Whether you are a school leaver, a graduate, unemployed or looking for a change in career direction, transferable skills can really make you stand out from the crowd.

Transferable skills can come from your current job, from a job in an unrelated area or from sports, hobbies and voluntary work.

It's worth knowing which skills are most wanted by employers so you can highlight them in future job applications. According to Jobcentre Plus, some of the top skills employers are looking for are:

• Creativity - Whether you come up with a new, inventive idea or find a solution to a difficult problem, thinking outside of the box and displaying creativity is a real bonus in many jobs.

• People skills - Convincing others and listening well are really valuable skills, particularly in customer service and sales jobs. Working well as a team drives greater productivity for the business, and also builds healthy and supportive relationships in the workplace.

• Leadership - Being someone who can coach, empower and support people around you is a great skill in the workplace. This isn't just a skill for managers! Anyone can help get the best out of their team.

• Adaptability - Being adaptable means you are able to respond quickly to changing ideas, responsibilities, expectations, and other processes at work. It's a great way to show you're flexible and eager to learn.

• Time management - Being able to monitor your workload and meet deadlines is an important skill in any job. It helps you accomplish more, even when time isn't on your side.