If there’s ever a time to jump into a new career in tech, it’s now. Not only is the industry’s job market hotter than ever, but employers are also raising starting salaries and even adding new remote hires in droves to offset the demand. But how do you get into tech, especially if you don’t have any previous experience? Believe it or not, you probably already have plenty of transferable skills that have primed you for success.
What Are Transferable Skills?
Transferable job skills are strengths you have that can be used across any career path or role. These can either be soft skills (social skills that are not easily picked up) or technical skills (skills gained through training or experience). Here are five examples that will be valuable in your transition into tech.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
These two skills go hand in hand since critical thinking informs your ability to problem solve. Critical thinking involves analyzing data or situations and being able to draw objective conclusions from that information. Problem solving means taking those conclusions and applying them to create a better outcome for the issue at hand. In tech, this might look like identifying an issue with a computer and working towards a solution to resolve the problem.
Adaptability
The nature of the tech industry revolves heavily around change. Between emerging technology and updating from old to new processes, it’s a fast-paced environment that is constantly evolving. Quickly navigating and adjusting to change is a vital skill that employers in the tech space will be looking for.
Interpersonal Skills
Interpersonal skills encompass a lot of everyday abilities. Verbal and written communication, mindful listening and collaboration are key elements that matter, especially in the tech industry. When you’re crafting reports, giving directions or working with team members, you’ll need to be able to clearly communicate and establish strong working relationships with your peers.
Research
Most tech jobs require some degree of research. That might involve reviewing data, studying new product advancements and anything in between. Knowing how to find the information you’re looking for and apply that knowledge to the task at hand can give you the edge over others career changers.
Computer Literacy
You don’t know how to write code or build a computer system from scratch to have computer literacy. This just means that you have familiarity with using a computer and understanding how some basic systems operate. If you know how to type and have experience with Microsoft Office or GSuite products you have transferable computer literacy skills.
How to Identify Transferable Skills
One of the best ways to figure out what your transferable skills are is to complete a self-analysis worksheet. Set some time aside to really think about what you’ve learned throughout your schooling and workplace environments. What have teachers, employers and other leaders in your life given you praise for? What areas do you think you could improve on? A self-analysis puts all of your experiences into one organized, easy-to-understand asset.
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