Understand what it means to be adaptable in the workplace

In today's world, changes in technology, business strategies, and working practices are the new normal. Adjusting to shifting responsibilities, mastering unfamiliar tools, or responding to organisational restructures can be challenging – yet each change is a chance to sharpen your adaptability. As employers increasingly seek versatile team members, it's essential to highlight these skills on your CV. In this guide, we'll explore what adaptability skills are, how to enhance them, and ways to showcase them effectively.

What are adaptability skills?

Adaptability skills are the personal strengths and learned abilities that help you cope with change, be it new responsibilities, shifting company priorities, or unexpected setbacks. They rely on open-mindedness, strategic thinking, and resilience. By developing these skills, you'll find it easier to take on tasks, pivot towards new objectives, and respond constructively to criticism or unforeseen obstacles.

Adaptability is often associated with “change management,” the preparation and support offered during organisational transitions. Demonstrating adaptability on your CV – supported by examples of navigating unexpected challenges – shows employers you're ready to help guide teams through change and achieve success.

7 adaptability skills to embrace in the workplace

Adaptability isn't just about reacting to what's new; it involves developing a range of skills that help you navigate changing circumstances confidently. Strengthening these core skill types will ensure you're ready to face unexpected challenges, embrace new situations, and thrive in evolving workplaces.

1. Communication skills

Clear, empathetic communication helps you build trust, keep everyone on the same page, and create a positive environment for change. Strong listening and feedback skills also ensure that you confidently ask for clarification and respond thoughtfully to shifting needs.

2. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills

When plans go awry, a solution-oriented approach is essential. Adaptable professionals remain calm, evaluate their options, and apply logical reasoning to identify effective next steps. By doing this, you demonstrate that you're a forward-thinker who can handle unforeseen roadblocks.

3. Interpersonal and teamwork skills

Adjusting to new colleagues, managers, or clients requires the ability to connect, collaborate, and maintain positive working relationships. Open-mindedness, active listening, and empathy help you integrate seamlessly into diverse teams and tackle group challenges cohesively.

4. Resilience and emotional flexibility

Change can be stressful, but staying resilient enables you to bounce back from setbacks, learn from mistakes, and remain optimistic. Emotional adaptability ensures that even when things don't go according to plan, you stay focused on finding constructive ways forward.

5. Organisational and time-management skills

Well-developed organisational abilities allow you to stay prepared, keep priorities clear, and respond quickly to shifting demands. By structuring your tasks and processes effectively, you can more easily pivot and meet new targets without feeling overwhelmed.

6. Resourcefulness and innovation

Thinking outside the box is key to adapting to change in the workplace. Finding creative ways to leverage limited resources, testing fresh ideas, and embracing new technologies show that you can pivot rapidly, spot growth opportunities, and stay ahead of the curve.

7. Continuous learning and curiosity

Adaptability thrives on a willingness to learn. Whether it's picking up a fresh skill or seeking mentorship, maintaining a growth mindset ensures you keep evolving and contributing more value over time.

Examples of adaptability at work

Adaptability isn't just a buzzword; it's reflected in how you handle everyday challenges, step up when opportunities arise, and approach new situations with enthusiasm. Here are some practical ways to highlight adaptability in your professional life:

  • Taking on new responsibilities: Volunteer to lead a project outside your comfort zone or temporarily cover for a colleague

  • Suggesting improvements: Propose streamlined processes, championing constructive changes that benefit your team

  • Offering different solutions: Present fresh perspectives on tough problems, showcasing your creative thinking and problem-solving prowess

  • Taking calculated risks: Weigh up potential outcomes and try new approaches that could pay off, demonstrating your willingness to innovate

  • Learning from mistakes: Acknowledge setbacks, adjust your approach, and quickly move forward with a refined strategy

  • Being proactive: Seek out training opportunities, tackle tasks beyond your job description, and show you're eager to grow

  • Maintaining organisational habits: Keep your workspace and files to adapt to unexpected shifts in priorities seamlessly

  • Contributing ideas in meetings: Share input on future strategies, help shape new initiatives, and take on changing goals head-on

  • Embracing change with optimism: Meet transitions and pivots with a can-do attitude that reassures others and paves the way for collective success

By intentionally practising these habits, you'll build a strong reputation as someone who's ready, willing, and able to handle whatever comes next.

How to improve your adaptability skills

Adaptability doesn't just happen overnight, but there are ways to develop it more quickly. As you gain experience in your role, you'll naturally become more comfortable with change. Still, there's always room to grow, and employers value people who meet unexpected challenges head-on. Here are a few strategies to build your adaptability:

1. Ask for honest feedback

Seek input from managers, mentors, and peers about where you can improve. Constructive feedback will give you a clear sense of what to work on and motivate you to set meaningful goals.

2. Set clear, achievable goals

Break down what you want to improve, such as meeting deadlines or listening more attentively, into manageable targets. Tracking your progress helps maintain your focus and prevents overwhelm.

3. Embrace change and challenge tradition

Don't shy away from new processes, tools, or ideas. Pushing yourself out of familiar routines teaches you to see change as an opportunity, not an inconvenience.

4. Adopt a growth mindset

View setbacks as lessons rather than roadblocks. Continually learning – whether by upskilling, following industry trends, or collaborating with others – keeps you adaptable and prepared for whatever comes next.

5. Practice empathy and openness

Recognise that others may find change difficult. Listening to different perspectives and remaining supportive during transitions will help you build stronger, more adaptable relationships at work.

How to show adaptability skills on your CV

To highlight adaptability on your CV, start by weaving it into your personal statement. Instead of simply stating you're “flexible” or “open to change,” share how you've successfully adjusted to new challenges or responsibilities in past roles.

Include adaptability among your key skills if they are strongly featured in the job description. Pair it with related competencies like resilience, communication, or problem-solving to paint a clear picture of your strengths. For example, you might list “Adaptability: demonstrated ability to embrace evolving project requirements and collaborate with diverse teams.”

In your work experience, focus on specific, measurable achievements that reflect adaptability. Perhaps you stepped into a new role on short notice, improved a process under shifting conditions, or confidently navigated cultural differences while working internationally. Use action verbs and quantify results wherever possible, such as:

  • Adapted to a changing editorial calendar, collaborating with three additional departments and reducing production delays by 20%.
  • Successfully integrated new software tools, enhancing team efficiency and meeting tight deadlines.

Lastly, consider referencing any training or certifications that show you continuously develop new skills, reinforcing your commitment to staying ahead of the curve.

Want to learn more about incorporating your adaptability skills into your CV? Our professional CV writers have the answers, so check out the free CV review offered as the first step to finding your next fulfilling role.

This article was originally written by Elizabeth Openshaw and has been updated by Laura Slingo.

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