What are transferable skills?

Transferable skills are abilities and competencies that can be applied across a range of jobs and industries. These skills are not limited to a specific role or sector but are developed through various experiences, such as work, volunteering, hobbies, or education. Examples of transferable skills include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.

The importance of transferable skills lies in their versatility; they allow individuals to adapt to different job environments and roles, making them valuable assets in career development and job mobility. For instance, a person who has developed strong communication skills in one job can utilize those same skills in a different job or industry, enhancing their employability and effectiveness.

In contrast, skills that are unique to one specific job limit a person's ability to move between different positions or industries. Skills confined to academic settings do not translate to the broader work environment, and skills that are deemed not applicable in the workplace lack relevance in professional scenarios. Therefore, the accurate definition of transferable skills encompasses the broad applicability gained through diverse experiences, highlighting their significance in career planning and progression.