#9 Work for Yourself First - building your transferable skills

Unsurprisingly, this year so far has demonstrated the ever-changing nature of the world of work. Layoffs, the advent of AI in the workplace, and other factors have made many of us think differently about and prioritize personal growth and development. I have always been of the opinion that, when you focus on improving your skills, knowledge, and abilities, you become an asset not just to your current employer but also to any future opportunities that may arise.

A manager’s role typically involves a set of transferable skills that can be applied to various industries, making them relevant in multiple contexts. Regardless of industry, a manager is expected to guide, motivate, and support their teams, manage resources, solve problems, and make critical decisions. Developing and refining these skills can enable you to thrive in any environment:

• Communication

• Leadership

• Problem-solving

• Decision-making

• Adaptability

• Delegation

• Time management

• Emotional Intelligence

The value of industry-specific knowledge should not be overlooked. Having a good understanding of a specific sector can provide you with valuable insight and complement your managerial skills. To excel, it’s therefore crucial to strike a balance between industry-specific expertise and transferable skills. A great way for accomplishing this is continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments.

When you invest in yourself and prioritize your own growth, you’ll not only benefit personally, but you’ll also help your team and organization prosper.