.png?v=491439f92b537e2ada4426aceefeaf2e)
What is the Difference Between Soft Skills and Transferable Skills?
It can be challenging to differentiate between what soft and hard skills you possess, particularly when the term “transferable skills” is added to the mix. How do you accurately categorize these to display them concisely on your resume?
When seeking the next step in your career, skills are your greatest asset, especially in a dynamic environment like Westgate Resorts, where each and every member of our team contributes to creating extraordinary vacation experiences.
We’ve compiled some information to help you understand the key differences and similarities between soft and transferable skills, showing how both can elevate your career at Westgate.
What Are Soft Skills?
Soft skills and soft leadership skills are best thought of as habits and personality traits that are unique to us as individuals. It’s likely you use these skills every day, even outside of the workplace. After all, soft skills shape how you interact with others, build connections, and, when working in hospitality, create memorable guest experiences.
Here are some examples of soft skills for your resume:
- Communication – Strong verbal and written communication skills for clear and effective interaction.
- Teamwork – Ability to collaborate and work effectively with others.
- Adaptability – Willingness to adjust to new situations and challenges.
- Problem-Solving – Critical thinking and creativity to resolve issues efficiently.
- Time Management – Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
- Leadership – Inspiring, motivating, and guiding teams or projects.
- Emotional Intelligence – Understanding and managing emotions for better relationships.
- Conflict Resolution – Handling disputes professionally and finding solutions.
- Work Ethic – Being reliable, dedicated, and responsible.
- Creativity – Thinking outside the box to develop new ideas and solutions.
- Attention to Detail – Ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in work.
- Customer Service – Providing excellent support and fostering positive relationships.
- Networking – Building and maintaining professional connections.
- Flexibility – Being open to new tasks, roles, and responsibilities.
- Resilience – Handling setbacks with a positive attitude and perseverance.
Hospitality is at the heart of what we do at Westgate, which means these skills are critical day to day. Whether you’re welcoming guests at the front desk or serving up plates of food in a restaurant, soft skills help you deliver top-quality customer service with warmth and professionalism.
If you’ve got your eyes set on becoming a manager in the future, it pays to know some soft skills for managers, too.
It’s worth noting that soft skills and transferable skills can overlap. For example, the skills we mentioned above can all be thought of as transferable to different roles and industries.
What Are Transferable Skills?
A transferable skill can be categorized as a versatile ability that applies across various jobs, roles, or industries. This is why soft skills can sometimes fall under this umbrella. If you’re looking for a more in-depth transferable skills definition, make sure to check out our article on how transferable skills set you up for success. You’ll also get some advice on identifying your skills.
Here are some examples of transferable skills:
- Project Management – Planning, organizing, and executing tasks efficiently.
- Data Analysis – Interpreting and making decisions based on data.
- Customer Service – Providing support and maintaining positive relationships.
- Sales & Negotiation – Persuading and influencing decisions to drive results.
- Public Speaking – Confidently presenting ideas to groups.
- Research Skills – Gathering and analyzing information effectively.
- Budgeting & Financial Management – Managing money and financial resources wisely.
- Technical Literacy – Understanding and working with different software and tools.
- Leadership & Team Management – Leading, motivating, and managing people.
- Problem-Solving – Finding solutions to challenges in any work setting.
- Training & Mentoring – Teaching others new skills and guiding professional development.
- Writing & Editing – Creating clear, concise, and professional content.
- Adaptability – Learning new skills and adjusting to different environments.
- Conflict Resolution – Mediating disputes and fostering collaboration.
- Multitasking – Managing multiple responsibilities efficiently. Compared to soft skills, transferable skills are more grounded in experience and can be adapted to new challenges or opportunities, as opposed to being innate personal qualities.
In the hospitality industry, transferable skills prove that you are flexible and adaptable. They serve to empower Team Members to transition between roles or bring expertise from other industries to provide an enriched guest experience.
We’ve got an article on hospitality skills that will make you stand out to your employer. It contains a useful mix of both transferable and soft skills to help you get started.
Why Both Types of Skills Matter at Westgate Resorts
We value well-rounded Team Members who can bring both transferable and soft skills to the table. During your time with us, you’re guaranteed to pick up new skills, and, with our internal growth opportunities, you’ll have a chance to polish these skills in various departments as you pick and choose your career path within Westgate.
Soft Skills
Here are some hospitality jobs that heavily rely on soft skills:
Hotel & Resort Management
- General Manager – Leadership, problem-solving, and communication.
- Front Office Manager – Customer service, conflict resolution, and multitasking.
- Concierge – Communication, customer service, and problem-solving.
Food & Beverage Services
- Restaurant Manager – Leadership, time management, and customer service.
- Bartender – Communication, multitasking, and emotional intelligence.
- Server/Waitstaff – Customer service, adaptability, and teamwork.
Guest Relations & Customer Service
- Guest Services Representative – Communication, problem-solving, and patience.
- Event Planner – Organization, time management, and negotiation.
Housekeeping & Maintenance
- Housekeeping Supervisor – Attention to detail, teamwork, and time management.
- Facilities Manager – Problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership.
Entertainment & Recreation
- Casino Host – Customer service, networking, and emotional intelligence.
- Spa Manager – Leadership, customer service, and adaptability.
These roles require strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to create great guest experiences.
Transferable Skills
Here are hospitality jobs that heavily rely on transferable skills, distinct from those that emphasize soft skills:
Sales & Marketing
- Hotel Sales Manager – Negotiation, relationship management, and business development.
- Digital Marketing Specialist – Content creation, SEO, and data analysis.
- Reservations Agent – Sales, customer relationship management (CRM), and communication.
Operations & Logistics
- Revenue Manager – Financial analysis, forecasting, and pricing strategy.
- Inventory Coordinator – Supply chain management, budgeting, and logistics.
- Purchasing Manager – Vendor negotiation, cost control, and contract management.
Human Resources & Training
- HR Manager – Recruitment, conflict resolution, and employee development.
- Training Coordinator – Public speaking, curriculum development, and leadership.
Technology & Data Management
- IT Support Specialist – Technical troubleshooting, cybersecurity, and software management.
- Data Analyst – Market research, trend forecasting, and reporting.
Health & Wellness Services
- Spa Director – Business operations, financial planning, and service coordination.
- Wellness Program Coordinator – Event planning, health education, and customer engagement.
These transferable skills—such as sales, financial analysis, negotiation, and data management—can be applied in multiple industries, making these roles versatile beyond hospitality.
Bring Your Skills to a Role at Westgate Resorts
Soft skills and transferable skills are both equally important for building and advancing your career at Westgate Resorts.
If you’re ready to make the next move in your career, take the first step today and explore our career opportunities. Who knows what skills you’ll pick up?
Browse our other skills-related content:
Career Opportunities at Westgate Resorts
With 22 full-service resorts in premiere destinations throughout the United States, we're bigger than an orange grove, but at our heart we're still a family business. Whether you're beginning your career, continuing your growth, or a student looking for real-world experience, we have opportunities for you.
Search and ApplySign up to our Careers Blogs!
Related Roles
Salary
Location
Orlando, FL
Type of Employment
Full-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
Resort Ops
TeamClassification
Full Time
Category
Resort Operations
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Orlando
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
Are you energetic and can't sit still? Dancing, painting, hula-hooping – the fun never stops! You have the energy to keep up with guests of all ages. Creating memories is what you do best! To get the
Reference
bfa17b7b-84f9-4b75-8e9e-14895f059168
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Orlando, FL
Type of Employment
Full-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
Resort Ops
TeamClassification
Full Time
Category
Resort Operations
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Orlando
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
Are you passionate about creating memorable experiences for both adults and children? Join our team as an Resort Experience Host where you'll be responsible for curating engaging activities and ensuri
Reference
29cf35d7-517d-48eb-8491-8891127d0bd4
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Kissimmee, FL
Type of Employment
Full-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
F&B/Retail
TeamClassification
Full Time
Category
Food & Beverage
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Kissimmee
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
Serves as primary contact to guests and team members upon arrival in the outlet and on the phone. Specifically responsible for the following detailed duties.As a Cashier, you will:Greet customers with
Reference
101611e7-a4e3-4e8c-b1ea-2dd74167426b
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Orlando, FL
Type of Employment
Part-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
F&B/Retail
TeamClassification
Part Time
Category
Food & Beverage
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Orlando
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
Shaken, stirred, with a salted rim, you know how to fill a glass. It is not just a drink, it’s the conversation that keeps bringing patrons back. Friendly, fun and perfectly paced, juggling spiri
Reference
bf2bfc37-0d39-4b06-8cb0-bf3e7aed033d
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Las Vegas, NV
Type of Employment
Part-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
F&B/Retail
TeamClassification
Steady Extra
Category
Food & Beverage
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Las Vegas
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
General Summary Of Duties:Responsible for preparation and production of quality sauces for all food outlets from the main kitchen. Role and Responsibilities: (Includes but is not limited to the follow
Reference
041bc540-eb3f-4f05-b0e0-20c5c4823da2
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Las Vegas, NV
Type of Employment
Part-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
F&B/Retail
TeamClassification
Steady Extra
Category
Food & Beverage
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Las Vegas
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
General Summary Of Duties:Safely prepare food to recipe standard for service to the guest. Role and Responsibilities: (Includes but is not limited to the following)In a timely fashion, physically slic
Reference
1eb932c2-5925-45f7-a666-c35351c1d33d
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Las Vegas, NV
Type of Employment
Part-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
F&B/Retail
TeamClassification
Steady Extra
Category
Food & Beverage
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Las Vegas
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
General Summary Of Duties:Clear, clean and reset tables in the hotel coffee shop. Ensure operating equipment is placed on each table such as condiments, napkins, cutlery etc.. Assist the Food Server
Reference
9d034876-0b70-4e60-a140-17429af71bb2
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Las Vegas, NV
Type of Employment
Part-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
F&B/Retail
TeamClassification
Steady Extra
Category
Food & Beverage
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Las Vegas
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
General Summary Of Duties:Deliver and serve food and/or beverage items in a professional, friendly, courteous and timely manner resulting in guest satisfaction. Role and Responsibilities: (Includes bu
Reference
18e76e1d-95ed-4f6c-99c6-7c9edf6cf30f
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Las Vegas, NV
Type of Employment
Part-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
F&B/Retail
TeamClassification
Steady Extra
Category
Food & Beverage
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Las Vegas
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
General Summary Of Duties:Deliver and serve food and/or beverage items in a professional, friendly, courteous and timely manner resulting in guest satisfaction. Role and Responsibilities: (Includes bu
Reference
86adaf13-be70-4ee7-ad41-2e77984b9327
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensSalary
Location
Las Vegas, NV
Type of Employment
Part-time
Function
Customer Service
Division
F&B/Retail
TeamClassification
Steady Extra
Category
Food & Beverage
Experience Level
Associate
Location
Las Vegas
Workplace type
O - On Property or In Office
Brands
Westgate Resorts
Description
General Summary Of Duties:To take and prepare guest food orders and complete cashiering functions. Ensure the cleanliness of the area. Maintain the stock and inventory of the outlet. Role and Respons
Reference
fbf3e84e-a0d5-4c3f-9160-9096e0f3faf3
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Bailey StevensAuthor
Bailey StevensRelated Articles
.png)
Teaser
General Career InsightContent Type
BlogsPublish date
06/18/25
Summary
We all work to live, but sometimes it feels as if we live to work, and for many, that can cause serious job burnout, regardless of one's work ethic or position. We’re here to discuss coping with
.png)
Content Type
BlogsPublish date
06/05/25
Summary
Picture your dream vacation, and you might picture yourself relaxing in a beautiful hotel room in a scenic resort, but you might not think about what goes on in the behind-the-scenes operations t
.png)
Teaser
General Career InsightContent Type
BlogsPublish date
06/05/25
Summary
When looking at a resume, a hiring manager decides whether they like your resume within six to eight seconds: you must make an impression almost immediately! The resume’s goal is to stand out and
.png)
Teaser
General Career InsightContent Type
BlogsPublish date
05/23/25
Summary
No one’s position is guaranteed or secure per se, in terms of being entitled to it; you have to make a case for why you belong there in that role, at that job, and the case isn't a one-time prese
.png)
Teaser
Sales and MarketingContent Type
BlogsPublish date
05/19/25
Summary
Hotel jobs at Westgate offer an exciting opportunity to be part of a dedicated team When it comes to landing your dream job in sales, it's not just about selling yourself—it's about showcasing th
.png)
Content Type
BlogsPublish date
05/18/25
Summary
Dive into Westgate’s Lifeguarding jobs for the summer, where you'll safeguard our guests and experience endless opportunities for personal growth and adventure! Whether you’re a seasoned professi
.png)
Content Type
BlogsPublish date
05/16/25
Summary
What Are the Highest Paying Jobs in Hospitality? It might surprise you, but the hospitality industry offers an array of career opportunities, ranging from entry-level positions to high-paying ex
.png)
Teaser
General Career InsightContent Type
BlogsPublish date
05/08/25
Summary
Join a vibrant team that values creativity, collaboration, and career growth. If you’ve been wondering, “What is the quickest way to get hired?”, you aren't alone; every jobseeker's dream is to s
.png)
Teaser
General Career InsightContent Type
BlogsPublish date
05/01/25
Summary
Hotel jobs at Westgate offer an exciting opportunity to be part of a dedicated team If you’re considering bringing your career to the hospitality sector, you’ll want to know all about the emergin
.png)
Content Type
BlogsPublish date
04/24/25
Summary
Join a vibrant team that values creativity, collaboration, and career growth. We’ve all been there; we wait so long for that promotion, and we are absolutely crushed when it doesn’t happen. If yo
Summer 2022 Recruitment is live
Work Abroad – In these roles, we will place you in any one of our 100+ fabulous holiday destinations for the season. We will arrange your flights, accommodation and the necessities to ensure you get settled into your new home quickly and can start enjoying your new job.
Read moreRecently Viewed Jobs