Translate Your Skills
Ask a group of people, and many will say they started their careers in retail. Do you know how the skills you’re building today can help you build a real future in retail or in other lines of work? Let’s take a look.
Hard Skills Vs. Soft Skills
There are different types of job skills. Employers often talk about “hard” and “soft” skills. So what’s the difference?
Hard Skills
Examples of hard skills include knowing a computer program, inventory software, or cash register; knowing about products and workplace policies; and having advanced skills in math, reading, and writing.
Soft Skills
Soft skills are characteristics or abilities that are a little harder to pinpoint but may make you the ideal employee for certain jobs. They are sometimes thought of as “people skills.”
Many hard and soft skills are easily mastered in retail and desired by employers in other lines of work.
Growing basic skills into advanced skills
Use the tool below to see how your basic skills translate and grow into mid-level and advanced skills.
Skill-Level Translator
The * shows examples of hard skills. Most are soft skills.
Translating Retail Skills to Other Careers
Now let’s look at just of few of the other jobs and careers outside of retail where those same skills you’re developing might also fit. Check out some of the skills associated with them:
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Entrepreneurship
starting your own business
Communication,
Interpersonal,
Leadership,
Multi-Tasking -
Financial Services
bank teller, insurance agent, loan officer
Communication,
Customer Service,
Professionalism,
Strong Math Skills -
Healthcare
home healthcare aide, nurse, pharmacy tech
Communication,
Interpersonal,
Multi-Tasking,
Problem Solving -
Hospitality
caterer, event planner, hotel concierge
Communication,
Computer Skills,
Customer Service,
Interpersonal -
Office Work
executive assistant, human resources, office manager, receptionist
Communication,
Computer Skills,
Detail-Oriented,
Time Management -
Sales
in store and online, from automotive to real estate
Customer Service,
Interpersonal,
Motivation,
Professionalism -
Social Services
social and human service assistant, social worker
Advocacy,
Communication,
Interpersonal,
Problem Solving
Retail gives you a chance to practice communication, customer service, and sales skills that are essential in many fields. In fact, almost 70% of recruiters in all industries say communication is the most important skill. Take a look at how many of the jobs listed above require someone who can communicate with people. Retail work prepares you for that!
Ready to see how you can apply your own skills to a job or career that you’d like to try? Then you’re ready to pick your path!