The Power of Transferable Skills

When it comes to landing your first internship or job, many students worry about not having “enough experience.” But here’s the secret: employers aren’t just looking for technical expertise — they’re looking for transferable skills.

Transferable skills are abilities you can carry with you from one experience to another, no matter the industry. These are the qualities that make you adaptable, valuable, and ready to grow.

Key Transferable Skills Every Mentee Should Highlight

1. Communication
Whether you’re presenting in class, writing an essay, or leading a group project, you’re building the skill employers value most: the ability to share ideas clearly. Strong communication translates across every career path.

2. Teamwork
Group projects, campus clubs, or even part-time jobs all teach you how to collaborate. Employers want people who can listen, contribute, and thrive in a team setting.

3. Adaptability
Life doesn’t always go according to plan — and neither do jobs. The ability to pivot, adjust, and stay steady under change is a strength that stands out.

4. Problem-Solving
From figuring out how to balance a heavy workload to creating solutions in your community, problem-solving shows initiative and resilience — traits every employer needs.

5. Leadership
You don’t need a formal title to lead. Taking responsibility, organizing tasks, and motivating others all showcase your ability to lead with influence.

How to Showcase Transferable Skills

• In Your Resume: Use action verbs and concrete examples (“Led a 5-person team project that improved efficiency by 20%”).
  
  
• In Interviews: Share stories of how you applied these skills in class, on campus, or in your community.
  
  
• In Networking: Talk about your growth, not just your goals. Skills show what you can contribute right now.
  
  

The truth is, transferable skills are your foundation. They don’t just get you in the door — they keep opening new ones throughout your career.

At The Lantern Network, we help mentees recognize and strengthen these skills so they can walk into opportunities with confidence.

Ready to unlock your potential? Apply now and become a mentee today.