Transferable Skills

Clearly and effectively exchange information, ideas, facts, and perspectives with people inside and outside of an organization.

What does it look like?

You have public speaking skills, are able to express ideas to others, engage in active listening, and can write/edit memos, letters, and complex reports clearly and effectively.

Ways to develop this competency:

• Develop and deliver a presentation for a class.
• Check for understanding by asking clarifying questions.
• Proofread online and written communication to avoid errors.

Related action verbs: Advised, Authored, Collaborated, Communicated, Corresponded, Documented,
Informed, Mediated, Negotiated, Presented, Published, Recruited

Build and maintain collaborative relationships to work effectively toward common goals, while appreciating diverse viewpoints and shared responsibilities.

What does it look like?

You are able to work within a team structure by knowing your strengths and building relationships to help negotiate and manage conflict.

Ways to develop this competency:

• Collaborate with others on a class project where responsibility is shared and not divided.
• Handle difficult conversations in person with respect.
• Consider others’ perspectives before making a decision.

Related action verbs: Advised, Collaborated, Coordinated, Enhanced, Facilitated, Negotiated, Participated, Partnered, Recommended, Supported

Recognize and capitalize on personal and team strengths to achieve organizational goals.

What does it look like?
You are able to seek out feedback for positive change, use innovative thinking to explore new options and inspire, motivate and persuade others.

Ways to develop this competency:

• Take on a leadership role in a group or organization.
• Demonstrate initiative at your job/internship by taking on additional responsibilities.
• Motivate team members with a positive attitude and leverage their strengths when delegating work.

Related action verbs: Administered, Chaired, Coached, Created, Delegated, Facilitated, Implemented, Managed, Mentored, Mobilized, Negotiated, Planned, Recommended, Spearheaded, Supervised

Identify and respond to needs based upon an understanding of situational context and logical analysis of relevant information.

What does it look like?
You are able to obtain, interpret, and use knowledge, facts, and data to make decisions and solve problems.

Ways to develop this competency:

• Develop an action plan with specific steps to solve a problem.
• Brainstorm solutions to a problem before bringing it to a supervisor/professor.
• Activate your mind – read, do puzzles, write, etc.

Related action verbs: Analyzed, Developed, Diagnosed, Distinguished, Gathered, Inferred, Reasoned, Resolved, Solved, Synthesized

Knowing work environments differ greatly, understanding and demonstrating effective work habits, and acting in the interest of the larger community and workplace.

What does it look like?
You demonstrate integrity and ethical behavior, act responsibly with the interests of the larger community in mind, and are able to set and meet goals.

Ways to develop this competency:

• Use a planner or calendar to prioritize work/assignments and meet deadlines.
• Reflect on a recent challenge and identify areas of growth and improvement for the future.
• Review your social media through the eyes of a future employer and determine appropriateness.

Related action verbs: Administered, Collaborated, Enlisted, Encouraged, Implemented, Initiated, Influenced, Launched, Led, Managed, Produced, Spearheaded, Supervised

Understand and leverage technologies ethically to enhance efficiencies, complete tasks and accomplish goals.

What does it look like?
You are able to apply skills and knowledge of various industry-specific programs, software, and professional resources to complete work.

Ways to develop this competency:

• Effectively use Excel or a similar spreadsheet application to track data and generate tables and graphs.
• Create a strong LinkedIn profile, join groups of career interest, and ask for recommendations. Connect with alumni through LinkedIn.
• Be comfortable doing internet searches, using commercial databases, and creating and administering surveys.
• Become familiar with the most relevant websites for your career field(s).

Related action verbs: Adapted, Adjusted, Applied, Coded, Converted, Digitized, Installed, Manufactured, Mapped, Modified, Programmed, Processed, Simulated, Upgraded

Proactively develop oneself and one’s career through continual personal and professional learning, awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses, navigation of career opportunities and networking to build relationships within and without one’s organization.

What does it look like?
You are able to show awareness of your own strengths and areas of development, seek opportunities to learn skills and grow, take steps necessary to pursue future plans, and understand how to self-promote in the workplace.

Ways to develop this competency:

• Gain knowledge of job search strategies from start to finish (search strategies, best websites for your field, application, negotiation, accepting the offer, etc.).
• Write a professional resume, customized cover letter, and reference list.
• Implement networking strategies to build an intentional network, including active use of sites like LinkedIn.
• Develop the skills necessary to successfully interview for jobs or internships.

Related action verbs: Accomplished, Achieved, Bolstered, Enriched, Expanded, Improved, Increased, Initiated, Launched, Modified, Revised, Updated