Transferable skills, a common term in the world of modern job hunting, are best described as proficiencies you can carry from one job to another. Think of them as your professional superpowers—they go wherever you go and make you shine in any job! These include general skills that every employer appreciates, and can come from anywhere: your job, school, internships, or even life experiences. 

If you're considering shifting jobs soon, you should ensure you have sufficiently honed these essential skills, so you stand out as a strong candidate in today's competitive job market.

Communication

Strong communication is often at the top of every employer's wish list. In a world where AI is doing more and more, the ability to connect with people—whether coworkers, clients, or your boss—is irreplaceable. Forbes puts it perfectly in a 2023 article about transferable skills: "Small talk will win you jobs." Whether you're chatting at a professional event or presenting an idea to your team, having polished communication skills makes all the difference.

Teamwork

Teamwork is a cornerstone of success in any workplace. It's more than just working with others—it's about understanding different perspectives, contributing to shared goals, and supporting your colleagues when they need it. As highlighted by a 2024 article from the global career platform Indeed, successful teamwork encompasses empathy, active listening, and clear communication - many of the other skills in this list.  Showing a potential employer that you're easy to work with and can handle group dynamics, especially in leadership positions, will instantly make you a stronger candidate.

Adaptability

Adaptability is your ability to handle change and thrive in new situations—an absolute must in today's fast-paced world. It's not just about being flexible; it's about showing how you've tackled unexpected challenges and still delivered results. Employers want people who can think on their feet, pick up new skills quickly, and thrive in ever-changing environments.

Creative thinking

Creative thinking has become essential in the modern job market, especially in an era where AI is constantly attempting to match human creativity. This humane skill is all about coming up with fresh ideas and finding unique solutions to problems. In a 2023 interview, Apple CEO Tim Cook stated that creativity is one of the key traits he looks for in employees, emphasising that Apple wants people who can "see around the corner". If you can think outside the box, you'll always bring value to any team - explained the tech giant leader.

Empathy

Empathy, or emotional intelligence, is the ability to connect with others on a humane level. While often overlooked, this unique skill can make a huge difference in how you build relationships at work. As per Indeed's article on transferable skills, empathy fosters a positive environment, improves collaboration, and helps with managing client relationships. Also, unlike hard skills, empathy is something AI can't replicate, which makes it an increasingly important quality in today's workplaces.