When I was considering careers outside of teaching, I had a hard time recognizing skills I had outside of teaching. It took some time (and lots of support from my own circle and community) for me to realize that my teaching jobs did not only entail the actual teaching aspect, but it also forced me to develop other skills such as communication skills, time management, conflict management and more. More importantly, I enjoyed these non-academic parts of my job. Once I made a list of these skills, I could then use them to my advantage in crafting my resume and doing well in my interviews.
To get started on identifying your own transferrable skills, take some time for self-reflection. Identify the skills you’ve honed during your teaching journey and consider how they might align with your desired career path. Here are a few tips to get started:
- Make a List: Jot down specific examples of when you’ve demonstrated each skill, both in and out of the classroom.
- Seek Feedback: Ask colleagues, friends, and family for their perspectives on your strengths and skills. They might see qualities in you that you’ve overlooked. This was a very important step for me as I’m the kind of person who finds it difficult to value my own skills.
- Explore Industries: Research industries or roles that pique your interest and find out which skills are highly valued in those fields. For me personally, I was very keen on the sales/post-sales in tech, so I combed through LinkedIn and other job sites, took very close notes on the job/skill requirement sections of these postings, then started to list my own transferrable skills that were applicable to these jobs.
- Connect with Mentors: Seek guidance from individuals who have made similar career transitions. Their insights can be invaluable. I connected with many people on LinkedIn with the tag #transitioningteachers and #transitionedteachers, and learned a lot from their stories and advice.
Remember, teaching isn’t just about lesson plans and grading papers; it’s about fostering a nurturing environment, sparking curiosity, and adapting to diverse needs. These core skills make teachers exceptionally adaptable and well-prepared for success in various professional settings. Here is a list of just a few of the core skills that teachers have that make them excellent candidates for jobs outside of the classroom:
- Communication Mastery
Teachers are consummate communicators. Whether it’s explaining complex concepts, mediating conflicts, or connecting with students, parents and other staff members, effective communication is at the heart of teaching. This skill is a powerhouse in any career that involves teamwork, client relations, or public speaking. - Adaptability and Problem-Solving
The classroom is a dynamic environment, and teachers are masters of adaptability. They pivot seamlessly to address unexpected challenges and find creative solutions on the fly. This skill is a game-changer in roles in tech where agility and innovation are prized, such as project management, technical roles such as software development or technical support, or even data analysis. - Excellent Organization and Time-Management
Teachers are meticulous organizers, handling multiple subjects, schedules, and students with finesse. Their organizational skills are highly valued in roles professions like database administration, or the world of operations management. - Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
Teaching comes hand-in-hand with the ability to connect deeply with students. Most educators have high levels of emotional intelligence, and excel in understanding and connecting with students of diverse backgrounds. The ability to read people and respond with empathy is highly valued in careers that prioritize client services or human resources. - Leadership and a Collaborative Spirit
In the classroom, teachers naturally step into leadership roles, fostering a culture of teamwork and collaboration. These leadership qualities seamlessly translate into roles as team leads, project managers, or department heads.
Remember, a career transition is a journey, not a sprint. Embrace the excitement and potential that come with exploring new opportunities. By recognizing your transferable skills, you’re taking the first step toward a fulfilling and successful career beyond teaching.
Are you ready to embark on this exciting journey? We invite you to stay with us at TeacherTechTransform for continuous inspiration, valuable guidance, and heartfelt stories from educators who’ve successfully made the leap into tech and other fields and are genuinely thriving! 🚀
teachertechtransform.com 