When it comes to securing your next career move, it’s easy to underestimate the skills you already have.
We tend to box ourselves in: “I’ve only worked in this field, so that’s all I can do.”
The truth? You’ve built a toolbox of transferable skills – abilities that are valuable across many industries, and that’s what regional employers are crying out for!
When you can start to name these skills and are able to give examples, and connect them to a prospective employer’s needs, you turn your cover letter from a formality into a career-changing first impression.
Step 1: Spot Your Transferable Skills – a local example:
After high school, Crystal (above left photo) tried a few different jobs. She was smart, creative, and looking for a challenge. Nursing became her focus after realising she wanted a career centred on helping people and she completed her degree at the University of Wollongong’s Shoalhaven Campus.
From there, she worked in hospitals and aged care. However, when COVID hit, this presented new challenges and new opportunities. Her husband Glenn, a real estate agent, began working from home and he was busier than ever as the mass exodus from Sydney to the South Coast began.
Crystal offered to help him out initially, but it quickly became more permanent. The two of them were an unstoppable team. Glenn had decades of experience and Crystal brought a strong process driven background:
The skills that moved with her
Crystal didn’t start from scratch in real estate – she brought her nursing skillset with her:
- Process-driven thinking – using the “Assess, Plan, Implement, Evaluate” model to run their business operations.
- Clear communication – daily handovers with her husband to ensure no details slipped through the cracks.
- Emotional intelligence – the ability to build trust quickly with clients – a skillset needed in nursing AND real estate.
These skills weren’t tied to one industry – they were tied to her!
Step 2: Connect Skills to Opportunities
Identifying your transferable skills is just the start. The real magic happens when you connect them to a role you want – and tell that story in your cover letter.
Julie Armistead, Director and HR Lead at Financial Dynamics (above right photo), says: “Let’s be clear, a cover letter can be the deciding factor between success and failure in your application, it’s that simple.”
Her advice?
- Do your homework — research the company, learn their values, and if possible, address your letter to the hiring decision-maker by name (this rarely happens, so you’ll stand out).
- Show cultural fit — if a company values people and family, highlight experiences that reflect those values.
- Explain the relevance — connect the dots between your transferable skills and what they need.
For example, if Crystal was applying for a role in real estate, her cover letter could include: “As a nurse, I developed the ability to assess situations quickly, communicate clearly under pressure, and build trust and rapport quickly with people from all walks of life – skills that I will be able to use to underpin a career in real estate.”
It’s specific, shows relevance, and ties directly to the role.
Step 3: Keep It Concise and Impactful
Julie’s golden rules for a cover letter:
- One page max.
- Explain career gaps – they tell your story!
- Highlight leadership or initiative, even in small ways.
- End with enthusiasm for the role and the company’s future.
Final step: Nailing the Interview
- Prepare answers that showcase your strengths – Before the interview, review the job advert closely. Pick 3 to 5 stories that prove you’ve got what they need — whether it’s solving a tricky problem, leading a team, collaborating across departments, or juggling competing priorities. Real stories show impact.
- When it’s your turn to ask questions, don’t waste it – Show you’re thoughtful and serious about the role. Try questions like: ‘What do you enjoy most about working here?’ … ‘What challenges is the team facing right now?’ … or ‘How do you support career development for employees?’ Questions like these help you stand out as forward-thinking.
- And finally – the Golden Question to ask – You wait until they have asked their final questions and you have asked your above question. Ask: ‘Is there anything about my application or experience that makes you unsure whether I’d be successful in this role?’ If they say no — amazing, you walk out on a high. If they say yes — even better. You get to clear up concerns right then and there, and reassure them you’re the right fit.
Back Yourself
Your skills are worth more than you think. When you recognise them, shape them into a story, and share them with intention, you stop blending in – and start standing out.
If you’re ready to put your skills to work, start by making your own list of transferable skills, then explore what’s available here on the South Coast. You might be surprised where your abilities can take you.
