What transferable skills do you need to develop as a leader?

The best leaders never stop learning. If you’re in a leadership position, it’s important to continue developing your transferable skills. Transferable skills can help you keep, and improve upon, your leadership style. They can also make you a stronger leader no matter your career.

But what are transferable skills? And how can they help you succeed?

Keep reading to find out.

What are transferable skills?

Transferable skills are a core set of skills and abilities, which can be applied to a wide range of different jobs and industries. They can be learned from previous positions, volunteer work, hobbies, or even from daily life. You’ve probably learned more transferable skills than you realise!

Transferable skills are valuable because they can be applied to a range of different jobs and industries. Some transferable skills may be quite technical in nature, such as knowledge of a specific software. Other transferable skills can be more generic, for example, basic computer literacy.

Transferable skills vs Technical skills

The main difference between transferable skills and technical skills, is that technical skills tend to be more job or industry specific. You might acquire technical skills through specific schooling or courses, or even from a previous job. These technical skills, though valuable, might only be useful in one or two industries.

Transferable skills can be used in almost any job or industry. They are not specific to any particular job or context, which is why they are so useful. These skills, such as, effective communication and team building, are universally sought after by employers.

You might get hired for your technical skills, but if you lack transferable skills, you probably won’t be getting that promotion!

Four transferable skills that you should develop to become a more successful leader

Taking initiative

The best leaders don’t wait around for someone to take action. They do it themselves. Taking initiative shows your superiors, and employees, that you’re pushing your team forward to success. It also demonstrates your commitment and passion for your role.

Take initiative by setting clear goals and objectives for your team. Encourage employee collaboration and creative a problem-solving environment.  Make sure you lead by example and set a clear path for your team to follow.

Communication

Communication skills are vital for anyone in a leadership position. If you’re a poor communicator, you won’t be able to effectively lead a team. But don’t worry. Good communication is a skill that can be improved upon. If you feel your communication skills are lacking, you may want to develop them by

Listening and not interrupting

Keeping note of your tone of voice

Asking questions

Public speaking

Asking for feedback

Positive Attitude

There will be times in your career where you and your team will experience stress and pressures from deadlines and expectations. Having the ability to maintain a positive attitude is one of the most important transferable leadership skills. Effective leaders stay positive during difficult times as it boosts employee morale and productivity.

Negotiation

Effective negotiation is central to leadership. Good negotiations help you build better relationships and can contribute to business success. They can also help reduce workplace conflicts and boost your team’s productivity.

A good leader is also an advocate for their team members, and this is where those negotiation skills can really help. Whether it’s negotiating a better wage for your team members, or solving interpersonal problems between team members, negotiation plays in important role in achieving long term success.

The business world is always in need of fresh entrepreneurial minds and qualified, inspiring leaders. If you’ve ever thought that you could be an outstanding business leader, why not check out our Leadership & Business Management Courses Online?