In today’s ever-shifting job market, workers need transferable skills to be able to navigate new opportunities and find career success. While specialized job skills remain valuable, companies are looking for versatile employees with a broad range of transferable skills that can be used across several work domains or departments.
This article delves into the core concepts of transferable skills, highlighting the top 10 soft skills in tech that can help career changers make an easier transition. We offer tips to help you assess your existing skill set and pinpoint your strengths. These skills can also benefit recent graduates, job seekers, and tech professionals seeking to stay competitive in their current roles. Let’s look at the transferable skills that hold the key to success in today’s job market.
What Are Transferable Skills?
Transferable skills cover a wide range of abilities that are not tied to a specific job or industry. They are the skills that can be carried with you from one role to another, going beyond the boundaries of job titles and fields. According to a 2023 ZipRecruiter report, 93 percent of employers said that soft skills “play a critical role in their decision” when hiring. This shows that companies want people who can bring a diverse range of job skills to their organizations.
10 Most Essential Transferable Skills for Tech Career Changers
Technical abilities are not the only determining factor when it comes to getting a job in tech. Soft skills matter in tech, too. A diverse set of transferable skills can significantly boost your success and adaptability in the fast-paced tech industry. Below are the ten most valuable transferable skills to have for tech career changers.
1. Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills go hand in hand in the workplace. Analytical thinking is the ability to break down complex problems into smaller parts and understand how they are related. It’s like figuring out how different puzzle pieces fit together to form a clear picture. It involves observing, analyzing, and making logical connections to find a solution.
As a tech professional, analytical thinking skills can help you process information, make decisions, and solve problems by examining the details, understanding their significance, and finding the best way to approach a situation.
Tech Roles That Require Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
- Software developer
- Project manager
- Data analyst
- Quality assurance (QA) engineer
- Data architect
2. Digital Literacy
Digital literacy refers to the ability to use and understand digital technologies and tools effectively. This transferable skill is the most useful when navigating and understanding the digital world around us. Being digitally literate means knowing how to use software and apps, browse the internet safely, and complete tasks using digital tools. Beyond that, you need to understand concepts like online privacy, cyber security, and ethics.
This is one of the most important transferable skills to have if you are looking to break into tech. As the industry continues to evolve, businesses value tech-savvy employees who are proficient in using various digital tools, platforms, and technologies. It doesn’t mean that you have to know how to use every software available. It simply means you have the basic knowledge or are willing to learn how to use them effectively.
Tech Roles That Require Digital Literacy
- Web developer
- UX/UI designer
- Technical writer
- Data scientist
- Technical support specialist
3. Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and manage our own emotions and the emotions of people around us. It means being aware of how emotions can influence our thoughts and actions. It helps us handle stress, communicate effectively, and build positive relationships with others. It also involves empathy. Emotionally intelligent people consider and respond to emotions with care and understanding.
Some of the best tech roles for people with high emotional intelligence are ones that are user-facing. UI/UX designers, for example, focus on providing the best experience by understanding how users interact, think, respond, and feel. This job skill can help you build better relationships, navigate social situations, and connect with others on a deeper level.
Tech Roles That Require Emotional Intelligence
- UX designer
- Product manager
- Web developer
- Sales development representative
- Digital marketer
4. Adaptability and Flexibility
The tech industry is a fast-paced environment where changes can happen rapidly. This is why companies need employees that are adaptable to changes and challenges. In a dynamic work environment, being adaptable means quickly adjusting to changes and being open to learning new things.
Flexibility is also crucial. You may need to take on different roles which require you to step outside of your usual job descriptions temporarily. Being open and flexible shows your employer that you’re a good team player. This transferable skill also comes in handy when dealing with uncertainty. If you are highly adaptable and flexible, you can easily maintain composure and find workable solutions when facing unexpected challenges at work.
Tech Roles That Require Adaptability and Flexibility
- Game developer
- Digital marketer
- Software developer
- Computer programmer
- DevOps engineer
5. Critical Thinking
Businesses often deal with challenges that require unique solutions. Critical thinking involves logical reasoning, creativity, and the ability to think outside the box to solve problems. It means not just accepting things at face value but digging deeper to understand the issue and find relevant connections. Critical thinkers are usually curious and inquisitive.
In the workplace, critical thinking is highly valued by employers since it leads to better problem-solving and more effective decision-making. This job skill demonstrates your ability to approach problems with a strategic mindset, which can help contribute towards the organization’s success and overall growth.
Tech Roles That Require Critical Thinking Skills
- Cyber security specialist
- Data scientist
- Artificial intelligence (AI) engineer
- Project manager
- Software engineer
6. Communication
Communication skills refer to the ability to convey and exchange information, ideas, and feelings effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and clients. Communication extends beyond active listening and speaking. It is also conveyed through body language, facial expressions, and gestures.
In the workplace, effective communication is important on all levels. As a tech professional, you may be required to work on a team, so being able to communicate clearly and effectively can help you achieve your goals better collectively. If you are a part of management, creating a clear flow of communication can significantly increase productivity and boost team morale.
Tech Roles That Require Communication Skills
- Web designer
- Technical writer
- Sales representative
- Project manager
- Senior software engineer
7. Collaboration and Teamwork
Teamwork skills in the workplace refer to the ability to collaborate effectively to achieve shared objectives. It involves working well together, combining individual strengths, and supporting each other’s contributions to accomplish tasks. Collaborative teamwork allows you to maximize the diverse skills and perspectives of team members, leading to more creative solutions.
A huge part of working in tech requires collaboration. Being a good team player allows you to work seamlessly with others toward achieving one common goal. In situations where conflicts are present, team players are able to find common ground and resolve the issues efficiently. It also creates a positive work environment with improved pace and higher productivity.
Tech Roles That Require Collaboration and Teamwork Skills
- Software developer
- Game designer
- Product manager
- Sales representative
- Cyber security specialist
8. Time Management
Time management is an essential transferable skill, especially in the age of remote working and flexible schedules. It refers to the ability to prioritize tasks, use time efficiently, and organize work to achieve goals in a timely manner. It involves being disciplined and strategic in managing your time and resources.
Another perk of being efficient with your time is that you’ll face fewer stressful situations at work. For example, prioritizing bigger tasks may help you focus better and deliver the best results in advance of deadlines. If you need help improving your time management skills, you can use apps like Todoist, Memorigi, or Trello to help you track your activities better.
Tech Roles That Require Time Management Skills
- Project manager
- Enterprise architect
- Software developer
- Sales representative
- Technical team leader
9. Attention to Detail
Attention to detail refers to the ability to be thorough and meticulous in your work. It involves being observant and paying attention to every detail so that you can avoid any oversights. Beyond that, it also means maintaining a consistent level of quality in all aspects of your work.
Detail-oriented people make ideal tech employees because they strive to ensure accuracy and precision in every task. This indicates to employers that they will produce high-quality work and reduce the risk of errors. Attention to detail not only contributes to a company’s success but also helps instill confidence in both colleagues and clients.
Tech Roles That Require Attention to Detail
- QA engineer
- Data analyst
- UX researcher
- Computer hardware engineer
- Software developer
10. Leadership and Management
Leadership skills do not only apply to those holding managerial positions. Effective leaders
have great decision-making capabilities, but they also set a positive example, motivate team members, and foster a collaborative work environment. Another leadership skill is taking accountability for your actions, tasks, and outcomes, whether or not they’re positive.
Effective leadership is an important job skill that can improve team morale and performance and drive organizational success. Leaders who possess these skills can foster a sense of purpose and engagement among their team members, leading to higher job satisfaction.
Tech Roles That Require Leadership and Management Skills
- Cyber security specialist
- Chief innovation officer
- Senior software engineer
- Project manager
- Digital marketing manager
How to Identify Your Transferable Skills in 3 Easy Steps
Identifying your transferable skills is a crucial step in recognizing the value you can bring to various roles and industries. By understanding your strengths, you can effectively identify what you can bring to the table, how you can contribute, and why employers should hire you. Below are three steps to help you identify your transferable skills.
Step 1: Do Some Self-Reflection and Inventory Your Skills
Take some time for self-reflection and conduct a comprehensive skill inventory. Consider your previous work experiences, education, hobbies, and personal achievements. Even if they seem irrelevant to the job you’re applying for, start easy and make a list that answers the following questions:
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- What activities do I enjoy doing and what skills do they involve?
- What responsibilities have I held in my previous roles and what job skills were required to excel in those positions?
- What tasks am I great at and what skills come into play there?
- Have I participated in extracurricular activities that developed specific skills?
- What feedback have I received from colleagues or supervisors about my strengths?
Step 2: Analyze Job Descriptions and Industry Requirements
Look at job descriptions and industry requirements for the roles you are interested in pursuing. You can use online job search platforms or look at individual company postings. Analyze multiple job postings for the same role and identify the specific job skills that employers want in those positions. Pay attention to the keywords and see if there is a match for your target job from your existing transferable skills.
Step 3: Connect the Dots and Update Your Resume
Once you have made the connection between your existing skills and the skills sought by target employers, you will need to update your resume. Highlight the transferable skills that align the most with the requirements of the roles you are applying for. Prioritize these skills based on their relevance and importance for your career goals. If you’re still unsure, you can seek feedback from colleagues or career counselors who can help you validate your list of transferable skills.
How to Highlight Transferable Skills on Your Resume
Highlighting transferable skills on your resume is essential for showcasing your versatility, especially if you are a career changer. It can demonstrate how well-suited you are for a new role or industry, regardless of experience. Here are some tips to effectively showcase your job skills:
- Identify transferable skills. Find commonalities between your previous position and the one you’re applying for.
- Analyze the job requirements. Check if you qualify for the role and if it matches your goals and interests.
- Create a skills section. Dedicate a specific section of your resume to highlighting transferable skills with bullet points.
- Highlight relevant projects. Include examples of projects and accomplishments that demonstrate these skills.
- Include a cover letter. Use concise and concrete examples to illustrate how your transferable skills came into play in a previous position.
Leverage Your Transferable Skills to Break Into Tech
Having a strong set of transferable skills can significantly enhance your career opportunities. As the job market continues to evolve, people with versatile job skills are better equipped to adapt to new challenges and succeed in their careers. While technical skills are still needed, these soft skills in tech can help you stay relevant and competitive in the modern workplace.
Note that transferable skills also include qualities like adaptability, emotional intelligence, and leadership, which are highly valuable in any career. By identifying and understanding your transferable skills, you’ll be able to showcase your unique value to potential employers and pursue new opportunities with confidence.
Transferable Skills FAQ
The skills you need to break into tech depend on your career path. The most common skill for IT professionals is coding. However, there are also tech jobs that don’t require coding. Regardless of your path, it can be beneficial to have transferable skills such as digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability. These skills are highly valued by employers across industries.
Technical skills and transferable skills are two distinct types of job skills. Technical skills are hard skills that are required to perform specific technical tasks. An example of this is creating software using Java. Meanwhile, transferable skills are versatile abilities that are not job-specific. Examples include problem-solving and communication skills.
The easiest tech positions to get into for career changers depend on their existing skills, background, and interests. Some tech positions that are relatively accessible to career changers include QA testers, technical writers, UX researchers, and IT help desk specialists. These roles don’t require high-level programming, making them relatively easier to explore.
The time it takes to transition into the tech industry can vary widely depending on your starting point, career goals, and background. Some have successfully transitioned into tech within a few months of completing a coding bootcamp, while others might take up to three years or more to establish themselves in a new tech role.
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