Page 79 - Marky Stein - Fearless Career Change_ The Fast Track to Success in a New Field (2004)

Eight Fast-Track Strategies for Successful Career Changers

financial planner. Both fields demand some degree of mathemati-
cal talent and experience. The talent of analysis could be used in
different contexts by a software programmer, doctor, businessper-
son, or sound engineer.

A multitude of talents are transferable. You
might possess several of them without even
knowing it. For example, are you a good
listener and also good at solving complex
problems? These are both talents that
can be used in many jobs.

Which of Your Skills Might Transfer to Your Dream
Career?
Go back to the list entitled “transferable skills,” which you com-
pleted in the last chapter. Carefully consider how your top six skills
might transfer into abilities you might be able to use in your ideal
career. Then, take a look at some of the other skills on the list. Do
any of them apply to the career you’re headed for?
Don’t take anything for granted. You might overlook skills like
reading, writing, listening, or empathizing, but, after all, people
actually do get paid to do just those things that, at first glance, seem
very ordinary.

Your transferable skills do not just come from
your work life.

Is your sock drawer so neat (even color coded) that some peo-
ple, if they had access to your sock drawer, might think you’re just
a little bit “nuts”? It’s likely that your skill of being organized could
carry over into your authentic calling.
Are you always the friend who offers a shoulder to cry on? Your
dream career may utilize these skills: listening, building rapport,
empathizing, nurturing, or even giving advice.

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