedicated to growing your career and the company’s bottom line.
How to “Do Your Homework” on Your Skills
Before you can utilize those transferable skills and pivot in your career, you need to know how to effectively communicate what you bring to the table. That starts with reviewing your past assignments and accomplishments.
Look back at previous roles and projects and answer these three questions:
- What was the goal of the project?
- How did you use communication, leadership, project management, problem-solving, and adaptability skills to mee that goal?
- What is a specific example you can use?
For example, instead of saying “I led a team.”
Explain in detail what skillsets you utilized: How many people did you lead? What challenges did you overcome? What measurable results did you deliver? Think of these achievements as your professional report card for future employers.
Upgrading Your “Supplies”
Once you know your skills, it’s time to make sure your career tools are ready for the new semester:
- LinkedIn is your digital yearbook. Keep it updated with your best work, keywords that connect across industries, and endorsements from colleagues who know your strengths.
- Your résumé is your syllabus. Tailor it for the class (career path) you’re taking next. Highlight transferable skills alongside achievements that show results.
- Your networking pitch is your show-and-tell. Be ready to explain your skills in a way that makes sense to a new audience. Practice telling your story in a way that shows how your experiences connect to your next role.
Exploring New “Electives”
Sometimes your “major”—a niche role or specialized field—may not be available anymore, or it may not feel like the right fit. That’s where your electives come in. Transferable skills open doors to new industries you may not have considered.
Curious about where else your skills could take you? Think of informational interviews as office hours with teachers. Talking with professionals in a new field gives you insight into what’s possible and helps you learn how your background can translate. Ask to job shadow or talk to a mentor in a field you’re interested in to learn more!
Why “Study Groups” Help You Succeed
You don’t have to navigate a pivot alone. Recruiters and staffing companies act like guidance counselors. They help you connect the dots between your experience and new opportunities, showing you industries and companies that value the skills you already have.
At Westphal Staffing, we see the big picture. We know where demand is growing and how to position your transferable skills to land interviews and offers. Think of us as your study group! The people who make sure you’re prepared for every test along the way.
Your Career = Lifelong Learning
A career pivot isn’t about starting over—it’s about moving up to the next grade. You’re building on what you’ve already learned, layering new experiences on top of a strong foundation.
This back-to-school season, reframe your career transition as part of your lifelong learning journey. With the right perspective, transferable skills, and guidance, you’ll discover new doors opening in unexpected places.
Ready to map out your next semester?
Let our team at Westphal Staffing help you chart the course for your next career move. Whether you’re looking for guidance on interview preparation or seeking your next leadership opportunity, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Call or text us today at (715) 845-5569!