If you have recently made a significant career change or been promoted, you know how challenging it is to find your footing. Maybe you are still learning about the industry or struggling to adapt to leading a new team. Whatever the case might be, you may want to seek out ways to solidify your leadership capabilities in your new job.

The secret is to avoid thinking of yourself in the past tense. For example, "I am an ex-attorney" or "I used to work in marketing." Get yourself out of this mindset and refocus your attention on what you have to offer yourself and others in your new career or position. To help you out, here are a couple transferable skills that you can leverage to get ahead and be successful in your new role:

Communication
The vast majority of employees around the country communicate with others in some capacity. Even if it was done so online or over the phone, you have some sort of communication skills to offer your new job and team. Even if you are unfamiliar with certain business-specific jargon or project goals, don't be afraid to engage with your coworkers and employees, asking them questions and listening to what they have to say.

If you understand the industry, but are not used to leading a large group of people, take this time to connect with your individual team members in one-on-one sessions. These meetings will not only show your new employees that you care, but will help you get to know them better and become more comfortable in your role.

Analytical thinking
Most employees are inherent problem solvers. Your boss assigns you a task or goal and you must solve the problem or meet the deadline efficiently and effectively. You might not be reading over spreadsheets of data everyday, but that doesn't mean you can't leverage your analytical, critical-thinking skills to benefit your current company. 

Whether you will be interacting with clients, running a facility or educating young people, you will need to think strategically about your next steps and what is best for everyone involved. Your analytical skills are easily transferable into whatever you decide to pursue in the future. They can range from data collection to simple calculation skills.

With both communication and analytical thinking skills, you will be well equipped and supported to succeed at your new job. At ProSolutions Training, we are committed to assisting the career development for professionals in the fields of early childhood education, social work and more. Check out our course on "Meeting Your Career Potential" by clicking here.