Dr work
Sydney Morning Herald
Saturday June 27, 2009
Q I have been in the navy for 10 years and I'm ready to make a change. What transferable skills could I use and what kinds of positions can I look at?A Transferable skills come in many forms and sources.Knowledge and experience developed through your specific work duties are a source of skills - many transferable to other jobs.At the same time there will be skills relating to your personal development such as discipline, the ability to accept and carry out directions, planning skills, training designed to eliminate errors, etc. You will be the best judge of these skills.The other group of transferable skills will be personal skills. Skills that exist in you and have been enhanced during your time in the navy - such as patience, listening, observing, decision making, teamwork, care, accuracy, reliability, working in pressure situations, etc.Irrespective of working in the navy, or any other occupation, we all have skills that are developed over time and that are readily transferable to many fields.It is impossible for me to tell what new careers to investigate - that is totally up to you.Your first step is to take your time in considering what you bring to a potential new job. Write down all the tangible and intangible qualities, work experiences and knowledge you hold. If you are honest in doing this simple exercise the list will end up bigger than you would expect.This "skills inventory" should then be considered along with your personal interests in deciding where to head career wise. Be creative and think outside the circle.Your thoughts should lead you to researching possible options through talking with others, raising questions, reading, use of the internet, phone calls and making general inquiries about industries, businesses and jobs that capture your attention.For each one of us, the career opportunities really are endless.Q You keep telling people to get into training but what's the point if you can't get a job?A Training, learning and study enhance what is already inside you. You may have it in you to become an outstanding football coach but without the learning (and credibility) that comes with a coaching course you will never get the chance to prove it.Learning isn't just a fancy certificate. Learning is all about discovery, thinking, developing yourself, testing yourself, raising questions, looking for answers, discipline and appreciation of just how good you can be. That is if you're willing to give it a chance.Find something that really interests you and you will discover learning can be great fun as well.In so many ways, learning opens doors and will significantly set you apart from others.Email doctorwork@mycareer.com.au.For more Dr Work advice visit mycareer.com.au/advice.
© 2009 Sydney Morning Herald
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