One of the hardest parts of switching careers is knowing which of your skills can be applied in a new way. The good news is many industries may value your talents as much as your current one does. Here’s how to identify your transplantable core skills:

• Tap other reinventers. Consult with people who have already transitioned from your industry to a different career. Discuss what core skills you might be overlooking and how they could apply outside.
• Confer with outsiders. Talk with a wide range of folks outside your industry. Ask them about your core skills: How you should market them? What are less-obvious functions or organizations looking for such skills? What are the obstacles to landing such work?
• Create a strategic message. Distill your goals and skills into a simple statement to guide you. For example: “Communicate clearly, execute fast, think creatively, and act with courage.”