Employability
As well as skills specific to the job you’re going for, employers are also looking for general job skills. These are sometimes called ‘employability skills’ or ‘transferrable skills’.
Employers are looking for people who are dependable, easy to get along with and open to learning. A lack of direct relevant experience may not prevent you from getting a job if you have transferrable skills.
Transferrable skills are those developed throughout your life, at school or university, at home and in your social life, as well as through any experience in the work-place. It’s good to highlight these skills in your CV, cover letter and when preparing for a job interview.
Transferable Skills include:
Communication Show how you communicate information and ideas clearly and effectively in a variety of situations. Communication takes many forms – verbal, written. It also includes listening skills – being able to listen effectively and clarify understanding is a key skill.
Team Work The ability to work with others is vital and will help reassure employers that you will ‘fit in’ and offer a valuable contribution. Think about examples of when you have worked well with others in formal or informal groups to achieve results.
Organisation/Time Management Think of examples where you have had to prioritise certain things to meet deadlines.
Self Management Being able to manage work independently is as important as working in a team. Demonstrate where you have taken initiative and been proactive.
IT Skills Any experience you have of using IT is a valuable skill as it shows employers you are able to use technology
Willingness to Learn Show that you’re happy to learn new things - both for your job and for your personal development. Any learning you have taken independently can show you enjoy new challenges and embrace fresh ideas.
Further information
Getting a Promotion Tips
Network and make yourself visible. The more connected and engaged you are with your colleagues, the more you'll stand out
Do a great job. Establish performance objectives with your supervisor and ensure you meet them. If your supervisor doesn’t work this way, set yourself goals and share them. Try and ensure your objectives are well-aligned with departmental priorities.
Be a team player. Volunteer to help with new projects. Serve on committees. Offer to help your manager and colleagues whenever time permits
Be punctual with good attendance.
Professional development. Take up development opportunities as they arise. Be self aware – draft your own development plan and actively pursue and create opportunities you need.
Be prepared to ask. Talk with your boss about opportunities for promotion within the organisation.
Don't assume you'll get the job. As an internal candidate you may have an advantage but ensure you approach internal opportunities in the same way you would for an outside company.
Be Adaptable. Change is inevitable. Be the person who embraces change and looks for opportunities.