The Career Fit Test™ is a comprehensive tool that includes three essential assessments—a career test, a career aptitude assessment, and a personality quiz. Combined with the Career Fit Test™ Premium Report, these assessments will help you discover your strengths, find your best career fit, and live your calling by engaging in work you love. The Premium report produces a personalized CFT Skills Map™, displaying your top transferable, personal, and content skills.
In this article, we will focus on transferable skills. Your transferable skills are abilities and competencies you can apply across various jobs, industries, and roles. These skills are not specific to a single occupation or field but are valuable in many different work environments. Because they are versatile, transferable skills are beneficial when changing careers or industries, as they can help you adapt to new job requirements and demonstrate your value to potential employers.
Benefits of Knowing Your Transferable Skills
To enjoy your work, it is vital to use your top ten most enjoyable transferable skills. When you emphasize using these skills during most of your work hours, you will be engaged and motivated.
Knowing your top transferable skills is also important for writing a resume that convinces an employer to invite you for an interview. During interviews, you can also use your transferable skills to prove to an employer that you can meet their needs. Here are three transferable skill statements, with quantified results, that could be used in a resume and during a job interview to answer questions more effectively:
–Analyzed complex technical issues in medical equipment using advanced diagnostic tools, identifying faults and performance deviations with 98% accuracy, ensuring compliance with industry standards and improving equipment efficiency by 25%.
–Diagnosed and resolved malfunctions in sophisticated medical devices, reducing equipment downtime by 40% through timely repairs, which ensured continuous patient care and maintained 100% operational readiness.
–Repaired a wide range of medical equipment, including imaging devices and life-support systems, implementing corrective actions that extended equipment lifespan by 30% and reduced operational costs by 20%.
As you can see, the four transferable skills, “analyzed,” “diagnosed,” “resolved,” and “repaired,” are bolded. Your top ten transferable skills help you to identify the best career path, make career decisions, set goals, write resumes, and interview successfully.
Transferable Skills and Developmental Steps
This article will explore how you can develop your top transferable skills as identified by our unique career test. Below, we have identified 60 transferable skills included in the career test. You can determine your top ten transferable skills and the careers that would best use those skills by completing the Free Career Fit Test™ and upgrading to the CFT Premium Report.
Let’s explore practical strategies for enhancing transferable skills in your vocation and advocational pursuits. For each transferable skill, identify whether it is one of your top ten most enjoyed skills. Also, identify your level for that skill and the next steps for developing and using each skill.
1. Construct/Build
- Beginner: Learn the basics of construction materials and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice simple construction tasks like assembling small structures or models.
- Advanced: Work on larger, more complex projects involving multiple materials and tools.
2. Cook/Prepare Food
- Beginner: Start with basic cooking techniques and simple recipes.
- Intermediate: Experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods to enhance taste and nutrition.
- Advanced: Plan and prepare multi-course meals or specialize in a specific cuisine.
3. Drive/Fly
- Beginner: Obtain a driver’s license or start flight training; learn the rules of the road or air.
- Intermediate: Gain experience by driving or flying in various conditions; practice specific maneuvers.
- Advanced: Earn advanced certifications (e.g., commercial license) and handle complex driving or flying tasks.
4. Install
- Beginner: Understand the instructions and tools required for basic installation tasks.
- Intermediate: Practice installing devices or machinery in different environments.
- Advanced: Handle complex installations, including troubleshooting and optimizing performance.
5. Operate Equipment
- Beginner: Learn how to safely use basic tools and equipment.
- Intermediate: Gain experience with more specialized machinery and understand its operation and maintenance.
- Advanced: Master the operation of advanced equipment, including troubleshooting and optimizing its use.
6. Patrol/Enforce
- Beginner: Learn the basics of security or law enforcement procedures.
- Intermediate: Gain experience in patrolling and enforcing rules in various settings.
- Advanced: Handle complex enforcement situations, including conflict resolution and emergency response.
7. Perform Physically or Athletically
- Beginner: Start with basic physical training or sports practice.
- Intermediate: Improve skills through regular practice, focusing on technique and endurance.
- Advanced: Compete or perform at a high level, focusing on specialized training and strategies.
8. Plant/Cultivate
- Beginner: Learn the basics of gardening or agriculture, including soil preparation and planting.
- Intermediate: Practice maintaining and nurturing plants through different growth stages.
- Advanced: Manage large-scale cultivation projects, including crop rotation, pest control, and harvesting.
9. Repair/Service
- Beginner: Learn the basics of diagnosing and fixing simple mechanical issues.
- Intermediate: Practice repairing various objects, gaining experience with different tools and techniques.
- Advanced: Handle complex repairs and servicing tasks, including preventive maintenance.
10. Tend/Care for Animals
- Beginner: Learn the basics of animal care, including feeding, grooming, and basic health checks.
- Intermediate: Gain experience with different types of animals, understanding their specific needs.
- Advanced: Handle complex animal care tasks, including training, medical care, and breeding.
11. Analyze/Evaluate/Diagnose
- Beginner: Learn to gather and assess basic data or situations.
- Intermediate: Practice analyzing more complex data sets or situations, developing critical thinking skills.
- Advanced: Handle high-level evaluations, diagnoses, and decision-making in complex scenarios.
12. Check for Quality
- Beginner: Learn the standards and criteria for quality in a specific field.
- Intermediate: Practice inspecting and assessing quality in various objects or processes.
- Advanced: Handle complex quality control tasks, including implementing and improving quality assurance systems.
13. Conduct Experiments
- Beginner: Learn the basics of scientific method and experimental design.
- Intermediate: Conduct simple experiments, focusing on accurate data collection and analysis.
- Advanced: Design and execute complex experiments, including hypothesis testing and result interpretation.
14. Estimate
- Beginner: Learn the basics of estimation techniques in relevant contexts (e.g., costs, resources).
- Intermediate: Practice making accurate estimates in various scenarios and refining methods.
- Advanced: Handle complex estimation tasks, including budgeting and resource allocation for large projects.
15. Forecast/Predict
- Beginner: Learn the basics of forecasting methods and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice forecasting in different contexts, refining accuracy through data analysis.
- Advanced: Handle complex forecasting tasks, including trend analysis and risk management.
16. Research/Compile Data
- Beginner: Learn the basics of research methods and data collection.
- Intermediate: Practice conducting research and compiling data in various fields, focusing on accuracy and relevance.
- Advanced: Handle complex research projects, including data analysis, interpretation, and reporting.
17. Solve Problems/Troubleshoot
- Beginner: Learn basic problem-solving techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice troubleshooting in different scenarios and developing creative solutions.
- Advanced: Handle complex problem-solving tasks, including root cause analysis and implementation of long-term solutions.
18. Test
- Beginner: Learn basic testing procedures and standards.
- Intermediate: Practice conducting tests in different contexts, focusing on accuracy and reliability.
- Advanced: Handle complex testing tasks, including designing and implementing new testing methods.
19. Use Math Formulas
- Beginner: Learn the basics of relevant mathematical formulas and their applications.
- Intermediate: Practice using formulas in various contexts, improving accuracy and efficiency.
- Advanced: Handle complex mathematical tasks, including advanced calculations and modeling.
20. Write/Fix Computer Programs
- Beginner: Learn the basics of programming languages and coding principles.
- Intermediate: Practice writing and debugging code in different contexts, focusing on efficiency and functionality.
- Advanced: Handle complex programming tasks, including developing large-scale applications and optimizing performance.
21. Act/Perform
- Beginner: Learn basic acting or performance techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice performing in front of small audiences, improving delivery and stage presence.
- Advanced: Handle complex performance tasks, including leading roles or performing in front of large audiences.
22. Compose Music
- Beginner: Learn the basics of music theory and composition techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice composing simple pieces and experimenting with different styles and instruments.
- Advanced: Handle complex composition tasks, including creating full arrangements or scoring for various ensembles.
23. Design/Create
- Beginner: Learn basic design principles and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice designing and creating in various contexts, focusing on aesthetics and functionality.
- Advanced: Handle complex design tasks, including creating innovative solutions and leading design projects.
24. Draw/Illustrate
- Beginner: Learn basic drawing and illustration techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice creating more detailed and complex illustrations, focusing on style and accuracy.
- Advanced: Handle complex illustration tasks, including creating professional-level work and developing a personal style.
25. Improve/Modify
- Beginner: Learn the basics of identifying areas for improvement and making modifications.
- Intermediate: Practice improving and modifying processes, products, or systems in various contexts.
- Advanced: Handle complex improvement tasks, including implementing continuous improvement strategies.
26. Sing/Play Musical Instrument
- Beginner: Learn the basics of vocal or instrumental technique.
- Intermediate: Practice performing more complex pieces, focusing on expression and accuracy.
- Advanced: Handle complex performance tasks, including leading ensembles or performing professionally.
27. Synthesize
- Beginner: Learn the basics of synthesizing information or elements.
- Intermediate: Practice integrating diverse elements into cohesive outcomes in various contexts.
- Advanced: Handle complex synthesis tasks, including developing innovative solutions or products.
28. Take Photos or Videos
- Beginner: Learn basic photography or videography techniques and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice taking photos or videos in different contexts, focusing on composition and quality.
- Advanced: Handle complex tasks, including professional-level work and advanced editing.
29. Translate/Interpret Languages
- Beginner: Learn the basics of a second language and translation principles.
- Intermediate: Practice translating or interpreting in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and cultural nuances.
- Advanced: Handle complex translation or interpretation tasks, including specialized fields or simultaneous interpretation.
30. Write
- Beginner: Learn basic writing techniques and styles.
- Intermediate: Practice writing in various formats, focusing on clarity and effectiveness.
- Advanced: Handle complex writing tasks, including professional or creative projects, and develop a unique voice.
31. Coach/Mentor
- Beginner: Learn the basics of coaching or mentoring techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice coaching or mentoring in various contexts, focusing on communication and goal setting.
- Advanced: Handle complex coaching or mentoring tasks, including developing personalized strategies and supporting long-term growth.
32. Collaborate/Cooperate
- Beginner: Learn the basics of teamwork and collaboration.
- Intermediate: Practice working with others in various contexts, focusing on communication and cooperation.
- Advanced: Handle complex collaboration tasks, including leading teams and managing group dynamics.
33. Counsel/Advise
- Beginner: Learn the basics of counseling or advising techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice counseling or advising in various contexts, focusing on active listening and problem-solving.
- Advanced: Handle complex counseling or advising tasks, including specialized areas and long-term support.
34. Encourage/Motivate
- Beginner: Learn the basics of motivational techniques and positive reinforcement.
- Intermediate: Practice encouraging and motivating others in various contexts, focusing on building confidence.
- Advanced: Handle complex motivational tasks, including leading initiatives and inspiring large groups.
35. Facilitate/Lead Groups
- Beginner: Learn the basics of group facilitation and leadership.
- Intermediate: Practice leading groups in various contexts, focusing on communication and group dynamics.
- Advanced: Handle complex group leadership tasks, including managing large teams and achieving strategic objectives.
36. Host/Offer Hospitality
- Beginner: Learn the basics of hosting and providing hospitality.
- Intermediate: Practice offering hospitality in various contexts, focusing on creating a welcoming environment.
- Advanced: Handle complex hospitality tasks, including managing events or high-profile guests.
37. Provide Medical Care
- Beginner: Learn basic first aid and medical care techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice providing medical care in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and patient comfort.
- Advanced: Handle complex medical care tasks, including specialized treatments and emergency response.
38. Refer to Resources
- Beginner: Learn the basics of identifying and using resources.
- Intermediate: Practice referring others to resources in various contexts, focusing on relevance and accessibility.
- Advanced: Handle complex resource referral tasks, including developing resource networks and strategic referrals.
39. Speak
- Beginner: Learn basic public speaking techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice speaking in front of small groups, focusing on clarity and confidence.
- Advanced: Handle complex speaking tasks, including delivering speeches to large audiences or in high-stakes situations.
40. Teach/Train
- Beginner: Learn the basics of teaching or training techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice teaching or training in various contexts, focusing on clarity and engagement.
- Advanced: Handle complex teaching or training tasks, including curriculum development and large-group instruction.
41. Consult
- Beginner: Learn the basics of consulting techniques and problem-solving.
- Intermediate: Practice consulting in various contexts, providing relevant advice and recommendations.
- Advanced: Handle complex consulting tasks, including leading projects and implementing strategic solutions.
42. Influence/Persuade/Convince
- Beginner: Learn the basics of persuasive communication techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice influencing and persuading others in various contexts, focusing on building rapport and credibility.
- Advanced: Handle complex persuasion tasks, including leading negotiations or changing opinions on a large scale.
43. Initiate/Launch/Pioneer
- Beginner: Learn the basics of initiating and launching projects or ventures.
- Intermediate: Practice starting new initiatives in various contexts, focusing on planning and execution.
- Advanced: Handle complex pioneering tasks, including leading innovation and driving change.
44. Manage Money
- Beginner: Learn the basics of budgeting and financial management.
- Intermediate: Practice managing money in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and strategic planning.
- Advanced: Handle complex financial management tasks, including investment strategies and financial forecasting.
45. Mediate/Act as a Liaison
- Beginner: Learn the basics of mediation and liaison techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice mediating conflicts and acting as a liaison in various contexts, focusing on communication and negotiation.
- Advanced: Handle complex mediation tasks, including resolving high-stakes conflicts and building long-term relationships.
46. Negotiate
- Beginner: Learn the basics of negotiation techniques and strategies.
- Intermediate: Practice negotiating in various contexts, focusing on achieving mutually beneficial outcomes.
- Advanced: Handle complex negotiation tasks, including high-stakes deals and long-term agreements.
47. Plan
- Beginner: Learn the basics of planning techniques and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice planning in various contexts, focusing on setting clear goals and timelines.
- Advanced: Handle complex planning tasks, including strategic planning and large-scale project management.
48. Represent
- Beginner: Learn the basics of representing others in various contexts.
- Intermediate: Practice representing individuals or organizations in various situations, focusing on communication and professionalism.
- Advanced: Handle complex representation tasks, including acting as a spokesperson or ambassador.
49. Sell/Promote
- Beginner: Learn the basics of sales techniques and promotion strategies.
- Intermediate: Practice selling and promoting products, services, or ideas in various contexts, focusing on building relationships.
- Advanced: Handle complex sales and promotion tasks, including leading sales teams and developing marketing strategies.
50. Supervise/Manage
- Beginner: Learn the basics of supervision and management techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice supervising and managing others in various contexts, focusing on communication and delegation.
- Advanced: Handle complex management tasks, including leading large teams and achieving organizational goals.
51. Budget
- Beginner: Learn the basics of budgeting techniques and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice creating and managing budgets in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and resource allocation.
- Advanced: Handle complex budgeting tasks, including long-term financial planning and cost management.
52. Calculate/Compute
- Beginner: Learn the basics of calculation and computation techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice calculating and computing in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and efficiency.
- Advanced: Handle complex calculation tasks, including advanced mathematical modeling and analysis.
53. Categorize/Classify
- Beginner: Learn the basics of categorization and classification techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice categorizing and classifying information or objects in various contexts, focusing on efficiency and organization.
- Advanced: Handle complex categorization tasks, including developing classification systems and organizing large data sets.
54. Coordinate/Make Arrangements
- Beginner: Learn the basics of coordination and logistical planning.
- Intermediate: Practice coordinating and making arrangements in various contexts, focusing on attention to detail and communication.
- Advanced: Handle complex coordination tasks, including managing large events or projects with multiple stakeholders.
55. Maintain/Manage Records
- Beginner: Learn the basics of record-keeping techniques and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice maintaining and managing records in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and organization.
- Advanced: Handle complex record management tasks, including implementing record-keeping systems and ensuring compliance with regulations.
56. Organize
- Beginner: Learn the basics of organization techniques and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice organizing in various contexts, focusing on improving efficiency and effectiveness.
- Advanced: Handle complex organizational tasks, including leading change and implementing new systems.
57. Proofread/Edit
- Beginner: Learn the basics of proofreading and editing techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice proofreading and editing in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and clarity.
- Advanced: Handle complex proofreading and editing tasks, including editing for style and tone in professional or creative writing.
58. Schedule
- Beginner: Learn the basics of scheduling techniques and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice creating and managing schedules in various contexts, focusing on time management and prioritization.
- Advanced: Handle complex scheduling tasks, including managing large-scale projects or coordinating multiple schedules.
59. Verify Accuracy
- Beginner: Learn the basics of accuracy verification techniques.
- Intermediate: Practice verifying accuracy in various contexts, focusing on attention to detail and thoroughness.
- Advanced: Handle complex accuracy verification tasks, including auditing and quality control.
60. Work with Financial Data
- Beginner: Learn the basics of financial data management techniques and tools.
- Intermediate: Practice working with financial data in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and analysis.
- Advanced: Handle complex financial data tasks, including financial forecasting and reporting.
Set Goals for Your Top Transferable Skills
Focus on developing your top ten transferable skills. Set manageable goals from the suggestions above. Here are two example goals for leveraging the transferable skill of “Work with Financial Data” to become a bookkeeper:
- Obtain Certification: Complete a recognized bookkeeping certification program within the next 12 months, gaining the necessary skills to manage financial records accurately, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll.
- Master Accounting Software: Gain proficiency in industry-standard accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks or Xero) within the next six months, enabling efficient data entry, reconciliation, and reporting to support accurate bookkeeping for small businesses or clients.
Conclusion
Developing your top ten transferable skills is a powerful way to advance your career, no matter your industry or role. By taking a career test like the one offered by CareerFitTest.com, you can identify your strengths and areas for growth. With focused effort and the strategies outlined above, you can hone these skills, making yourself a more versatile and valuable professional.
By focusing on developing your top ten transferable skills through goal setting, you can increase your career flexibility, enhance your employability, and make significant strides in your professional journey. Each skill you hone broadens your career options and prepares you to adapt to changes in the job market. Embrace these strategies, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving lasting career success. Get started today with the Career Fit Test™.