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21+ Functional Skills Examples for Your Resume

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In the competitive job market, having a well-rounded set of functional skills can set you apart. But what are some examples of these skills? Let’s delve into the top 21+ functional skills examples you need to make your resume stand out.

Functional skills, also known as transferable skills, are abilities that are applicable across a variety of jobs and industries. They can include everything from communication and teamwork to problem-solving and time management. In this article, we’ll explore the top 21+ functional skills examples that can make your resume shine. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to refine your resume or a fresh graduate trying to break into the job market, this guide is for you.

Top 21 Functional Skills Examples for Your Resume

How to list functional skills examples on your resume, how to develop functional skills examples, jobs that demand functional skills examples, 1. communication.

Communication is a key functional skill that involves conveying information clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.

2. Teamwork

Teamwork is a functional skill that involves working effectively with others to achieve a common goal. It includes collaboration, conflict resolution, and group problem-solving.

3. Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is a functional skill that involves identifying, analyzing, and solving problems. It’s crucial in many roles, from customer service to management.

4. Leadership

Leadership is a functional skill that involves guiding and inspiring others. It includes decision-making, delegation, and strategic planning.

5. Time Management

Time management is a functional skill that involves using your time effectively and productively. It includes prioritization, planning, and task management.

6. Adaptability

Adaptability is a functional skill that involves adjusting to new conditions. In today’s fast-paced work environment, being adaptable is a valuable trait.

7. Creativity

Creativity is a functional skill that involves thinking outside the box to come up with new ideas or solutions. It’s key in roles that involve innovation or problem-solving.

8. Technical Literacy

Technical literacy is a functional skill that involves the ability to use, manage, assess, and understand technology. In today’s digital age, this is a must-have skill for many jobs.

9. Customer Service

Customer service is a functional skill that involves meeting the needs of customers. It includes empathy, patience, and problem-solving.

10. Project Management

Project management is a functional skill that involves planning, executing, and overseeing projects. It includes organization, time management, and risk management.

11. Analytical Thinking

Analytical thinking is a functional skill that involves examining information and using logic to solve problems. It’s crucial in roles that involve data analysis or strategic planning.

Sales is a functional skill that involves persuading others to buy products or services. It includes communication, negotiation, and relationship building.

13. Negotiation

Negotiation is a functional skill that involves reaching an agreement through discussion. It’s key in roles that involve sales, business development, or conflict resolution.

14. Decision-Making

Decision-making is a functional skill that involves choosing the best course of action from several options. It’s crucial in many roles, especially management.

15. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a functional skill that involves recognizing and managing your own emotions and the emotions of others. It’s key in roles that involve teamwork or customer service.

16. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is a functional skill that involves analyzing information and making reasoned judgments. It’s crucial in roles that involve problem-solving or decision-making.

17. Networking

Networking is a functional skill that involves building and maintaining professional relationships. It’s key in roles that involve business development or job hunting.

18. Multitasking

Multitasking is a functional skill that involves juggling multiple tasks at once. It’s valuable in fast-paced work environments.

19. Research

Research is a functional skill that involves gathering and analyzing information. It’s key in roles that involve problem-solving, decision-making, or innovation.

20. Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution is a functional skill that involves resolving disagreements in a constructive way. It’s crucial in roles that involve teamwork or customer service.

21. Public Speaking

Public speaking is a functional skill that involves speaking in front of a group. It’s key in roles that involve presentations, meetings, or leadership.

Remember, showcasing these functional skills examples on your resume can give you a competitive edge. But it’s not just about listing them. You need to demonstrate how you’ve used these skills in your past roles. This is where a tool like an AI Resume Builder can come in handy. It can help you craft a compelling resume that highlights your functional skills in a way that catches the eye of recruiters.

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Listing your functional skills examples on your resume is more than just a simple enumeration. It’s about strategically placing them where they’ll make the most impact. Here’s how you can do it:

• Include them in your summary or objective: Start strong by highlighting your top functional skills examples in your resume summary or objective. This immediately tells recruiters that you have the skills they’re looking for.
• Highlight them in your work experience: Don’t just list your job duties. Instead, demonstrate how you’ve used your functional skills to achieve results. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Add a dedicated skills section: This is where you can list your functional skills examples in detail. Be sure to include both hard skills (like technical literacy or project management) and soft skills (like communication or teamwork).
• Mention them in your education and certifications: If you’ve taken courses or earned certifications related to your functional skills, be sure to mention them. This shows recruiters that you’re committed to honing your skills.
• Incorporate them into your cover letter: Your cover letter is another opportunity to showcase your functional skills examples. Use it to tell a story about how you’ve used these skills to make a difference.
• Use keywords from the job description: Recruiters often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes. By using keywords from the job description, you can increase your chances of getting past these systems.
• Show, don’t tell: Instead of simply stating that you have a certain skill, provide examples of how you’ve used it in the past. This makes your resume more compelling and believable.

Remember, a well-crafted resume can make all the difference in your job search. If you need help designing your resume, consider using a Resume Design tool. It can help you create a professional-looking resume that showcases your functional skills examples in the best light.

Developing your functional skills examples is a continuous process. Here are some ways you can do it:

• Take courses: There are plenty of online courses that can help you learn or improve your functional skills. Sites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of courses on topics like communication, leadership, and technical literacy.
• Earn certifications: Certifications can boost your credibility and demonstrate your expertise. Consider earning certifications related to your functional skills examples.
• Practice: The best way to develop your functional skills is by practicing. Work on projects, solve problems, and get your hands dirty.
• Stay updated: The world of work is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies by reading industry blogs, attending webinars, and participating in forums.
• Learn from others: Join professional communities and learn from your peers. You can ask questions, share your knowledge, and get feedback on your work.
• Work on real-world projects: Nothing beats real-world experience. If you can, work on real-world projects. This will not only help you develop your skills but also give you something to showcase on your resume.
• Seek mentorship: If you know someone who’s experienced in your field, ask them to mentor you. They can provide you with valuable insights, advice, and feedback.

Remember, developing your functional skills examples takes time and effort. But with persistence and the right resources, you can do it. If you need help along the way, don’t hesitate to seek Resume Help . They can provide you with tips and advice on how to showcase your skills on your resume.

Your functional skills examples can open the door to a wide range of jobs. Here are some jobs that require these skills:

• Project Manager: These professionals use functional skills like leadership, teamwork, and project management to oversee projects from start to finish.
• Sales Representative: These professionals use functional skills like communication, negotiation, and customer service to sell products or services.
• Data Analyst: These professionals use functional skills like analytical thinking, research, and technical literacy to analyze and interpret data.
• Customer Service Representative: These professionals use functional skills like communication, problem-solving, and customer service to assist customers.
• Marketing Manager: These professionals use functional skills like creativity, decision-making, and networking to develop and implement marketing strategies.
• Software Developer: These professionals use functional skills like problem-solving, multitasking, and technical literacy to design and develop software.

Remember, these are just a few examples. Your functional skills examples can open the door to a wide range of opportunities. So whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, honing your functional skills examples can give you a competitive edge. And if you need help crafting a resume that showcases these skills, consider using a Resume Maker . It can help you create a resume that gets you noticed.

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Published by Sarah Samson

Sarah Samson is a professional career advisor and resume expert. She specializes in helping recent college graduates and mid-career professionals improve their resumes and format them for the modern job market. In addition, she has also been a contributor to several online publications.

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