You've made the decision to go back to work.  It might be the same type of work you did before, or you might want to do something completely different.  Either way, the number of postings can get overwhelming.  Here’s a way to prevent that. 

Focus on the job requirements.    Sounds simple but there’s more to it.  Ideally you should be fulfilling at least 70% of the requirements, because that’s how most HR departments are determining whether or not you make the first cut.  After that you will eventually meet the hiring manager.  The questions asked during the interview will undoubtedly come from those same requirements.

Let’s look at the difference between “transferable skills” and “technical skills”.  Of course job postings don’t break it down that way (that would be too easy).  Instead, it’s up to you when looking at the requirements section of the posting, to figure it out. 

Transferable skills should be where you’ll check off most of the boxes.  Below is a list of the most common transferable skills.  From the list below, you’ll see quite quickly that some of these skills are already in your repertoire:

• Critical thinking, analytical or problem solving skills
• Project management and planning skills
• Communication skills (verbal, listening, writing)
• Relationship building/teamwork skills
• Organization and time management skills
• Creative skills
• Leadership skills

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The tough part is how you convey those skills to an employer on your resume or during an interview.  But it’s not impossible.  Start by choosing one of the above skills and then reflect on your daily, weekly and monthly activities.  Build a list of examples.  Do it for each transferable skill.  Then work those examples into the “accomplishments” section of your resume.  During an interview, use those examples to help you respond and answer questions.
 
Technical skills are more black and white.  Either you have them or you don’t.  These include skills and/or knowledge that has a specific focus (i.e. graphic designer, network administrator, an accounting designation, etc.).  In most cases these skills would have been obtained through your education or from professional associations.
 
If you keep your job search laser focused, you’ll make better use of your time and (hopefully) in less time, see the results you want.