Top Transferable Skills Employers Love (and How to Show Them)

Top Transferable Skills Employers Love (and How to Show Them)

When you’re applying for a new job—especially if you're changing industries, returning to work, or just starting out—it’s easy to feel like you don’t have the “right” experience. But here’s the truth: you probably have more valuable skills than you realize.

These are called transferable skills—abilities you’ve developed in one area of life (like school, previous jobs, parenting, or volunteering) that are useful across many different industries. And employers in Tulare County are actively looking for them.

What Are Transferable Skills?

Transferable skills are soft skills (how you work) and hard skills (what you know) that are valuable no matter the job title. They help you adapt, grow, and succeed in a new work environment—even if it’s totally different from your last one.

Transferable Skills Employers Love 

1. Communication

Whether you’ve worked in retail, helped run a household, or managed community events, being able to express yourself clearly is key. Employers value:

• Writing clear emails or reports

• Listening to customers or coworkers

• Giving presentations or updates

Example for a resume:
“Communicated effectively with a team of 10 to coordinate weekly schedules and customer support tasks.”

2. Problem-Solving

Every workplace encounters challenges—employers want people who think critically and find solutions.

Example for a resume:
“Resolved scheduling conflicts in a busy office setting to improve efficiency by 20%.”

3. Teamwork & Collaboration

From construction to customer service to office support, teamwork is non-negotiable. Show how you work with others toward a common goal.

Example for a resume:
“Collaborated with volunteers to organize a school fundraiser that raised over $1,000.”

4. Time Management

If you've ever juggled school, work, caregiving, or multiple projects at once, you’ve used this skill! Employers look for people who can prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

Example for a resume:
“Managed daily tasks for a household of five while attending online courses and meeting weekly assignment deadlines.”

Other Valuable Transferable Skills Include:

• Adaptability

• Leadership

• Customer Service

• Organization

• Digital Literacy (using email, spreadsheets, or virtual meeting tools)

How to Highlight Transferable Skills

To help your resume stand out:

• Use bullet points that start with strong action verbs like Managed, Coordinated, Led, Created, and Improved

• Include real examples (with numbers, if possible)

• Focus on results and how your work helped others or solved a problem

Pro Tip: Review the job description and match your transferable skills to what they’re asking for. Customize each application!

Not Sure What Your Skills Are? We’ll Help You Find Them.

At Employment Connection, our career coaches can help you:

• Identify your strengths

• Translate life experience into job-ready skills

• Write powerful resume bullet points

• Practice talking about your skills in interviews

Whether you’re in Visalia, Porterville, or anywhere in Tulare County—stop by your nearest center for free support. Let’s show employers the value you bring to the table!