In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the most impactful skills to put on resume, the difference between hard and soft skills, and how to tailor your resume to different job applications.
Why Skills Matter on a Resume
Skills provide a snapshot of what you bring to the table. They demonstrate your capabilities and show that you possess the tools needed to succeed in the role. When properly listed, they can:
- Help your resume pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
- Showcase your ability to meet job-specific demands.
- Highlight your unique strengths compared to other candidates.
For example, a marketing manager's resume should emphasize skills like SEO, campaign management, and data analytics, while a project manager might focus on leadership, risk management, and budgeting tools.
Types of Skills Employers Seek
To stand out, you need to include a mix of hard and soft skills. Let’s dive into what these terms mean and provide examples.
- Hard Skills
Hard skills are measurable, job-specific abilities acquired through education, training, or experience. They’re often technical and easier to quantify. Examples include.
- Data analysis
- Programming languages (e.g., Python, Java)
- Graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Canva)
- Copywriting and content strategy
- Accounting and financial modeling
- Soft Skills
Soft skills are interpersonal traits that define how you interact with others and adapt to various work environments. Though harder to quantify, they are crucial for collaboration and leadership roles. Examples include:
- Communication
- Time management
- Leadership and mentoring
- Emotional intelligence
- Adaptability
Top Skills to Put on Resume by Industry
Here’s a breakdown of key skills based on different industries to help you align your resume with job-specific requirements:
Marketing and Communications
- SEO and SEM expertise
- Social media strategy
- Content creation tools (e.g., WordPress, HubSpot)
- Analytical tools (e.g., Google Analytics)
Information Technology (IT)
- Coding and programming (e.g., Python, Ruby, C++)
- Cybersecurity protocols
- Database management (e.g., SQL)
- Cloud computing
Healthcare
- Patient care techniques
- Diagnostic tools (e.g., EHR software)
- Crisis management
- Multitasking and empathy
Education
- Lesson planning
- Online learning platforms (e.g., Moodle, Blackboard)
- Classroom management
- Differentiated instruction strategies
By focusing on the skills relevant to your field, you can create a tailored resume that appeals directly to hiring managers.
How to Identify Your Key Skills
It’s important to choose skills that match the job you’re applying for while also reflecting your genuine abilities. Follow these steps to identify which skills to put on resume:
1. Study the Job Description
Look for keywords under sections like "Responsibilities" or "Requirements." These often reveal the specific skills the employer values most.
2. Reflect on Your Strengths
Ask yourself:
- What tools and technologies am I proficient in?
- What challenges have I successfully overcome in my previous roles?
- How do I contribute to team dynamics?
3. Use Online Tools
Career platforms like LinkedIn or job boards like Indeed provide insights into trending skills for your industry. Use them to benchmark your skills against top candidates.
Balancing Hard and Soft Skills
A well-rounded resume blends hard and soft skills to demonstrate technical ability and interpersonal effectiveness. For example:
- Hard Skill: Expertise in Microsoft Excel for data visualization
- Soft Skill: Problem-solving to interpret and present data meaningfully
Let’s break it down further:
- For technical roles (e.g., software engineering), hard skills should dominate.
- For managerial roles, focus equally on leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
By striking this balance, you’ll create a resume that resonates with both recruiters and hiring managers.
How to Format the Skills Section
Proper presentation matters. Use these tips to format your skills section effectively:
1. Use Bullet Points
List skills as bullet points for clarity and readability. Avoid long paragraphs.
2. Categorize Skills
Divide your skills into categories, such as "Technical Skills," "Software Proficiencies," or "Languages."
3. Keep it Relevant
Limit the list to 8–12 skills. Including too many unrelated skills dilutes the focus.
Examples of Skills to Put on Resume
Here are sample skills for different types of resumes:
Administrative Assistant
- Calendar management
- Data entry and database management
- Customer service
- MS Office Suite proficiency
Digital Marketer
- PPC campaign management
- Google Ads certification
- Social media advertising
- Influencer collaboration
Customer Service Representative
- Conflict resolution
- CRM software (e.g., Salesforce)
- Active listening
- Upselling and cross-selling techniques
Project Manager
- Agile methodologies
- Budget forecasting
- Stakeholder communication
- Risk assessment
Overloading with Buzzwords
Instead of generic terms like "team player," provide examples or measurable achievements.
- Including Irrelevant Skills
Focus on skills directly related to the job you’re applying for.
- Exaggerating Expertise
Be honest about your proficiency levels. Misrepresentation can backfire during interviews.
- Final Tips to Stand Out
- Update Regularly
Review and refresh your resume as you acquire new skills or certifications.
- Back Skills with Evidence
Use your work experience section to provide examples of how you’ve applied your skills in the past.
- Be Industry-Specific
Customize your resume for each job. Highlight skills from the job description and tailor them to match your strengths.
For example:
- If applying for a marketing role, emphasize tools like Google Analytics or Hootsuite.
- If seeking a managerial position, showcase leadership qualities with tangible results.
Conclusion
Choosing the right skills to put on resume is essential for standing out in today’s competitive job market. By balancing hard and soft skills, tailoring your resume for each application, and showcasing your expertise with evidence, you’ll significantly increase your chances of success.
Remember, your resume is a marketing tool—it should highlight why you’re the ideal candidate for the role. Take the time to perfect it, and the opportunities will follow.- Including Irrelevant Skills