Understanding Transferable Skills in Vocational Education in Improving Employability for Administrative Assistants: A Literature Study

Abstract

Vocational learning experiences such as practical training, internships, work-integrated learning, and industry projects help students develop transferable skills. Skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, self-management, and digital competence enable administrative assistants to meet evolving workplace demands. Greater adaptability enhances employability, competitiveness, and career growth. Transferable skills become a competency that must be considered as soon as an Administrative Assistant receives training at a higher education vocational school. As an Assistant, one must be able to understand the leaders and the team being served and continuously improve their competencies and knowledge by learning about the industry they work in, as they are expected to understand the meaning of being part of the inner circle of an executive or team when working as an Administrative Assistant. This narrative review explores how vocational learning experiences influence transferable skills, adaptability, competitiveness, and career development for future administrative assistants.