Transferable skills are skills gained from life experiences that can benefit an employer, rather than just skills specific to one's major or field of study. Employers value soft skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and planning/organization abilities gained from activities like internships, volunteering, study abroad programs, more than grades or academic credentials. The top transferable skills identified include verbal communication, teamwork, decision-making, planning and prioritization, information processing, data analysis, technical knowledge, computer proficiency, writing abilities, and sales/influence skills.

1. What are transferable skills and
why are they important
Skills that you gain from ALL of your life experiences
(Governor’s Summer Internship Program, Eagle
Scout project, study abroad, etc.) that could be of
benefit to your employer.
Employers value your soft skills, strengths, &
competencies more than your major of your grades.

2. What do you think the top
transferable skills are?

3. Top transferable skills
Ability to verbally communicate with persons inside
and outside the organization.
Ability to work in a team structure
Ability to make decisions and solve problems
Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work
Ability to obtain and process information

4. Top transferable skills continued
Ability to analyze quantitative data.
Technical knowledge related to the job.
Proficiency with computer software programs.
Ability to create and/or edit written reports.
Ability to sell or influence others.
Source: Job outlook 2013, National Association of Colleges & Employers