5 ways to future-proof your job

If MBAs were the career enhancer of the '80s and '90s, transferable skills are a must today

- ROXANNE CALDER

This is the year for the job seeker. With global record low unemployment rates and the dearth supply of talent, never have your transferable skills been so highly coveted. No matter the economic climate, they remain your golden ticket, even in a world possessed by artificial intelligence and Chat GPT.

Future-proof skills are those talents and attributes that are portable to different jobs, industries and even careers. Opportunity has been aplenty for anyone with the desire to change jobs, seek promotions or even embark on a new career.

But what of the R-word that is top of mind for many people? A recession? Even more reason to ensure your future by harnessing your transferable skills.

As the managing director of a recruitment agency, I have worked through many economic cycles and know what it takes to be employable.

Here are my top five transferable skills to acquire, muster and master:

1 Interpersonal skills 

How well do you relate to people? Your interpersonal skills influence how others feel about you and respond to you in return. Employers love hiring people with this gift because building relationships improves the working environment and a manager's life.

People with great interpersonal skills are patient, listen intently, collaborate and know when to push and when to hold back. They are flexible and understand well their impact on others. Their self-awareness is on point. Superior interpersonal skills are relied upon in all jobs, levels, industries and teams.

2 Communication