Transferable Skills in a Disruptive Market

In my many years as a strategic communicator and marketer, I have seen my share of the trend requiring industry specialization, and in all honesty I think it's an overrated requirement.

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In a connected world like ours, competitive professionals who are serious about their careers usually possess a couple of skills that can't be taught.

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Those skills define their drive and presence in a continuously disruptive market:

1. The ability to be a quick study,
2. The willingness to be on a constant learning curve,
3. The ability to demonstrate that their skill set is transferrable regardless of the sector or industry.

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When a professional communicator, for example, is solid in their area of expertise it is quite easy for them to navigate through a new realm, and this is where the other two skills mentioned above come in handy.

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If a communicator has the willingness to constantly learn, then they are most probably familiar with other industries and sectors, specifically in our interrelated global economies. Add to that, if they are a quick study, then they will be able to learn the ins and outs of an industry in no time.

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Whenever I am challenged with the thought of specialization, I usually use the example of consultants who work for the EY's, BCG's and Deloitte's of our world.

The consultants in those firms tackle an array of sectors and industries, yet they are able to shift gears whenever needed because of their understanding of the overall global business structures and their ability to tackle any industry from a macro level, and that's what sets them apart.

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All I can say to any professional with an exceptional skill set is this…

?Don't let anyone tell you that you can't move industries. Build your knowledge consistently and move as you please when and where it makes sense.

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Go get them!