"This book has become more than just another book on my bookshelf, it has become a much needed friend during a major life change." -Jessica
Read More Testimonials»

Our Losing Your Job Experts

Richard Nelson Bolles

Richard Nelson Bolles

Renowned author of the What Color Is Your Parachute? Series

Shared by First30Days View Profile»
Bradley Richardson

Bradley Richardson

Business author, professional speaker and career development...

Shared by First30Days View Profile»
Tanya Flynn

Tanya Flynn

Communications manager at Careerbuilder.com

Shared by First30Days View Profile»

Meet all of our Career Experts»

Got a Question?

Q&A

If you have questions about this change, you're in the right place. Our editors, experts, and community of change optimists have answers!

jtmjr51

Question:How do you determine transferable skills across industries ?

I was laid off over 1 year ago, after 35 years of continous employment in the computer field. I have been unsucessful at finding a new position as most of the high tech jobs in my speciality have been outsourced to China and India. I continue to look for new positions in my field but being 57 with 35+ years of experience is working aginst me. I admit I was somewhat burned out and would love to explore other avenues but I just can't seem to find other fields to which my skills transfer and where I can make a good living let alone find employeers who will entertain hiring someone with no direct experience.

Asked by jtmjr51 on 1/1/09 2 Answers»
dawnbell

Answer:

Some of my best jobs and new skills sharpened were doing consulting work. At times I even took a pay cut on the condition that the work was on a "term" basis just to keep myself busy.

Answered by: dawnbell on 2/14/09
PhoenixBalto

Answer:

Some of your transferable skills: project management, communication skills both oral and written (reports); customer relations or interpersonal skills; teamplayer; analytical skills; organization, etc. In addition to these your computer software knowledge. Did you have to train others? etc.

Answered by: PhoenixBalto on 1/16/09
Got an Answer?