examples of resume hard skills

100+ Hard Skills for Your Resume - A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

3 key takeaways

• What hard skills are
• 100+ examples of hard skills across industries, roles, and seniority levels
• Adding hard skills for resume sections using the free Teal AI Resume Builder

Your hard skills deserve to be seen.

After all, they're clear, quantifiable representations of what you're professionally capable of.

But what's the most strategic way to make sure they stand out in an increasingly competitive job market? And how do you know the best hard skills for a resume that'll leave a lasting impression?

Decoding hard skills: More than just technical know-how

In today's evolving job market, the conversation around hard skills for your resume (another word for a “hard” skills resume would be a “technical” skills resume) has become increasingly important.

Traditionally, skills are categorized into two types: hard skills and soft skills. And while your soft skills highlight the more abstract or interpersonal skills, hard skills are more tangible, quantifiable, and directly related to job functions or tasks.

An in-depth look at hard skills

Hard skills refer to your practical abilities. They're directly linked to your ability to perform a specific job or task. These skills are typically concrete and measurable. And you can acquire them through education, training, certifications, or on-the-job experience. When it comes to required skills for a role, the particular hard skills are found in the job description—described with very specific language.

Hard skills can encompass a variety of areas depending on your industry and role. For instance, some hard skills examples could be:

• Python programming language skills
• Statistical data analysis
• CNC machine operation
• Quickbooks accounting software

What sets these skills apart is that they're both teachable and testable, often acquired through formal education, online courses, training programs, and similar, more structured, structured learning. They're also objective in that typically, you either have a specific skill, or you don't (and unlike soft skills, your level of expertise or your proficiency level can be measured).

But understanding hard skills goes beyond recognizing them.

Hard skills are continuously evolving, with new ones emerging in response to technological advancements (hello, AI!) and changing industry demands. Most industries are adopting new technologies, methodologies, and tools. And because of this, continuous learning and "upskilling" to acquire and update hard skills is now a key component of professional growth.

Hard skill or soft skill: Which matters most?

While hard skills differ in that they are typically associated with technical competencies, your resume soft skills (or transferable skills) are personal attributes and interpersonal skills that determine how effectively you work or interact with others across most jobs, industries, or career paths. 

Soft skills often include abilities like:

• Communication skills
• Emotional intelligence (EQ)
• Problem-solving skills
• Adaptability

And as companies (especially across industries like tech, industrial, and engineering) rely more and more on automation and technology, the importance of more human-centered soft skills is often emphasized similarly to hard skills. 

However different they may be, these two types of skills are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they're complementary. Most roles or positions require a blend of soft and hard skills for employees to succeed. 

For example, data analysis requires not only statistical knowledge but also critical thinking and storytelling to transform raw data into actionable insights. Similarly, the rise of remote work emphasizes the need for self-management and effective online communication (think platforms like Zoom and Slack), illustrating the codependence of technical hard skills and soft skills.

Crucial hard skills to include on a resume

Now that you have some insight into hard skills and why they're so important, let's look at lists of hard skills examples across industries, roles, and seniority levels that can help you enhance your resume.

General hard skills for a resume 

If you're worried you don’t have very specific technical skills that measure up to a particular role, don't get discouraged just yet. There are some general hard skills for your resume that still pack a punch.  

• Data Analysis : In today's era of big data, the ability to interpret and use information to make informed business decisions is invaluable. Including any knowledge of data analytics tools such as SQL, Python, and Tableau is also beneficial. 
• Project Management Skills : These skills are about overseeing projects to ensure they're completed on time and within budget. Proficiency in project management software like MS Project, JIRA, or Asana can be a definite plus.
• Foreign Language Proficiency : In an increasingly globalized (and remote!) world, being multilingual can be a significant advantage, opening up opportunities in international business and communication.
• Software Development : This hard skill involves designing, implementing, and testing software (as well as indicating strong computer skills). Knowledge of languages like Java, Python, or C++, and an understanding of software development methodologies can make you a valuable asset across various industries.
• Digital Marketing : This encompasses SEO, content marketing, social media marketing, and PPC advertising. A deep understanding of tools like Google Analytics, Facebook Ads Manager, or SEMrush is also a great companion to this skill.
• Machine Learning/AI : With businesses increasingly leveraging AI and ML for decision-making and operations, having this skill can place you on a short list of those candidates with hard skills in tech innovation.
• Technical Writing : The ability to communicate complex information in an easy-to-understand way is critical in many fields. Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and MadCap Flare could increase your appeal to recruiters and hiring managers.
• Cloud Computing : As more businesses move to the cloud, knowledge of cloud service platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud can help boost your prospects.
• Salesforce Proficiency : Salesforce is a leading customer relationship management (CRM) tool. Expertise in this platform can be a significant advantage, particularly in sales and marketing roles. (Other CRM platforms include Hubspot, Zendesk, ClickUp, and Active Campaign). 
• Cybersecurity : With cyber threats on the rise, knowing how to protect and recover systems, networks, and data from cyber-attacks is crucial. Command of tools like Nessus, Wireshark, or Metasploit can strengthen your credentials.

Add hard skills to your resume with Teal

In one click, the Teal AI Resume Builder can help you add all or a selection of your hard skills to a resume without the frustration of rewriting them every time you apply for a specific role. 

You can also categorize your hard skills however you'd like, making them easy for hiring managers to find—maximizing their impact and visibility. 

Technical skills for a resume

Technical skills are abilities learned through training or education that apply to specific work, particularly in fields like IT, engineering, or science. These skills often require the use of complex tools and technologies.

So what are some resume technical skills examples that could strengthen your resume?

• Adobe Creative Suite
• Application Development
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Big Data Management
• CAD Software
• Computational Design
• Computer Programming
• Cybersecurity Analysis
• Database Management
• Information Security
• IoT (Internet of Things)
• Network Structure & Design
• R Programming
• Ruby on Rails
• Statistical Analysis System (SAS)
• Web Development

A look at industry-specific and job-specific hard skills examples

Industry and job-specific hard skills pertain to a particular role or field. And they can help you stand out as a qualified candidate, which mean it is essential to showcase your hard skills on a resume.

While positions like software engineer, sales rep, and graphic designer might have overlapping soft skills, the hard skills they require are much more specific and specialized.

So let's go over some of the best hard skills for a resume across different roles across a few industries.

Essential resume hard skills for tech-savvy roles

These hard skills are often sought after in roles that require a high degree of technological knowledge or expertise.

Hard skills for Software Engineers

• Algorithm Design
• Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)
• Database Design
• Mobile Application Development
• Quality Assurance (QA)
• Scripting Languages
• Version Control Systems (VCS)

Find more software engineer resume skills .

Hard skills for Data Analysts and Data Scientists

• Advanced Excel
• Apache Hadoop
• Data Mining
• Data Visualization
• Deep Learning
• Predictive Analytics
• Regression Analysis

Explore over a dozen data analyst resumes for additional hard skill inspiration.

Hard skills for IT professionals and analysts

• Active Directory
• Cloud Security
• Ethical Hacking
• Malware Analysis
• Network Security
• Risk Management
• Server Administration
• System Administration
• Virtualization

Review the skill sections of these IT analyst resumes

Hard skills for creative roles

In creative roles, hard skills often relate to the ability to produce tangible outputs or work with specific tools or technologies.

Hard skills for Marketing resumes

• A/B Testing
• Affiliate Marketing Skills
• Content Management Systems (CMS)
• CRM Software (be specific)
• Email Marketing Skills
• Google AdWords
• Inbound Marketing Skills
• Keyword Research (be clear about the tools you use)
• SEM (Search Engine Marketing)
• SEO (Search Engine Optimization) 
• Video Editing

Hard skills for UX & Design resumes

• Adobe InDesign
• Information Architecture
• Interaction Design
• Prototype Design
• Technical Drawing
• User Interface (UI) Design
• Wireframing

Hard skills for Content and Copywriting resumes

• Content Strategy
• Google Suite 
• HTML/CSS for Writers
• Project Management Skills
• SEO Copywriting
• Technical Documentation
• Web Content Writing
• Writing skills

List of hard skills for managerial roles

Managerial roles often require a blend of technical and industry-specific hard skills. Your resume leadership skills (both hard and soft) can draw attention to positions you've held and offer a clear picture of career progression. 

Hard skills for Customer Success resumes

• Customer Lifecycle Management
• Customer Success Strategy
• Customer Success Operations
• Data Analysis
• Metrics and KPIs
• Project Management
• Revenue Expansion
• SaaS Knowledge
• Team Leadership

Hard skills for Project Management resumes

• Agile Methodologies
• Contract Management Skills
• Earned Value Management
• Gantt Charts
• Microsoft Project
• Process Improvement
• Risk Assessment

Hard skills for Sales Leadership resumes

• Cold Calling
• CRM Tools (be specific) 
• Direct Sales
• Leadership Skills
• Market Research
• Negotiation
• Presentation
• Product Knowledge
• Sales and Budget Forecasting
• Sales Strategy and Planning 

Hard skills for general leadership resumes

• Business Strategy
• Change Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Financial Management
• Human Resource Management
• Operations Management
• Organizational Development
• Strategic Planning
• Supply Chain Management
• Talent Management

Emerging hard skills to look for in 2024

With the rapid pace of tech advancement, emerging hard skills continue to shape the job market. To remain ahead in your field, stay updated on these skills.

• 3D Printing : The ability to design and print three-dimensional objects using specialized software.
• Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Development : The creation of immersive digital environments and experiences using AR and VR technology.
• Cryptocurrency Knowledge : Understanding the mechanisms of digital currencies like Bitcoin, including blockchain technology, mining, and trading strategies.
• Data Privacy : The ability to protect and manage personal and confidential data in compliance with evolving privacy laws and regulations.
• Drone Operation : Piloting uncrewed aerial vehicles, often used in cinematography, agriculture, or emergency services.
• Edge Computing : Processing and analyzing data where it is generated—reducing latency and increasing data processing speed.
• Genomics : The ability to sequence, interpret, and apply genome data, crucial in healthcare and biotech sectors.
• Green Energy Technologies : Skills in designing, implementing, or managing technologies that generate environmentally friendly energy (like solar or wind power systems).
• Quantum Computing : Understanding and working with computers and systems that use quantum bits (qubits) to perform complex calculations at unprecedented speeds.
• Robotics : The ability to design, construct, operate, and apply robots or robotic systems (increasingly in demand in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics).

Mastering presentation: How to list hard skills on your resume

Mastering the art of hard-skill presentation on a resume isn't just about creating a bullet point list. It's about strategically adding hard skills throughout your resume to amplify your potential to leave a lasting impression on prospective employers.

Choosing the right hard skills 

Listing the right hard skills on a resume comes down to understanding what a hiring manager or recruiter is looking for and presenting your relevant hard skills to match these needs. 

So how do you choose the best hard skills for your resume?  

Create a master list of hard skills

Brainstorm all of your technical abilities, certifications, and education. What industry-specific knowledge and expertise do you have? What project management, analytical, or leadership methodologies and frameworks have you worked with? What software or tools are you proficient in within your field? Once you have your list, store it in one central location for easy access when it comes time to fill out an application. 

Pro Tip: The free Teal AI Resume Builder Skills Manager is a great place to do this.

Store all of your skills in one central location. Then, just check the box next to a specific skill to add it to your resume for any role you apply for.

Manage all of your hard skills in one place with Teal.   Sign up for free to get started .

Read the job description

A job description often offers insight into the relevant skills needed to perform in a specific role. Look for words or phrases that indicate tools and technical competencies like "Google Analytics," "process improvement," "project management," "Python," "content strategy," etc.

The Teal AI Resume Builder and Job Application Tracker highlight the most important hard skills from any job description so you can easily list them on your resume.

Match your skills to the role

Once you've identified the key skills required, you should match these with your own. Between hard skills, soft skills, and other requirements, you want to have at least 70% of the qualifications a company is looking for. (But remember, honesty is critical, so only incorporate your actual skills.)

How to demonstrate hard skills on a resume 

Demonstrating hard skills on a resume in various sections offers a high-level view of your technical abilities. Dispersing them adds depth and showcases your well-rounded skillset. 

So what sections should have examples of your hard skills? 

Professional Summary

Incorporate hard skills in your professional summary, or short professional bio , to complement your soft skills and most notable accomplishments. 

For example, if you're a software engineer, one sentence of your professional summary could look like this: "As a highly skilled software engineer with 10+ years of experience, I have expertise in Python development, database management, and a strong problem-solving mindset."

Work Experience

Include hard skills in your work experience achievements to complement your soft skills and illustrate how you effectively achieved impact. 

So, let's say you increased conversions by 3x through A/B testing and data analysis of landing page copy as an achievement; that would look like this: 

"Achieved a 3x increase in conversions through A/B testing, effectively utilizing data analysis to identify and implement data-driven solutions that optimized website performance and user experience."

Create a dedicated resume "Skills" section to highlight hard skills related to those in the job description.

A list draws attention to your diverse range of abilities and highlights the unique qualities you bring to the table as a professional. And using a dedicated section prominently showcases your technical expertise and interpersonal skills.

Highlighting hard skills with Teal's Resume Builder

The best practice for adding hard skills to your resume is choosing the ones that align with the job description of the role you're applying for. Then incorporate them in each section to elevate your entire professional profile—and you can do this with the free Teal AI Resume Builder. 

Step 1: Sign up for a free Teal account if you haven't yet.

Step 2: Click the "Resume Builder" icon in the left navigation panel. From here, you can choose an existing resume or click the "New Resume" button at the top right.

Step 3 : To add hard skills to your professional summary, scroll to Professional Summaries, click the drop-down button, then "Add Professional Summary." (Create one from scratch, or click the "Generate With AI" Button.)

Step 4:  To hard skills to your work experience, from the Resume Builder, scroll to Work Experience. Then, click the drop-down button. Click "Add Work Experience" to create a new section or "Add an Achievement" to incorporate hard skills into an existing work history.

Step 5: To add hard skills to your "Skills" section in the Resume Builder, scroll to Skills, click the drop-down button, then "Add Skills." Here you can list your skills individually in addition to incorporating them into a summary or achievements. 

Real examples of hard skills on resumes 

Check out some real-life examples of hard skills on resumes through various sections and across different position levels and roles.

Student resume examples of hard skills

Professional summary

Certifications

Entry-level experience resume examples of hard skills 

Entry-level social media manager 

Entry-level software developer

Entry-level data scientist 

Mid-level experience resume examples of hard skills 

Graphic designer 

Business analyst

Project manager 

Senior-level experience resume examples of hard skills  

VP of Sales

Chief administrative officer

Senior IT analyst  

How to tailor hard skills to fit job descriptions

By tailoring your resume to every role you apply for, you demonstrate how your skills align with the position's requirements. And this helps hiring managers evaluate how qualified you are.

Think of your hard skills as ingredients for a recipe and the job description as your cookbook. Creating a dish with delicious flavor requires specific ingredients, and so does the right candidate for a job.

To tailor your resume to a role, start by carefully reading the job description—this is your recipe. Pay attention to the skills the employer is looking for (these are the 'key ingredients'). Are they looking for proficiency in a particular language or expertise in a software tool?

Next, look at your own set of hard skills. (Think of this as your 'kitchen pantry.') Choose those skills that match the ones listed in the job description. And just like the perfect ingredients make a dish flourish, choosing the right hard skills makes you the ideal candidate for the role.

Compare your hard skills with Teal

Want to make sure you've got the best ingredients for every application? Use Matching Mode in Teal's free AI Resume Builder to quickly compare the skills and keywords in a job posting to those in your resume. Then receive a "Match Score." 

You want your Match Score to be as close to 80% as possible . You can incorporate more skills and other keywords from a job listing into your content to improve your score—creating a tailored resume. 

Try Teal's Matching Mode today .

The power of validation: Certifications to boost your hard skills

Certifications are instrumental in strengthening your career. They're a tangible testament to your skill set, expertise, and dedication to continuous learning. 

Certifications in your chosen field—whether in specialized expertise, methodologies, or tools—indicate you have the knowledge and practical capabilities to execute specific tasks. In addition, they offer job seekers a competitive edge in today's crowded market as they provide a platform for recognizing and validating hard skills (often quantifiable and directly linked to job performance).

Different industries value different certifications that highlight diverse hard skills. 

For example, certifications like the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, or Google Certified Professional Data Engineer hold weight in information technology. 

In finance, Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designations are highly valued. 

A Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is an excellent credential for project management professionals. 

Taking time to identify and pursue the right certification or continuing education program in your field that aligns with your career goals can immensely boost your hard skills, helping you stand out. And once you have the certifications, add them to your resume in a designated "Certification" section or include them in your "Education" section to showcase all you have to offer.

The future of hard skills and their implications for the job market

The future of hard skills is being rapidly shaped by the increase in cutting-edge technology development (particularly AI, machine learning, and data science). 

As tech progresses, traditional hard skills may need to be supplemented with expertise in newer technology. And the result could be a significant increase in opportunities for those with skill proficiency in these areas.

As hard skills become more intertwined with technological innovation, so does the importance of lifelong learning. Investing in education, training, and development will be key for job security, more opportunities, and a competitive edge.

Leverage your skills to stand out

Understanding and effectively leveraging your hard skills is crucial to standing out in today's job market. And it isn't just about providing a list of your skills; it's about offering a holistic view of your professional journey, demonstrating how those hard skills, with complementary soft skills, have amplified your impact. 

The Teal AI Resume Builder can help you present those skills with clarity and precision throughout different sections of your resume—highlighting them in a way that resonates with prospective employers.

Start leveraging your hard skills to their full potential. Sign up for Teal for free today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i identify which hard skills i already have.

You can identify which hard skills you already have by analyzing your past experiences, achievements, and hobbies or interests, focusing on the concrete abilities you utilized or developed in these areas.

Is it better to have a wider range of hard skills or to specialize in a few?

The choice between having a wide range of hard skills or specializing depends largely on the specific demands of your industry and your career aspirations. In rapidly changing fields, diversity in skills can be advantageous, while in highly specialized roles, depth of expertise is often more valuable.

How can I effectively demonstrate my hard skills in a job interview?

To effectively demonstrate your hard skills in a job interview, prepare stories from past experiences that highlight these skills in action.

Kayte Grady

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Hard Skills: 75 Best Examples for a Resume in 2024

In today’s competitive job market, having a well-crafted and optimized resume is crucial for ensuring that you stand out from other candidates. One key aspect of a standout resume is showcasing your hard skills.

Definition of Hard Skills

Hard skills, also known as technical skills, are specific abilities and knowledge that are typically job-related and can be taught and measured. These skills are often necessary for performing a particular job, and they vary across different industries and positions. Examples of hard skills include proficiency in programming languages, data analysis, software applications, welding, and project management, among others.

Importance of Hard Skills in Resume

Employers use resumes as a tool to evaluate a candidate’s qualifications, and hard skills are an important factor. While soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are essential to any job, hard skills demonstrate that you have the technical expertise necessary to excel in a particular role.

Highlighting your hard skills on your resume can help you stand out from the competition, as it immediately shows potential employers that you have the skills they need. Additionally, including hard skills in your resume can help you get past applicant tracking systems, which are used by many companies to screen resumes before they ever reach a human recruiter.

Including hard skills in your resume is crucial for demonstrating your qualifications and expertise to potential employers. By showcasing your technical abilities, you increase your chances of getting noticed and landing your dream job. In the next sections, we’ll outline 75 excellent examples of hard skills that you can include in your resume to increase your chances of success.

10 Best Hard Skills for Tech and Engineering Fields

In today’s ever-evolving tech and engineering fields, there is a high demand for individuals with the right set of hard skills. These skills are essential for professionals to stand out in a highly competitive job market. Here are the ten best hard skills that any tech and engineering professional should include on their resume:

Coding and Programming

Professionals with skills in coding and programming are in high demand. Almost all technology-related job roles require this hard skill. Learning programming languages such as Python, C++, and Java can significantly boost a candidate’s employability.

Web Development

Web developers build and maintain websites that allow businesses to showcase products and services to their customers. A professional with web development hard skills should have proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other programming languages.

Data Analysis

The ability to analyze and interpret data is essential for businesses to make informed decisions. With skills in data analysis, a professional can help a company understand market trends, customer behavior, and patterns in sales data.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to revolutionize nearly every aspect of modern technology. Professionals with this skillset can help businesses harness the power of AI to automate processes, streamline production, and enhance efficiency.

Network Administration

With the increasing reliance on technology in businesses, network administrators are in high demand. Network administration hard skills range from network security to network configuration and troubleshooting.

Project Management

Project managers play a crucial role in overseeing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that they reach successful completion within the stipulated timeframe. They create timelines, delegate tasks, and liaise with stakeholders to ensure smooth project delivery.

Database Management

A database administrator or manager takes responsibility for the security, backups, replication, performance, and reliability of databases in a system. They also perform maintenance, monitoring, and testing of the systems to ensure they function optimally.

Quality Control

Quality control professionals ensure that organizations deliver products and services that meet their customers’ expectations. With skills in quality control, a professional can effectively manage a company’s manufacturing process or service delivery.

Technical Writing

Technical writing is essential for industries with highly technical products or services. Professionals with this skill can take complex technical information and translate it into language that is easily understood by non-technical stakeholders.

Hardware Maintenance

Hardware maintenance skills include repairing, upgrading, and maintaining computer hardware components to ensure that they function optimally. People with skills in hardware maintenance perform critical roles in IT departments where hardware is a crucial component of a company’s operations.

Possessing these skills is critical for tech and engineering professionals. Including these hard skills on a resume can give job seekers a significant edge over their competition. Employers look for job candidates who can help their company efficiently utilize technology and maximize their profits.

7 Best Hard Skills for Finance and Accounting Fields

Finance and accounting professionals require a mix of hard skills and soft skills. To succeed in the field, professionals should have a stronghold on essential hard skills, which require technical proficiency, accuracy, and attention to detail. When employers evaluate resumes for finance or accounting positions, they often look for the following seven key hard skills.

1. Financial Analysis

Financial analysis is a vital hard skill that requires a deep understanding of financial statements, ratios, and trends. Such analysis involves examining financial information to identify strengths and weaknesses within a company’s financial performance. Financial analysts also forecast future financial performance and recommend strategies to help companies achieve their financial goals.

2. Tax Preparation

Tax preparation is another important hard skill for finance and accounting professionals. Tax preparers need to have an excellent understanding of tax laws, regulations, and policies to ensure that individuals or businesses comply with them. Additionally, they analyze tax data to determine deductions and credits, prepare and submit tax returns, and aid in resolving tax-related issues.

3. Auditing

Auditing, including internal and external audits, is a critical hard skill for accounting professionals, ensuring that an organization’s financial statements are accurate and reliable. Certified public accountants (CPAs) are often responsible for examining financial records, examining financial statements, and identifying potential risks and frauds to safeguard an organization’s reputation.

4. Risk Management

Risk management is a critical hard skill for finance professionals, responsible for identifying and analyzing financial risks, developing strategies to mitigate potential risks, and implementing risk-management plans. Risk professionals must possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, working with senior leaders to manage their risk portfolios.

5. Investment Analysis

Investment analysis is a crucial hard skill for investment bankers, financial analysts, and portfolio managers, analyzing investment opportunities and trends to identify the most profitable investment options. Investment professionals perform company and industry research, analyze financial statements, and use financial models to forecast investment returns.

6. Financial Planning

Financial planning involves developing and implementing strategies for individuals, businesses, or organizations to achieve their future financial goals. This complex hard skill requires attention to detail, analyzing current and future financial situations, setting realistic objectives, and developing financial plans to meet goals.

7. Cost Accounting

Cost accounting is a hard skill that involves tracking, monitoring, and analyzing the cost of goods or services that a company produces. Cost accountants use management accounting practices to identify where potential cost savings can be achieved and develop methods to optimize resources and reduce costs.

Final Thoughts:

The finance and accounting industry continues to evolve, ensuring that professionals remain up-to-date with the latest industry standards, soft skills, and hard skills required for these roles.

8 Best Hard Skills for Marketing and Advertising Fields

In today’s job market, digital marketing and advertising skills are in high demand. Employers look for professionals who possess a strong set of technical skills to help them achieve their marketing and advertising goals. Here are the best hard skills for marketing and advertising fields that you should include in your resume:

1. SEO and SEM

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing a website’s pages to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERP). Search engine marketing (SEM) involves using paid advertising to increase visibility in SERP. Having knowledge and experience in both SEO and SEM can help businesses get more traffic and increase conversions.

2. Social Media Management

Social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram have become essential in today’s business landscape. Social media managers create and execute social media marketing strategies to increase brand awareness, engagement, and conversions.

3. Content Marketing

Content marketing involves creating and sharing valuable content to attract and retain customers, improve search engine rankings, and increase website traffic. It is a crucial aspect of modern digital marketing that involves creating content through blogs, videos, infographics, and social media posts.

4. Brand Management

Brand management is the process of maintaining, improving, and defending the reputation and image of a brand. Brand managers oversee branding and promotional activities to ensure brand recognition, engagement, and customer loyalty.

5. Market Research

Market research involves analyzing data and gathering insights into customer preferences, interests, and behaviors. It is used to develop and refine marketing strategies, drive product development, and optimize brand messaging.

6. Graphic Design

Graphic designers create visual content for marketing and advertising campaigns. They use design software to create logos, marketing materials, social media graphics, infographics, and other visual elements that help convey brand messaging.

7. Digital Advertising

Digital advertising encompasses a range of digital marketing tactics that use paid advertising to drive traffic, conversions, and revenue. These include display ads, pay-per-click (PPC) ads, and social media advertising.

8. Sales Strategy

Sales strategy involves planning and executing tactics that lead to increased sales and revenue. This includes identifying target markets, developing sales goals, and implementing a sales plan through effective sales tactics.

These are the best hard skills for marketing and advertising fields that you should highlight in your resume. Possessing these skills will demonstrate your expertise in digital marketing and advertising, increasing your chances of landing your dream job.

6 Best Hard Skills for Healthcare Fields

If you’re looking to break into, or further advance in, the healthcare field, it’s crucial to have a solid set of hard skills on your resume. These skills demonstrate your ability to perform the technical and analytical tasks required in a healthcare setting. Here are the six best hard skills to highlight for healthcare jobs:

Medical Terminology

Medical terminology is the foundation of communication in healthcare. It’s essential to have a working knowledge of medical terms in order to understand patient charts, documentation, and conversations with colleagues. Proficiency in medical terminology allows healthcare workers to effectively communicate and provide high-quality patient care.

Patient Care

Patient care is a central focus of the healthcare industry. It’s more than just providing basic medical attention, it’s about understanding and addressing the unique needs of each patient. This hard skill includes everything from wound care and medication administration to patient education and emotional support. Healthcare providers with strong patient care skills facilitate patients in achieving optimal health outcomes.

Clinical Data Analysis

The use of data in healthcare is becoming increasingly important as technology advances. Clinical data analysts are responsible for collecting, processing, and interpreting patient data. These hard skills require technical expertise in various software applications, as well as the ability to analyze large amounts of data and present findings in meaningful ways. This skill is invaluable in healthcare settings to help doctors provide better care to their patients.

Medical Billing and Coding

Medical billing and coding is an essential part of healthcare administration. This hard skill requires knowledge of medical coding systems, insurance procedures, and billing regulations. Healthcare providers and institutions rely on billing and coding professionals to ensure timely reimbursement, accurate record-keeping, and compliance with healthcare regulations.

Healthcare Technology

Advancements in healthcare technology has led to improved patient outcomes and more efficient healthcare operations. Hard skills in healthcare technology include knowing how to operate medical equipment, such as CT and MRI scanners, as well as electronic medical records and telemedicine platforms. These skills also include knowledge of cybersecurity, which is becoming increasingly critical as healthcare institutions rely more heavily on digital systems.

Medical Research

Medical research is a vital component of the healthcare industry. It involves conducting clinical trials, analyzing outcomes, and publishing findings to advance medical knowledge. Medical research skills require an excellent understanding of scientific research methodologies as well as dynamic analytical skills. Soft skills such as patience, persistence, and attention to detail are equally essential in this field.

Highlighting and honing these six hard skills will help you stand out in the competitive healthcare job market. Health organizations and patients expect competent professionals who can provide excellent care and up-to-date technology. These skills add value to healthcare providers from diverse fields, including both clinical and administrative capacities. Demonstrating proficiency in these hard skills on your resume is a great way to make yourself marketable and advance your career.

5 Best Hard Skills for Education Fields

If you’re in the education field, you’re likely familiar with the importance of hard skills. In order to excel in your job and make a difference in your students’ lives, you need specific abilities that allow you to create effective learning experiences. Here are five of the best hard skills for education fields:

Curriculum Design

Curriculum design is an essential hard skill for educators. It involves creating the framework for what will be taught during a course, including the goals, objectives, instructional materials, assessment methods, and evaluation strategies. A good curriculum should be well-organized, engaging, and relevant to the needs and abilities of the students.

Instructional Design

Instructional design is the process of creating effective learning activities and experiences that promote skill development and knowledge retention. It involves selecting appropriate teaching methods, designing lesson plans, developing instructional materials, and assessing student progress. Good instructional design is critical to ensuring that students are able to engage with the material and achieve their learning goals.

Assessment and Evaluation

Assessment and evaluation are essential hard skills for educators. Assessment involves the use of various tools and techniques to measure student learning, while evaluation involves the analysis and interpretation of assessment data. These skills are critical for monitoring student progress, identifying areas where students may be struggling, and making informed decisions about instructional strategies.

Teaching Strategy

Teaching strategy is the process of selecting and implementing the best methods for delivering instruction to students. This can involve everything from using multimedia tools and technologies to creating interactive learning activities. Effective teaching strategy requires a thorough understanding of the subject matter, as well as the needs and abilities of the students.

Classroom Management

Classroom management is a key hard skill for educators. It involves creating a safe and productive learning environment, managing student behavior, and promoting positive interactions between students. Effective classroom management can improve student engagement and achievement, while reducing stress and frustration for both teachers and students.

The education field requires a combination of hard and soft skills to succeed. By developing these five hard skills – curriculum design, instructional design, assessment and evaluation, teaching strategy, and classroom management – you can better meet the needs of your students and achieve success in your career.

4 Best Hard Skills for Legal Fields

If you’re looking to stand out in the competitive and demanding world of legal fields, having a strong set of hard skills is crucial. Here are four of the best hard skills for legal field professionals to cultivate:

Legal Research

Legal research is a foundational skill that every legal professional should excel at. With this skill, you’re able to thoroughly examine legal statutes, case law, and other critical information required in legal proceedings. Legal research skills even come into play when drafting contracts and agreements. Advanced legal research skills might include conducting interviews, investigating companies, and analyzing financial statements. As an expert in legal research, you should be proficient in various database applications, including services like LexisNexis and Westlaw.

Contract Negotiation

This is a skill that can help you become a successful lawyer. Negotiating contracts is an area where legal professionals can shine, as it requires an in-depth understanding of laws, regulations, and contractual obligations. This skill is especially essential when dealing with business transactions, where precise negotiation skills can mean the difference between the success and failure of the deal. Some of the core skills of contract negotiation include listening, analyzing, evaluating, and communicating well.

Litigation Management

Litigation management is one of the most critical skills for legal professionals, especially those seeking positions in litigation-focused law firms. This skill requires a deep understanding of the court system, trial process, document management, and e-discovery procedures. A legal professional with advanced litigation management skills will be able to conduct case investigations, organize legal paperwork, manage witnesses in court, and work with outside vendors, such as expert witnesses and transcription services.

Case Preparation

One of the critical skills for legal professionals is the ability to prepare effective arguments and presentations. Case preparation is a skill that any lawyer should possess without fail. It requires an understanding of the most potent legal strategies, persuasive rhetoric, analytical reasoning, and a sound understanding of the facts, laws, and evidence at hand. Knowledge of presentation software like PowerPoint and visibility into legal case management systems like CaseMap or TimeMap is a must-have skill for legal professionals.

The four hard skills mentioned above will help any legal professional set themselves apart from others. These essential skills increase overall efficiency and accuracy in legal proceedings. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting in the legal field, these skills will help you to sharpen your abilities and advance your career.

6 Best Hard Skills for Human Resources Fields

When it comes to the human resources field, there are specific hard skills that can make you stand out among the rest of the candidates. Hard skills refer to technical abilities that can be measured and quantified, contrasting with soft skills that are more personal traits and difficult to measure. In this section, we’ll discuss the 6 best hard skills for human resources fields that you can highlight on your resume to impress potential employers.

• Employee Relations

Employee relations are an essential aspect of managing human resources. As a human resources employee, you need to be able to communicate effectively with employees to identify concerns and solve any problems in the workplace. This skill includes conflict resolution, problem-solving, and communication expertise. Showcasing your ability to manage employee disputes can help you get noticed in the hiring process.

• Recruitment and Hiring

Finding and hiring the right talent for a business is crucial to its success. This skill involves understanding the job requirements, creating job descriptions, finding potential candidates, and assessing if they are the right fit for the company’s culture and goals. Highlight your expertise in candidate screening and assessing their skills, knowledge, and experience to appeal to a potential employer.

• Performance Management

Performance management is a process that involves monitoring and evaluating employee job performance. This skill requires knowledge of how to set goals, create performance evaluations, and provide feedback. Effective performance management improves productivity and employee morale. Highlighting your experience and success in improving employee performance can make you an invaluable asset to the HR team.

• Employee Benefit Administration

Employee benefit administration involves managing employee benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other perks. This skill requires an understanding of the legal and financial aspects of benefits administration, as well as knowledge of employee benefit trends. Being able to manage and optimize employee benefit programs can create a more satisfied and loyal workforce.

• Training and Development

Training and development is about improving employee knowledge, skills, and abilities. This skill includes creating training programs that are effective, teaching employees new skills, and evaluating their progress. Displaying your ability to develop and implement successful training programs can show potential employers that you’re invested in employee growth and development.

• Labor Law Compliance

Labor law compliance means adhering to federal, state, and local regulations related to the employment of workers. This skill requires an understanding of labor laws and regulations, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act. It also involves maintaining compliance with all regulatory obligations, such as record-keeping and payroll requirements. Being able to navigate and adhere to these laws is critical and can minimize any legal risks for a business.

These six hard skills are critical for anyone seeking to succeed in the human resources field.

6 Best Hard Skills for Project Management Fields

If you are looking to build a successful career in project management, then possessing hard skills is essential. These hard skills can be learned and developed through training and experience, and they can provide significant benefits, such as the ability to manage resources, handle complex tasks, and meet project deadlines.

Here are the six best hard skills that you should have as a project manager:

1. Planning and Budgeting

Planning and budgeting skills are fundamental to project management. As a project manager, you are responsible for developing project plans and budgets to guide your team throughout the project lifecycle. Good planning and budgeting skills can help you create realistic timelines, allocate resources effectively, and ensure that your projects stay within budget constraints.

2. Resource Management

Resource management skills are critical for ensuring that your team has the right resources to complete the project successfully. You must be able to effectively manage a team’s time, skills, energy, and materials to ensure that they complete their assigned tasks on time.

3. Project Lifecycle Management

To be a successful project manager, you must have a deep understanding of the project lifecycle. You should be able to manage a project from start to finish, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closing. You must be able to effectively manage risk, track progress, and make adjustments to ensure that the project is delivered successfully.

4. Risk Assessment and Management

Risk assessment and management skills are essential for project management. You must be able to identify potential risks and develop contingency plans to mitigate them. Good risk management skills can help you anticipate potential problems and address them before they become serious issues.

5. Team Leadership

Team leadership skills are essential for building and managing a successful team. You must be able to inspire, motivate and guide your team toward achieving their objectives. Good team leadership skills can help you build a positive and productive team culture, where team members feel supported and valued.

6. Agile Methodology

Agile methodology is a project management methodology that emphasizes flexibility, adaptability, and collaboration. Being agile means that you can quickly respond to changes in the project, adjust your plans, and work collaboratively with your team to achieve your objectives. Good agile methodology skills can help you stay on top of the project’s progress and pivot when necessary.

Possessing these six best hard skills for project management fields can help you build a successful career in project management. By developing your planning and budgeting, resource management, project lifecycle management, risk assessment and management, team leadership, and agile methodology skills, you can become an effective project manager who consistently delivers successful projects on time and within budget.

Examples of Hard Skills for Entry-Level Jobs

Are you pursuing entry-level jobs but unsure of the hard skills you should highlight on your resume? Look no further! Here are six hard skills that are crucial for entry-level positions across various industries:

1. Customer Service

Customer service is a critical component of any business that interacts with customers. It involves excellent communication skills, the ability to handle difficult situations calmly and professionally, and solve customer problems effectively. Highlight your experience with customer service and any tools or software you used to address customer inquiries.

2. Content Creation

Content creation involves producing written or visual content for various channels such as websites, social media, and email newsletters. Skills such as writing, editing, and graphic design come in handy here. Showcase your experience with creating compelling and engaging content, your proficiency with relevant tools and software, and any published works.

3. Data Entry

Data entry skills are useful in various industries requiring meticulous attention to detail and organizing large volumes of information. Emphasize your speed, accuracy, and experience with relevant software and tools, such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.

4. Microsoft Office Proficiency

Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, is fundamental for most entry-level jobs across various industries, such as administrative roles. Familiarity with these tools and their functions can help you perform tasks such as creating presentations, managing data, and producing accurate documents.

5. Retail Sales

Working in retail sales requires excellent interpersonal skills to build rapport with customers, understanding their needs, and effectively selling products. Highlight your experience with sales metrics, boosting sales, and using relevant tools or software, such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems.

6. Data Recording

Data recording skills involve accurately capturing data using various sources such as surveys, research, or forms. This skill requires a strong attention to detail, organization, and proficiency in relevant data software and tools.

Showcasing your hard skills on your resume can help set you apart from other candidates. Highlighting your experience with these six hard skills for entry-level jobs can make you an ideal candidate for various positions across multiple industries!

How to List Hard Skills on Your Resume

When it comes to creating a resume, hard skills are one of the most important elements to showcase. Hard skills are the specific abilities and knowledge required to perform a particular job. They are often measurable and quantifiable, making them ideal for employers to quickly evaluate a candidate’s potential fit.

But how do you effectively list your hard skills on your resume? Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Choosing Relevant Hard Skills

The first step in listing hard skills is to choose relevant ones for the job you’re applying for. Review the job description and identify the key skills that the employer is looking for. Make sure your hard skills align with those requirements. It’s also important to prioritize the skills you list. Start with the skills that are most relevant and valuable to the position.

Proper Formatting and Placement

There are a few ways you can format and place your hard skills on your resume. Here are some options:

• Skills Section:  Many job seekers choose to create a separate section on their resume dedicated to their hard skills. This allows for easy scanning and quickly identifies the candidate’s abilities. Make sure to group similar skills together and consider using bullet points to increase readability.
• Job Description:  Another option is to work your hard skills into your job descriptions. Instead of just listing your job duties, include the specific skills you used to accomplish them. This shows the employer what you’re capable of and gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your proficiency.
• Summary or Objective Statement:  You can also include your hard skills in your summary or objective statement at the top of your resume. This gives the employer an immediate idea of what you bring to the table.

No matter which formatting option you choose, make sure your hard skills are easy to find and read. You want to make a strong impression on the employer, and highlighting your relevant skills is one way to do that.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

When listing hard skills on your resume, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Listing too many or too few skills:  It’s important to strike a balance when it comes to how many hard skills you list. Listing too many can overwhelm the employer, while listing too few makes it seem like you don’t have the required knowledge.
• Being vague:  Make sure your hard skills are specific and quantifiable. Instead of listing “communication,” list “public speaking” or “technical writing.”
• Being dishonest:  Don’t list hard skills that you don’t actually possess. If you’re hired based on false information, you’re likely to struggle in the role and damage your credibility.

By choosing relevant hard skills, properly formatting and placing them, and avoiding common mistakes, you can effectively showcase your abilities on your resume. This increases your chances of landing the job you want and demonstrating your value to the employer.

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How to List Hard Skills on a Resume | Best Hard Skills & Examples

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What are hard skills?

Examples of hard skills, how to improve hard skills, tips to list hard skills on a resume.

Learning how to list hard skills on your resume can help you establish yourself as a prime candidate. It shows your prospective employer you have the necessary skills to perform all of the position’s responsibilities. If you have a lot of hard skills, you may have difficulty deciding which ones to include in your resume. In this article, we will discuss how to list the best hard skills on your resume.

Hard skills are specified, clearly defined and quantified, work-related skills. Also known as job-specific skills or technical skills, they are teachable abilities you can learn in the classroom, on the job or through books or training materials. As such, they are attainable to anybody who is willing to invest the time and effort to learn them.

When you apply for a job, your potential employer will look at your resume to find out if you have the hard skills required to fill the position. If your resume shows you have the necessary skills, you are more likely to progress to the next stage of the recruitment process.

The types of hard skills you need to possess depend on the job you are applying for. Nevertheless, some hard skills are more sought after than others. 

The following is a list of popular hard skills to list on your resume:

Computer and administrative skills

Popular computer and administrative skills to list on a resume include:

• Windows operating system
• Word processing and editing
• Filing documents
• Typing and typing speed
• Microsoft Office
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Excel
• Outlook Express
• Social media platforms

Technology skills

Popular technical knowledge skills to list on a resume include:

• Systems administration
• Operating systems
• Quality assurance
• Data analytics
• Network administration
• Software development
• ERP systems
• Information security

Sales skills

Popular sales skills to list on a resume include:

• Product development
• Account management
• Contract negotiations
• Opportunity analysis
• Relationship building
• Marketing research
• Customer success
• Client management
• Competitor research
• Sales pipelining

Marketing and design skills

Popular marketing skills to list on a resume include:

• Digital marketing
• Social media marketing
• Graphic design
• Marketing plan development
• Pay-per-click advertising
• Adobe Creative Suite

Art and design skills

Popular art and design skills to list on a resume include:

• Studio arts
• Creative direction
• Gallery management
• Fashion design
• Trend research
• Artistic relationships
• Interior design
• Photography

Finance skills

Popular finance skills to list on a resume include:

• Forecasting
• Bookkeeping
• Accounts payable
• Accounts receivable
• Investment management
• Expense reports
• Financial projections

Fundamental mathematic skills

Popular fundamental mathematical skills to list on a resume include:

• Addition and subtraction
• Calculation of costs and taxes
• Interpretation of easy charts and graphs
• Processing cash transactions

Leadership skills

Popular leadership skills to list on a resume include:

• Team management
• Team building
• Public speaking
• Team restructuring
• Resource allocation
• Media engagements
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Performance reviews
• Hiring and firing

Human Resources (HR) skills

Popular human resource skills to list on a resume include:

• Talent acquisition
• Benefits administration
• Learning and development
• Workforce planning
• Corporate culture
• Compensation plans
• Organizational structures
• Team structures

Business Operation skills

Popular business operation skills to list on a resume include:

• Contract management
• Process improvement
• Business planning
• Partnership agreements
• Change management
• Product roadmapping
• Risk assessments
• Best practice development

Foreign language skills

As the world becomes more global, more companies are looking for bilingual candidates. To be considered bilingual, you should be able to engage in everyday conversation and talk about business situations in another language. For some jobs, you may be required to be fluent enough to communicate in technical terms.

When listing your foreign language skills, include your level of proficiency with the language. Levels of proficiency include beginner, intermediate, conversational and fluent.

Popular foreign language skills to list on a resume include:

Project management skills

Project management skills are useful in a wide range of industries, from construction to healthcare. They enable you to run a project smoothly, meet all the requirements and deadlines and minimize risks and costs, making you a valuable asset to your employer. 

Popular project management skills to list on a resume include:

• Agile methodology
• Waterfall methodology
• Business analysis
• Deliverable management
• Accountability
• Meeting minutes
• Executive updates
• Ability to use project management software
• Certifications such as PMP or PRINCE

Hard skills are abilities you can constantly improve to achieve a higher competency level. Being an expert in a certain skill can make you more valuable and appealing to your potential employer. 

Follow these steps to improve your hard skills:

1. First, practice skills to help develop your ability and knowledge

The development of hard skills requires constant practice. Establish a practice schedule to improve your hard skills and stick to it. Use sample problems to test yourself and regularly evaluate your progress.

2. Second, take classes or get coaching to refine your skills

You can undergo coaching in a variety of ways, from attending classes in a school to enrolling in online courses. During your classes, you should pay attention to your teacher’s instructions and take proper notes. Then, relate what you have learned to real-life situations. Review the lessons and practice every day.

3. Third, seek advice from industry professionals

Industry professionals can give you a better insight into the application of your hard skills in a real working environment. They can teach you tips and tricks beyond the classroom. Establish and maintain relationships with experienced industry professionals in your field. Ask them for feedback on your work and recommendations for improving your skills.

If you have the necessary hard skills for your desired job, you should properly list them on your resume to make a good first impression on your potential employer. 

The following are useful tips for listing your hard skills on your resume:

• Look at the job description section.  Find out which hard skills you should include in your resume. The company will list the required academic qualifications, certificates and technical skills in this section.
• Attach your certificates with your job application.  These documents are proof you possess the hard skills you are mentioning.
• Place your most relevant skills at the top of your resume.  For example, if you are applying for a highly technical job, such as computer programming or engineering, place your most relevant skills at the top.
• Highlight your hard skills in the work experience section of your resume.  This will let your potential employer know how you applied them to produce positive results for your previous employers.
• Mention your hard skills several times.  You can include your hard skills in the summary as well as the work experience section of your resume. Many recruiters use Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) to determine which job candidates have the required hard skills for the job. This software regards hard skills as keywords and ranks applicants according to the number of keywords in their resumes.

50+ Hard Skills For Your Resume [In 2024]

• January 3, 2024
• In Resumes & Cover Letters

Most often, employers look for specific hard skills in a candidate. Thus, highlighting the top hard skills can help you stand out. More importantly, a strong skill set can increase your chances of getting the job. To do this, you need to focus on the most sought-after skills in the job market right now. With that in mind, let us look at the top 10 hard skills employers look for and how to highlight them.

Table of contents

What are hard skills?

• Most in-demand hard skills to enhance your resume
• General hard skills to include on your resume
• Industry-specific hard skills examples to include in resume

Finance and Accounting

Healthcare and nursing, engineering, information technology (it) hard skills for resume, marketing and advertising, sales and customer service, art & design, project management, how to list hard skills on your resume and cover letter.

• Hard skills for resume 
• Hard skills for cover letter

Hard skills are specific abilities, capabilities, and skill sets that an individual can possess and demonstrate in a measured way. These skills are learnable and enable individuals to perform job-specific tasks or are required for a specific job. Hard skills can be gained through experience, training, schooling, apprenticeships, online courses, and certification programs. They typically focus on specific tasks needed to complete a job, such as the use of specific software, tools, or equipment.

Most in-demand hard skills for your resume

In order to effectively highlight your qualifications, it is essential to include the most in-demand hard skills on your resume. Below, you will find a comprehensive list of hard skills that are highly valued across a range of industries, job functions, and career levels. Incorporating these skills into your resume will undoubtedly bolster your chances of standing out to potential employers.

Top 10 hard skills to include on your resume

If you’re concerned about not having specific technical skills that align with a particular role, don’t worry just yet. There are several general hard skills that can still make a significant impact on your resume. These skills demonstrate your abilities and can be valuable across various industries and job functions.  

• Data Analysis: Proficiency in analyzing complex data sets, utilizing statistical techniques, and drawing insightful conclusions.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to effectively plan, execute, and oversee projects, ensuring they are completed within scope, budget, and timeline.
• Quality Assurance (QA) Testing : Ensuring software quality, fixing software flaws, and meeting customer requirements are crucial skills in software development.
• Financial Analysis: Strong analytical skills and knowledge of financial concepts, enabling accurate evaluation of financial performance and identification of investment opportunities.
• Programming Languages: Mastery of programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, or Ruby, which are widely used in software development and data analysis.
• Digital Marketing: Expertise in leveraging various digital marketing channels, including social media, SEO, content marketing, and email marketing, to drive brand awareness and generate leads.
• UX/UI Design: Proficiency in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles, creating visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces for websites and applications.
• Cloud Computing: Familiarity with cloud platforms, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft Azure, and the ability to deploy, manage, and secure cloud-based applications and infrastructure.
• Foreign Language Proficiency: Fluency in a second or multiple languages, which can be valuable in international business settings and for companies with global operations.
• Cybersecurity: Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices, including threat identification, risk assessment, and implementation of protective measures to safeguard digital assets.

Industry-specific hard skills examples to include on your resume

When crafting your resume, it’s essential to include industry-specific hard skills to demonstrate your expertise and suitability for a particular role. Here are some examples of hard skills specific to different industries and job functions:

Employers look for candidates with expertise in financial analysis, budgeting, financial modeling, risk management, and proficiency in accounting software such as Excel or QuickBooks. Demonstrating proficiency in these areas showcases your ability to analyze financial data, create accurate budgets, perform complex financial modeling, and mitigate risks effectively.

• Financial analysis and forecasting
• Budgeting and financial planning
• Risk management and compliance
• Tax preparation and accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP)
• Auditing and financial reporting

In the healthcare and nursing field, possessing the right hard skills is crucial to showcase your expertise on your resume. Employers look for candidates with skills such as patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, medical charting, and proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems.

• Patient care and bedside manner
• Medical terminology and documentation
• Clinical procedures and equipment operation
• Electronic health records (EHR) systems
• Pharmacology and medication administration

Employers seek candidates with skills such as computer-aided design (CAD), technical drawing, mathematical modeling, and proficiency in engineering software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Furthermore, possessing skills in project management, problem-solving, data analysis, and a deep understanding of industry-specific codes and regulations will greatly enhance your value as a candidate.

• CAD and technical drawing
• Project management and planning
• Materials and structures testing
• Electrical circuit design and analysis
• Quality assurance and control

In the fast-paced world of Information Technology (IT), possessing the right hard skills can make a significant difference when crafting your resume. Employers are seeking candidates with expertise in areas such as programming languages, database management, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

• Programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++)
• Database management (e.g., SQL, Oracle, MongoDB)
• Network administration and security
• Systems analysis and troubleshooting
• Web development (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript)

Employers look for candidates skilled in digital marketing, social media management, data analytics, SEO, and content creation. Proficiency in tools like Google Analytics, Adobe Creative Suite, and social media platforms indicates the ability to boost brand awareness, analyze campaigns, optimize online presence, and create engaging content. Market research, campaign management, and copywriting skills are also highly valued.

• Market research and analysis
• Digital marketing (e.g., SEO, SEM, social media advertising)
• Content creation and copywriting
• Brand management and strategy
• Analytics and data interpretation

In sales, emphasize your expertise in sales techniques, negotiation, and closing deals. Proficiency in CRM software, data analysis, and pipeline management are also valuable skills to mention. For customer service, highlight your ability to handle inquiries, resolve conflicts, and provide exceptional service. Showcase your proficiency in using customer support software and your problem-solving skills.

• Relationship building and client management
• Sales techniques and negotiation
• CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Product knowledge and demonstration
• Complaint handling and conflict resolution

Apart from creative positions, art, and design skills are valuable in most jobs. Industry trends often guide the skillset of professional designers. So, the hard skills essential for designers are always changing and evolving. But, some of the most valued design skills are UX design and Adobe Creative Suite.

• UX /UI design
• Responsive design
• Color theory

Project management skills are valuable across most industries. They allow employees to execute large-scale projects without any hiccups. Moreover, employees with project management skills can minimize risks and costs and meet all requirements and deadlines, making them valuable assets.  Some of the key project management skills include agile methodology, scheduling, and deliverable management.

• Project scheduling
• Project planning
• Business analysis
• Project control
• Task management

Remember, the specific hard skills you should include on your resume will depend on the job you are applying for and the industry you are targeting. Tailor your skills section to match the requirements of the position and showcase the skills that are most relevant and valuable to the employer.

When listing hard skills on your resume and cover letter, it’s important to be strategic and concise. Here are some tips to help you effectively showcase your hard skills:

Hard skills for a resume 

To effectively showcase your hard skills on your resume, consider the following tips:

• Create a dedicated skills section : Include a separate section on your resume specifically dedicated to showcasing your hard skills. This section can be placed at the top or bottom of your resume, depending on your preference and the job requirements.
• Tailor the skills section: Review the job description and identify the hard skills that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for. Include those skills in your skills section to demonstrate your qualifications for the role.
• Be specific: Instead of simply listing the hard skills, provide specific examples or achievements that demonstrate your proficiency in each skill. For example, if you have programming skills, mention specific programming languages you’re proficient in and any projects you’ve worked on using those languages.
• Prioritize job-related skills: Organize your skills section by listing your most job-relevant abilities at the beginning. This means placing your technical (hard) skills before your interpersonal (soft) skills. This allows employers to see job-related skills in order of proficiency.
• Use keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description into your skills section. This can help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the attention of hiring managers.
• Highlight certifications or training: If you have obtained any certifications or completed relevant training programs, include them in your skills section. This can provide additional credibility and demonstrate your commitment to learning and professional development.

Hard skills for a cover letter

When highlighting hard skills in your cover letter, consider the following tips:

•   Tailor your cover letter:  Customize your cover letter for each job application to highlight the hard skills that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for. Review the job description and identify the key hard skills the employer is seeking.
• Use bullet points:  In your cover letter, use bullet points to list your hard skills. This makes them stand out and easy to read for the hiring manager. Be specific and provide examples of how you have used these skills in previous roles or projects.
• Demonstrate your achievements:  Instead of simply listing your hard skills, provide concrete examples of how you have applied these skills to achieve results. Highlight specific projects or accomplishments where your hard skills were instrumental.
• Refer to past positions: If you have followed a linear career trajectory and your past experiences directly relate to the job you’re applying for, consider using a position-based cover letter template. This template allows you to focus each body paragraph on one of your past jobs or experiences.
• Use keywords from the job description : Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description into your cover letter. This helps to align your skills with the employer’s requirements and increases the chances of your application being noticed by applicant tracking systems (ATS).

FAQ: Hard skills

Q1: are hard skills more important than soft skills.

The importance of hard skills versus soft skills can indeed vary depending on the job role and industry. In some positions, such as technical or specialized roles, hard skills may be the primary focus and hold greater importance. These roles often require specific technical knowledge, certifications, or expertise that are essential for carrying out the responsibilities of the job.

Q2: How do I develop hard skills?

To develop hard skills, it is important to stay updated with industry trends, technologies, and advancements. Here are some strategies you can employ:

• Continuous learning: Make continuous learning a habit by actively seeking opportunities to expand your knowledge and skill sets. This can include taking formal courses, attending workshops or seminars, or participating in online learning platforms. By staying curious and open to learning, you can acquire new hard skills and stay up to date with industry developments
• Self-study practice : Take initiative in self-study by reading books, articles, and online resources related to your desired hard skills. Experiment with applying your knowledge through personal projects or by volunteering for relevant tasks. Practice is crucial for honing your hard skills and gaining practical experience.

Q3: How many hard skills should I include on my resume?

There is no set number of hard skills you should include on your resume. It’s important to focus on quality over quantity and include the skills that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. Aim to include a mix of technical skills that directly relate to the job requirements.

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Skills to Put on a Resume: 100 Best Examples of Hard & Soft Skills

Hannah Yang

If you’re applying to jobs, you’ll need to craft a resume that showcases your most valuable skills.

Your resume will be a document that represents you throughout the recruitment process, from your initial application to your final interview .

Hiring managers are looking for specific skills on your resume that will demonstrate your ability to succeed in the role.

So how do you choose the right skills to include?

This article will explain the most important skills to include on your resume, and some resume skills examples.

Where Do I Include Skills on My Resume?

Why is it important to include the right resume skills, what’s the difference between technical skills and soft skills, how do i decide which skills to put on my resume, best hard & soft skills for a resume (with examples).

Most resumes are organized into the following sections:

• Contact information
• Resume summary / objective (optional)
• Work experience
• Hobbies / interests (optional)

The purpose of the skills section of your resume is to provide a concise list of the abilities you can offer.

In the skills section, you can mention each of the skills you have that might be relevant to the job, from language fluency to coding abilities.

You can also use a scale to show your level of expertise for each skill (e.g. beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert).

Here’s an example of what that might look like in your skills section:

• Programming languages: C (expert), Java (expert), Python (advanced)
• Leadership skills: people management (expert), Agile methodology (advanced)

But here’s the twist: your key skills should be included throughout the resume, not just in the skills section.

To really impress your hiring manager, you should mention your key skills in your work experience section, along with numbers to back them up.

Show the specific instances you’ve used those skills and how they’ve brought value to your previous employers.

Here’s an example of what that might look like in your work experience section:

• Led an Agile team of 12 software developers to build an innovative music education app using Java and Python

Choosing the right skills to include in your resume is important because employers are looking for specific skills that you’ll need to succeed.

Many companies use ATS (Applicant Tracking System) to screen applicants’ resumes before passing them on to the hiring manager.

The software looks for specific keywords, and if you have those in your skills section, you can get past the screening.

If you don’t, your resume will get discarded without ever being seen by human eyes.

Even if the company still uses a traditional system, the hiring manager will likely only look at your resume for seven seconds before making the decision of whether or not you progress to the next step.

Having the right skills in a prominent position will get you an interview, or maybe even the job.

Technical skills, also known as "hard skills," are skills that you’ve learned through practice and training.

You can measure your proficiency with a technical skill by taking a test or passing a class.

Examples of technical skills include:

• The ability to speak French
• The ability to fix a car engine
• Familiarity with ProWritingAid software

Soft skills are skills that you gain from life experience rather than formal education or work experience, such as communication skills and interpersonal skills.

Soft skills are harder to test, since they’re more qualitative than quantitative.

Examples of soft skills include:

• Problem-solving

As a general rule, you should include more technical skills than soft skills on your resume.

Since soft skills are harder to measure, they tend to make less of an impact on your resume, even if they’re just as important in the workplace.

Anyone can claim that they’re excellent at teamwork, but this skill is hard to confirm or deny in a quantifiable way.

On the other hand, someone who claims they can fix a car engine is more likely to be able to measure that ability, and to back it up with a certification or with experience fixing cars.

You might be tempted to copy and paste the hottest keywords, but that will make your resume look generic at best and inaccurate at worst.

Your goal is to give the hiring managers an accurate picture of what you can do and how your abilities can bring value to the role.

Every skill you include on your resume should have the following three traits:

• It should be relevant to the role you’re applying for
• It should be a skill you’ve demonstrated repeatedly
• It should be a specific skill, not a generic one

Let’s take a closer look at each of these traits.

Choose Resume Skills that Are Relevant to the Role You’re Applying for

You should always tailor your skills to the specific role you’re applying for.

Even if you’re a world-class photographer, that skill won’t make a difference to hiring managers if you’re applying for a job with no photography involved.

So how do you find the job skills that will bring value to the role?

One great place to look for relevant skills to demonstrate is your job description.

Most likely, your job description will mention specific skills that they’d like to see from candidates. Look for keywords and phrases that require specific abilities.

For example, say you’re a graphic designer and the job description you’re looking at includes the following sentence:

The perfect candidate for this job will have experience with Adobe Creative Suite and Dreamweaver. Experience with logo design is a plus.

Looking at this sentence, you can pick out some of the top skills your position needs: Adobe Creative Suite, Dreamweaver, and logo design.

Here’s how that might look in your skills section:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop (expert), Dreamweaver (expert), Illustrator (advanced), InDesign (advanced)
• Art: logo design (expert), color theory (advanced), typography (intermediate)

In addition to looking at the job description you’re applying for, you can also look at the job description for a similar role at a different company.

It will most likely mention other relevant skills that you can consider including.

Another tip is to look at related LinkedIn profiles. LinkedIn is a great resource for useful skills, as many people will list their job skills on their profiles.

Choose Resume Skills that You’ve Demonstrated Repeatedly

Your skills section shouldn’t feel separate from the rest of your resume.

Instead, it should work cohesively with your education and experience sections to highlight the abilities you’ve demonstrated in the past.

Each skill you list should be supported by evidence.

One way to do this is to look through your work experience section and see which skills stand out.

For example, if you led a team project at your past company using Agile methodology, you can consider including Agile methodology (a hard skill) and team leadership (a soft skill) in your skills section.

If you need to narrow down your list, you can rank all your skills as beginner, proficient, advanced, or expert. Prioritize the ones in the advanced or expert categories.

You might be applying to a role that’s different from the roles you’ve had before. In that case, it’s useful to look for transferable skills from your previous experiences.

For example, if you’re applying to a health insurance job and you’ve worked in car insurance before, you can pick out the skills that are related to insurance, not the ones that are related to the transportation industry.

That way, your skills section can help tie your past experiences to your new role.

Choose Resume Skills That Are as Specific as Possible

The last criterion for choosing your job skills is specificity.

Some skills are universal and can apply to almost any role, such as problem-solving skills, communication skills, and familiarity with Microsoft Office.

You can include these if you’d like, but they don’t tell the hiring manager as much as more specific skills do.

For example, "communication skills" is a vague soft skill.

Use ProWritingAid’s Word Explorer to help you make this vague skill more specific. The common 2-word phrase suggestions are particularly useful in this situation.

Instead of "communication skills," you can say "personal communication," "verbal communication," or "mass communication."

Similarly, "programming languages" is a vague hard skill. Instead of "programming languages," you can say "Javascript," "Python," "HTML" or the other specific programming languages you’ve used in the past.

If you’re looking for more skills to include in your skills section, you’re in the right place.

We’ve compiled a list of professional skills for each of the following job sectors:

• Data analysis
• Finance / Accounting
• Software development

Relevant Skills for a Data Analysis Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for a data analysis role:

• SQL and Hive
• Programming languages (R, Python, Scala, Matlab)
• STATA, SPSS, SAS
• Data Mapping
• Entity Relationship Diagrams
• Big Data tools
• Microsoft Visio
• Machine learning

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for a data analysis role:

• Problem-solving skills
• Technical and non-technical communication
• Analytical ability
• Time management
• Attention to detail
• Capacity for innovation

Relevant Skills for a Design Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for a design role:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop
• Dreamweaver
• Infographics
• Color sense & theory
• Photo editing
• Typography: spacing, line height, layout, choosing fonts
• Interactive media design
• Targeting and marketing through visual communications

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for a design role:

• Eye for aesthetics
• Communication
• Active listening
• Persistence
• Storytelling

Relevant Skills for an Education Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for an education role:

• Updated curriculum knowledge
• Foreign languages (Spanish, Mandarin, etc.)
• Research & data analysis
• WebCT or Blackboard Teaching skills
• File management
• Electronic presentation skills
• Video conferencing skills (software like Zoom)
• Educational platforms (software like Elearn)

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for an education role:

• Organization
• Imagination
• Conflict resolution
• Critical thinking

Relevant Skills for a Finance / Accounting Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for a finance role:

• Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
• Enterprise Resource Planning
• Big Data Analysis & SQL
• Know Your Customers (KYC)
• Cognos Analytics (IBM)
• Visual Basic
• Accounting Software
• Cash flow management

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for a finance role:

• Clear communication
• Business knowledge
• Numerical competence

Relevant Skills for a Healthcare Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for a healthcare role:

• Paperwork / record-keeping abilities
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Infection control
• Surgery preparation

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for a healthcare role:

• Patient care and assistance
• Physical endurance
• Flexibility

Relevant Skills for a Management Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for a management role:

• Data management and analytics
• Agile project management
• Six Sigma techniques
• The McKinsey 7s Framework
• Porter’s Five Forces
• Proposal writing

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for a management role:

• Emotional intelligence
• Task delegation
• People management
• Negotiation

Relevant Skills for a Marketing Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for a marketing role:

• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Conversion rate optimization (CRO)
• A/B testing
• HTML & CSS
• Social media and mobile marketing
• Email marketing

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for a marketing role:

• Multitasking

Relevant Skills for a Retail Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for a retail role:

• Loss prevention
• Product knowledge
• Visual merchandising
• Window displays
• Cash registers
• Point of sale (POS) systems

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for a retail role:

• Customer service skills
• Resolving complaints
• Friendliness

Relevant Skills for a Software Development Role

Here are some of the hard skills you could include for a software development role:

• Programming languages (R, Python, Java, Javascript, C)
• Object-oriented design (OOD)
• Software testing and debugging
• Git/Version control (Github, gitlab)
• Graphic User Interfaces (GUI)
• Application Programming Interface (API)
• Content Management Systems (CMS)
• Responsive design principles

Here are some of the soft skills you could include for a software development role:

• Problem solving

The Most In-Demand Technical Skills Right Now

Finally, we’ve also researched the skills that are most in demand right now.

The need for different skills evolves quickly, and the ones employers are looking for have changed a lot over the years.

A 2020 LinkedIn Talent blog survey found that ten of the top technical skills today are:

• Cloud and Distributed Computing
• Statistical Analysis and Data Mining
• Middleware and Integration Software
• Web Architecture and Development Framework
• Software Revision Control Systems
• Data Presentation
• SEO / SEM Marketing
• Mobile Development
• Network and Information Security

If any of these hard and soft skills might be relevant to your role, it could be a great idea to include them on your resume.

Don’t worry, however, if these skills aren’t applicable to the role you’re applying for.

Employers won’t care about skills that aren’t relevant. You should focus on the ones that are most useful for you.

The Most In-Demand Soft Skills Right Now

According to The Ladders , the seven soft skills employers are looking for are:

• Adaptability

Given the pandemic, adaptability is likely to be a key skill. Companies are looking for employees who are flexible and can roll with the punches.

Emotional intelligence includes empathy, motivation, and self-awareness. These are increasingly important in the workplace today.

Mentioning some of these soft skills on your resume could show your hiring manager how well you’d fit into the company culture.

Final Words

There you have it: a complete guide for choosing which skills to include on your resume.

Let us know in the comments if there are any important skills you’d recommend including. Best of luck with your job search!

Want to learn more great business writing hacks? Download this free book now:

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Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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100 Good Skills to Put on a Resume [Complete Guide]

Jeff Gillis 0 Comments

By Jeff Gillis

Updated 6/4/2022.

When you’re adding skills to a resume, you don’t just want to focus on what you’re good at. Instead, relevancy has to be part of the equation. After all, every job you’re trying to land requires a very specific skill set, one that you need to show that you have.

Choosing the skills to put on a resume when you’re applying to a role isn’t something you should do haphazardly. Instead, you want to use the job description, company mission, and company values as a guide, creating a sense of alignment.

Additionally, it never hurts to have a handy list of skills by your side, making it easier to explore your options. So, if you’re on the hunt for good skills to put on a resume, here’s what you need to know.

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills

There are two basic types of skillsets that a job seeker can have and include on their resume: hard skills or soft skills.

Hard skills are the skills or abilities for a resume that are easily quantifiable…that can be learned through classroom work, apprenticeships, or other forms of learning. These include things like operating tools, computer programming, speaking foreign languages, or different kinds of technical prowess.

Soft skills are more subjective and harder to quantify and are often grouped together by what we know as “people skills.” Some examples of soft skills include communication, relationship building, self-awareness, and patience.

Which Skills Are More Important?

The debate rages on about which of these two types of skills is more important.

According to executive consultant and Forbes contributor Naz Beheshti , “…There is an ongoing debate about the relative importance of soft and hard skills that imply a competition between the two. However, they are both necessary and complementary to one another.”

On the one hand, job seekers with proficiency in a specific hard skill may get hired more quickly. Many employers want to hire people that can deliver value with fewer resources (ex., the need for training, etc.), making hard skills their priority.

However, we are also seeing that many hiring managers are choosing to hire candidates with highly developed soft skills.

In the end, as Indeed puts it, “soft skills are necessary to create a positive and functional work environment.” Plus, hiring managers feel that they can always train the candidate in the hard skill that is required to complete the job, but soft skills are often skills that cannot necessarily be taught.

So, what does this mean for you? Mainly that you can’t simply just pick one or the other and cross your fingers. Instead, the best strategy is to take a balanced approach and make sure that your resume contains both hard and soft skills.

How Do You Choose the Skills to List on a Resume?

Here’s the deal; there’s a good chance you know what you’re good at in a professional sense. Often, you can use your experience, duties, training, and education as a guide, giving you a strong foundation. Then, it’s about diving a bit deeper, looking at traits that could help you stand out, and comparing it all to the job description.

By using a simple process, you can make progress faster. Here’s a quick way to get started.

1. Make a List of the Skills You Know You Have

As mentioned above, the easiest way to get a grip on your current skills is to reflect on your academic and professional experiences. Consider the tasks you’ve taken on, the training you’ve completed, and the courses you had in school. In most cases, that’ll give you some solid ideas about your hard skills.

After that, it’s time for soft skills. Here, you want to think of traits or capabilities that help you engage with others and navigate professional relationships. Often, these are reflections of your personality, so use that as a jumping-off point.

2. “Mine” the Job Descriptions for Must-Have Skills

The next step is to take a look at the job description for the position you are applying for and make a list of the required skills it includes. Then, compare it to your capabilities. Are any of the skills on both of the lists you just created? If so, these are must-haves for your resume.

Now, notice if there are any skills on the job description that you don’t have. If there aren’t any, great!

But if there are…don’t panic. There are things you can do, which we’ll dig into shortly.

If you’re dealing with a vague job description, you aren’t stuck either. Here is a link to a ton of job descriptions that can give you an idea of the skills needed.

3. Tailor Your Skills to the Company/Position

As you may have read in our other blog articles, it is always very important to “tailor” your resume to the company and position you want to land. For an in-depth look into how to make that happen, check out our Tailoring Method article. 

If you want a quick overview, the idea is to focus on capabilities the company wants to find. Every job requires a unique skill set, and you want to show you have it. As a result, it is absolutely essential that skills from the job description make an appearance on your resume.

However, you also want to dig deeper. Spend some more time researching the company, including going through all of their various web properties, such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube pages.

Why? Because they will leave clues about the types of people they hire. That gives you more ideas about the best skills to put on a resume to land a job there, particularly when it comes to soft skills you may not find in a job description.

100 Resume Skills Examples

If you’re struggling with coming up with a list of skills based on your past experience, it can be easier if you have existing resume skills lists to work with. You don’t have to think up every possible skill; you can simply review the list and find the matches.

Here is a list of resume skills examples, divided into hard skills and soft skills, that you can use when applying for a job.

Hard Skills for a Resume

• Advanced Bookkeeping
• Appointment Setting
• Automotive Repair
• Cold Calling
• Computer Programming
• Conversion Testing
• Copywriting
• Customer Engagement
• Customer Service
• Data Analysis
• Digital Marketing
• Electrical Engineering
• Environmental Cleanup
• Forklift Operating
• Graphic Design
• Heavy Machinery Operation
• Installation
• Landscaping
• Mathematics
• Medical Coding
• Paid Online Traffic
• Patient Care
• Photo Editing
• Picking and Packing
• Project Management
• Schedule Management
• Search Engine Optimization
• Server Maintenance
• Social Media
• Spanish Fluency
• Statistical Analysis
• Systems Analysis
• Technical Support
• Telecommunications Systems
• Travel Booking
• Video Editing
• Website Design
• Word Processing

Soft Skills for a Resume

• Accountability
• Active Listening
• Adaptability
• Brainstorming
• Business Etiquette
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Conflict Resolution
• Contextualizing
• Critical Thinking
• Decision Making
• Emotional Intelligence
• Flexibility
• Goal-Setting
• Handling Pressure
• Influencing
• Insightfulness
• Interpreting
• Negotiation
• Open-Mindedness
• Organization
• Prioritization
• Problem Solving
• Relationship Building
• Reliability
• Resource Management
• Responsibility
• Self-Confidence
• Strategical Thinking
• Strong Work Ethic
• Time Management

What If I Don’t Have the Required Skill?

Whether you need to possess a specific skill depends on the job and the skill in question. Usually, here’s where you have to be honest with yourself. If the skills required are part of the core competencies of doing the job, you may want to reconsider your application.

For example, if a golf course posts a job posting for a golf pro, you probably shouldn’t apply if you’ve never swung a golf club.

However, you will come across situations where what you bring to the table is close. In this case, moving forward might be okay.

You need to be able to demonstrate, using examples from your past, that you are capable of doing the required skill, even if you haven’t specially done it. So, go over your work history with a fine-tooth comb and try to come up with a few examples of you doing something in the right ballpark.

They are going to ask about it in your interview, so don’t think you can just wing it, and everything will be fine.

Also, many job descriptions have “nice-to-have” skills on the list. If you happen to possess them, great. But if not, don’t assume you shouldn’t apply if you have the must-have skills. In the end, those capabilities aren’t outright requirements, so don’t screen yourself out based on them.

How To List Skills on a Resume

There are a few different schools of thought when it comes to deciding where to put (or how to list) the skills on your resume.

According to our friends over at online resume-builder Zety.com , “…skills are so very, very important that they should show up all over your resume. Not just in the resume skills section.” In other words, it is imperative that there are elements of your skills throughout your resume, including your resume objective/summary and experience sections.

In addition, there isn’t one right answer for where to include your skill section because that depends on the industry, company, and position you’re trying to land. For example, for a job where technical competencies are of the utmost importance, it is often beneficial to list the skills closer to the top of the resume, right underneath the resume objective or resume summary statement.

However, if through your research you determine that the hiring manager will put more weight into your experience, you may want to lead with your experience. Then, put the skills section further down your resume.

At the end of the day, the selection of the skills themselves is the most important thing. After all, most hiring managers will easily find your skill section regardless of where it is on your resume.

What About Skills for My Job Application?

When you’re looking for skills to put on a job application, you do have to treat it a little differently than skills for a resume. Usually, you’re working with a finite amount of space on an application, not just in an overall sense but in each applicable section.

Since that’s the case, you need to lean heavily on the job description. Look for any capabilities that are listed as must-haves or that are repeated through the job ad. Then, make sure those skills are featured prominently in several areas, including in work history descriptions and skills areas.

If you have to answer essay questions, discuss those skills there, too, whenever possible. Use any other relevant capability as a supplement, treating it as supporting information instead of the primary point you’re sharing.

However, if an essay question asks about a skill that’s not in the job description, feel free to dig in a bit. It’s a capability that’s clearly on the hiring manager’s mind, so touch on it occasionally to show you shine in that area.

Putting It All Together

If you were wondering, “What are some good skills to put on a resume?” you should now have a solid answer. The most important thing to remember is to select skills that are relevant to the position you are interviewing for and, more important than that, skills that your company puts a tremendous amount of value in.

Once you get your skills straightened out, you should make sure that the rest of your resume is congruent with the skills you just selected, namely, that your experience shows that you both used those skills in a work environment and developed the skill with on-the-job tasks.

Co-founder and CTO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Jeff is a featured contributor delivering advice on job search, job interviews and career advancement, having published more than 50 pieces of unique content on the site , with his work being featured in top publications such as INC , ZDnet , MSN and more.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Jeff gillis.

Co-founder and CTO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Jeff is a featured contributor delivering advice on job search, job interviews and career advancement, having published more than 50 pieces of unique content on the site , with his work being featured in top publications such as INC , ZDnet , MSN and more. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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101 Essential Skills to Put on a Resume in 2024 [For Most Jobs]

Listing skills on your resume is fairly easy. 

Listing the right skills in the right way is a little bit trickier.  

Are you mentioning the right skills for the job, or are you boring the HR manager with irrelevant information? 

The hiring manager for the software development team couldn’t care less about your expertise in marketing. What they’re dying to know, though, is your skill level in Python and how you get along with the team.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through the process of putting skills on your resume from start to finish. We’ll explain how to identify the right skills and how to list them in a way that catches the hiring manager’s attention!

Here’s what you’re going to learn:

Hard Skills Vs Soft Skills - What’s the Difference?

• Why Should You List Your Skills on a Resume? 
• 8 Best Skills to Put on a Resume 
• How to List Skills on a Resume 
• 120+ Skills to Put on Your Resume (For 10+ Fields)

New to resume-making? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!

Skills are divided into hard skills and soft skills .

To create an effective job application, catch the hiring manager’s attention, and land your next job, you should mention both hard and soft skills in your resume.

But what exactly is the difference?

Hard skills involve the technical knowledge or know-how one can gain through experience, training, or education. For example: 

• Machinery skills. E.g., operating a road roller, pallet-stalker, forklift, etc.
• Software skills. Depending on the field, you need to know how to use different software, such as the Adobe Creative Suite for graphic designers or the Ableton Live Suite if you’re a DJ.
• Tools. Say you’re a digital marketer . You’ll need to know how to use tools like Stethoscope, Google Search Console, Google Analytics, Ahrefs, and the sorts.
• Multilingualism. The more customers you can communicate with, the more valuable you are as an employee. Some sought-after languages today include German, Chinese, Spanish, and Arabic.
• Computer skills . If you’re a web developer, your hard skills will likely include coding languages such as Python, C++, etc. Even if you’re not though, most jobs will require that you have at least some basic computer knowledge in MS Office and G-Suite, emailing and presentations, etc.
• Techniques. E.g. frequency analysis, Crystallization.
• Mathematics. Many professions, such as accounting and finance, require mathematical skills.
• Data analysis. Businesses are always looking for professionals who can gather and analyze data for various stakeholders, which makes data analysis a very in-demand hard skill.

…and just about any field-specific skill. While hard skills are essential to complete tasks in about any job, they’re also teachable and easily measurable.

Soft skills , on the other hand, are attributes and habits that describe how you work individually or with others. They are typically not job-specific but rather transferable skills that indirectly help you adapt to the work environment and company culture. 

Some examples of the most in-demand soft skills include: 

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Organization
• Adaptability

Like hard skills, you can also learn how to develop soft skills, although it’s significantly harder. 

While you can acquire computer skills through a technical course, you’ll need to work much harder to develop, say, your communication skills. 

In the workplace, for example, you’d need to practice active listening , learn how to notice nonverbal cues, and practice your oral communication skills as much as possible.

What’s the Difference Between Hard Skills and Soft Skills

Here are the two main differences between hard skills and soft skills: 

• How you obtain them. You can obtain hard skills through work experience , education, training, and certification. Soft skills, on the other hand, can be gained through life experience, both on and off work.
• How you use them. You apply hard skills directly to the job, whereas soft skills come into play indirectly and may often complement your hard skills. For example, you may be a communicative marketer or an office manager with great leadership qualities.

Why Should You List Skills on Your Resume?

The skills section is one of the 3 most important resume sections , with the other two being work experience and education sections. 

If written correctly, the skills section looks something like this:

By now, you’re probably thinking “ how hard can this be, right? All I have to do is list all my skills and call it a day! ”

Well, not exactly. The process of putting skills on your resume is a bit more nuanced than that, and we’re going to tell you why.

Most companies nowadays use Applicant Tracking Systems to help them go through the hundreds and thousands of resumes they receive every day.

This software scans your resume for keywords relevant to the job you’re applying for, and if it doesn’t find them, the software automatically rejects the resume.

Say, for example, the job you’re applying to requires an Expert level in Java. If you haven’t mentioned Java as a skill on your resume, your resume can automatically get discarded.

In fact, 70%+ of resumes are rejected at this stage, never having even been seen by an HR professional. 

And, even if the company doesn’t use an ATS, there’s a good chance that the HR manager is going to skim through your resume looking for the right skill set.

So, whether you’re doing this for the ATS or the HR, it’s important to mention the right skills .

Below, we’re going to explain just how to do this in the best way possible. 

But first, let’s cover some of the best skills to mention in any resume, regardless of your profession. 

8 Best Skills to Put on a Resume

Every profession requires some role-specific hard skills if you want to do it properly. An accountant, for example, needs to know math to do their job right, just like a photographer needs to know how to use photo editing software like Photoshop. 

In most cases, it’s easy to identify such skills and understand whether you’re qualified enough for the job. 

The right soft skills for a job may be harder to point out, but they’re just as essential in today’s job market - 93% of employers say “ soft skills play a critical role in their decision about whom they want to hire. ” 

To give you an example, if you’re a project manager, you will need to have excellent organizational skills in addition to your project management skills. Or, if you’re a developer, you need to also be an apt problem solver. 

You can find lists of field-related, relevant soft and hard skills later in the article, but for now, here are the top soft and hard skills valued by hiring managers in most professions : 

#1. Communication skills

There are very few, if any, jobs out there that don’t require at least some level of communication skills.

Whether you’re a writer who needs to communicate a message to your readers, a marketing specialist who needs to communicate an advertising campaign to your client, or an office worker who must communicate with a colleague to complete a task, communication skills are vital. 

Communication is a multi-faceted skill that includes several skills, such as: 

• Oral and written communication
• Non-verbal communication
• Active Listening
• Presentation
• Public-speaking
• Negotiation

#2. Computer skills

By 2016, over 70% of US jobs required medium-to-high-level digital skills.  

This means that computer and technical skills are priceless assets even if your job isn’t centered around technology. As such, computer skills are almost always a great addition to any resume.

Here are some valuable computer skills for every professional: 

• Office suites (MS Office, iWork)
• Social media
• Database management
• Web (Internet savviness, basic HTML, CMS)
• Troubleshooting
• Equipment installation and configuration
• Fast Typing

#3. Management skills

Management skills are usually associated with management positions, but in reality, that’s not usually the case. Any type of professional can benefit from strong management skills. 

In a nutshell, management skills involve being able to effectively handle people, resources, and processes, including your time, plans, projects, and so on.

Here are some of the most in-demand management skills: 

• People management
• Project management
• Time management
• Risk management
• Action planning
• Conflict Resolution

#4. Problem-solving skills

Problem-solving means you’re able to identify problems successfully, find the root cause behind them, and come up with creative solutions.

Considering there isn’t a single job where you won’t face problems in one way or another, problem-solving skills are a great asset to have. When it comes to managerial, professional, and technical positions , problem-solving skills are essential. 

Problem-solving is a set of skills that includes: 

• Research skills
• Analytical skills
• Critical thinking
• Decision-making skills
• Attention to detail

#5. Organizational skills

Organizational skills are a set of soft skills that help you keep track of information, materials, and even your time in such a way that you can tackle short and long-term tasks efficiently.

Organizational skills are among the top skills recruiters are looking for in 2022, primarily because they help employees be more productive, save companies time and money, and facilitate a more positive work environment. 

Here is what organizational skills consist of: 

• Physical organization
• Prioritization
• Goal setting

#6. Leadership skills 

Leadership includes both the ability to manage and inspire others. Managers are not always great leaders, but leaders almost always make good managers. 

People who’re good at leading are emotionally intelligent, good communicators, and natural-born influencers. They can motivate others to reach their full potential and work together towards common goals. This makes leadership another great skill to have for many professions out there. 

Some important soft skills related to leadership include: 

• Relationship-building
• Strategic thinking

#7. Customer service skills

A big part of jobs out there involve dealing with customers. 

From customer support representatives to cashiers, customer service skills are a great asset to have in 2024. Particularly, that’s because it encompasses a number of other valuable skills, such as:

• Persuasion skills
• Product knowledge

#8. Interpersonal skills 

Interpersonal skills refer to how well you can understand and get along with other people. 

It goes without saying that they’re extremely useful for team-oriented or customer-facing roles, as a big chunk of the work involves communicating with other people.

Such skills, however, are also useful for roles where you don’t get to interact as much with people.

Take, for example, writers. To be a really good writer, you need to be able to:

• Understand and communicate with your audience
• Collaborate with your publishing team
• Understand what people are like

Just like most other transferable skills on our list, interpersonal skills are multi-faceted. Here is what they consist of: 

How to List Skills on a Resume (And Stand Out)

Now that you have a clear understanding of how important skills are - and how some are more relevant than others - let’s talk about how you should list them on your resume. 

There are several things you need to do to stand out: 

#1. Tailor Your Skills to the Job

Relevance is key; the customer service skills you acquired working as a server during college won’t come in too handy when you start work as, say, a data analyst . 

So, the first thing you should remember is to only list skills that are useful for the job you are applying for . To find out what these skills are, you should scan the job listing.

Job ads usually list a set of requirements or skills they expect a good candidate to have. Make sure you don’t leave any of those out on your resume.

For example, imagine you are applying for a line cook position in a restaurant:

• “Here at ‘ABCD’ we are committed to creating a one-of-a-kind experience for our guests . Our French restaurant is looking for a professional line cook for the summer season to work directly under the supervision of our chef. Responsibilities include prepping and cleaning food, creating and cooking meals, and cleaning up the working area . Impeccable attention to detail in food cooking and presentation is needed.”

The underlined bits in this job description are the role’s responsibilities. By paying a closer look, you can understand that ABCD is looking for someone who:

• Is committed to excellence and is highly professional
• Works well under supervision, and with others
• Can prep, clean, and cook food
• Pays great attention to detail in cooking and presentation

Based on this, some of the skills you should definitely mention in your resume can include teamwork, attention to detail, communication, food prepping, and culinary skills. 

As a given, you wouldn’t mention anything that isn’t directly related to the job. As a line cook, you’re not going to be using a lot of tech, so you wouldn’t include your computer skills in your resume (even though such skills are relevant for a ton of other jobs).

#2. Create a Skills Section

Once you’ve identified all the right skills to add to your resume, create a “Skills” section to list them under. This way, the hiring manager will be able to check whether you have the right skills more easily and the ATS software won’t disqualify your resume. 

Here’s what you should remember while making this section:

• Be specific. “Verbal and written communication” sounds significantly better than “communication.” 
• Sort your skills by relevance. Order your skills based on how critical they are for the role. More important skills go on top, and the nice-to-have ones go on the bottom.
• Don’t lie or exaggerate. It goes without saying that you should never, ever, lie about your skills. The employer will know you lied the moment you have to work on a task that requires that very skill.

#3. Match Each Skill With Your Proficiency Level

For each skill that you list on your resume, use the competencies proficiency scale to show your proficiency level:

• Beginner. You are just starting to learn or have not practiced the skill through experience (usually fresh graduates that only understand concepts through theories or classroom experience).
• Intermediate. You have applied the skill in practice, and require assistance with it on rare or special occasions. You still have room to grow.
• Advanced. You know your stuff! You don’t need help with the skill anymore. You can also teach beginners how to use it.
• Expert. You are a recognized authority on this skill, the go-to person if anyone has any questions. You have consistently proved to be excellent in this skill. You could even write a whole book about it!

#4. Back-Up Your Skills in Other Resume Sections

Listing your skills in a separate section will only get you so far. After all, everyone else is also doing exactly the same thing. 

To take your resume from good to great, you want your most critical skills to “pop” from the get-go and to prove to the hiring manager that you actually possess them.

Here is where the resume summary and work experience sections come in. 

The resume summary is a short, 2-3 sentence-long summary of your resume that, done right, shows hiring managers your strongest points as a candidate the moment they lay eyes on your resume. 

Positioned right under your contact information section , this is the first place where you can mention that you possess one or two of the most role-critical skills listed in the job description. 

Here’s how the resume summary of the line cook example we mentioned above would look in practice: 

• Detail-oriented line cook with over 5 years of experience prepping and cooking over 200 Mediterranean cuisine recipes. Collaborative professional who puts the needs of the team first. In my last position, was able to help the chef handle rush hour work of over 100 tables with 100% accuracy and approval rate from our customers. 

Once you’ve grabbed the hiring manager’s attention by including your top skills on your resume summary, it’s time to prove that you have them . 

The best way to do that? List some accomplishments in your work experience section and explain how utilizing a particular skill helped you achieve them. 

Here’s how that would look like in practice: 

• Prepped and helped cook food for over 500 customers in the past two years, receiving high praise and positive recommendations for the restaurant continuously. 
• Helped restaurant to receive positive reviews for 3 years in a row from Gastronomica magazine for attention to detail and food aesthetics and presentation.

#5. Put Transferable Skills to Use 

If you’re an entry-level candidate or if you’re switching careers , you should definitely put transferable skills to use. Transferable skills are not directly related to the job you are applying to but are still useful, as well as relevant to most jobs. 

Let’s say, for example, that you’re going for a career change from sales to copywriting. You can benefit from listing at least some of the skills acquired in sales in your copywriter resume , such as: 

• Written communication. Both roles involve communication via text. A salesperson needs to send cold emails, while a copywriter has to write newsletter emails.
• Persuasion. A copywriter needs to create copy that drives sales, while a salesperson needs to be persuasive in person.
• Computer skills. Both jobs require some degree of computer knowledge. For a salesperson, that’s using Customer Management Software, while for a copywriter, that’s publishing content online.

150+ Must-Have Skills (for Every Field)

Are you still not sure which skills to mention in your resume? We’ve got you covered.

We compiled a list of some of the most relevant skills on the market in 2024, for all sorts of different fields!

If you happen to possess some of these skills, make sure to mention them in your resume. If not, it’s never too late to learn something new!

#1. Soft Skills 

Soft skills are essential for just about any job out there. While they’re not necessarily critical to doing your job well, they ensure that you get along with your coworkers and foster a positive work environment.

When evaluating two candidates with equal hard skills, the hiring manager is always going to pick the one that has better soft skills.

So, it’s very important to mention your soft skills in your resume.

Here are some of the most in-demand soft skills today:

• Effective communication
• Emotional intelligence
• Conflict management
• Teamwork skills
• Stress management
• Productivity & Organization

#2. Marketing Skills

With new technologies developing faster than ever, it becomes essential to move beyond the basics of traditional marketing. Here are some of the most relevant marketing skills these days, including both cutting-edge online tools, as well as classic marketing skills:

• Data analysis
• Web analytics 
• Email marketing
• Web scraping
• CRO and A/B Testing
• Data visualization & pattern-finding through critical thinking
• Search Engine and Keyword Optimization
• Project/campaign management
• Social media and mobile marketing 
• Paid social media advertisements
• B2B Marketing
• The 4 P-s of Marketing
• Consumer Behavior Drivers
• Brand management
• Copywriting
• Storytelling

#3. Management Skills

As a manager , you need to have the right mix of soft and hard skills.

Below are the management skills needed to not only get the job but to also enhance employee and company productivity in the long run.

• Six Sigma techniques
• The McKinsey 7s Framework
• Porter’s Five Forces
• Emotional Intelligence
• Dealing with work-related stress
• Task delegation
• Technological savviness
• Business Development
• Strategic Management
• Negotiation 
• Proposal writing

#4. Sales Skills

The art of selling has stayed the same despite technological advancements. Humans still strive for contact with other humans. Despite channels of communication becoming digital, communication and empathetic skills take priority in the sales industry. 

A comprehensive must-have skill list for salespeople includes:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
• Cold-calling
• Public speaking
• Lead generation
• Buyer-Responsive selling
• Buyer engagement
• Effective communication and sociability
• Social media/digital communication

#5. Design Skills

Today, knowing the basics of design does not suffice anymore. To get hired as a designer, you must know how to create killer branded content for the web and for social media channels. 

Some of the most important design skills for your resume are:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop
• Dreamweaver
• Infographics
• Photo Editing 
• Typography: spacing, line height, layout, choosing fonts
• Storyboarding
• Targeting and marketing through visual communications
• Logo creation
• Digital printing
• Integration of visual communication in social media platforms
• Attention to detail & aesthetics
• Interactive media design
• Color sense & theory
• Active listening

#6. Basic Technical Skills

These are skills that almost everyone working in an office should know. You can put these skills on your resume if you are applying as a secretary, office clerk, or any other type of office employee.

The basic technical office skills include:

• Microsoft Office Pack: Word, Excel, Access, Publisher, Outlook, Powerpoint
• Filing and paper management
• Bookkeeping through Excel or TurboTax
• Research and data analysis
• Basic knowledge of user interface communication
• Technical writing
• Cloud networking and file sharing

#7. Accounting & Finance Skills

Goodbye, filing by hand. Hello, countless platforms and apps. Accountants and financial specialists should familiarize themselves with these skills in order to have a successful career:

• Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
• Enterprise Resource Planning 
• Big Data Analysis & SQL
• Know Your Customers (KYC)
• Cognos Analytics (IBM)
• Visual Basic
• Accounting Software
• Revenue recognition
• Anti Money Laundering
• Clear communication
• General business knowledge
• Numerical competence

#8. Education Skills

How many times have you witnessed a 50-year-old honorary doctor with three PhDs struggle to play a YouTube video during undergrad or grad school? Teaching methods have evolved, and so have the required skills to be part of the education industry.

Some of the most essential educational skills are:

• Updated curriculum knowledge
• Research & Data analysis
• Educational platforms (software like Elearn)
• Technological & digital literacy

#9. Web Development Skills

It seems like there’s new technology popping up every other second now, a good enough reason for web developers to keep updating their skills. 

That said, if you are proficient in HTML, CSS, and Java, you pretty much have a leg up on the competition. All other skills on this list derive from or build upon the three basic programming languages. You can learn or improve your web development skills here.

• CSS preprocessors
• Graphic User Interfaces (GUI)
• Git/Version control (Github, GitLab)
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Application Programming Interface (API)
• Adobe Photoshop, InDesign
• Content Management Systems (CMS)
• Testing/Debugging
• Responsive design principles

#10. Business Analytics

BAs are very in demand right now by businesses, and for a good reason! They perform an almost magical task of analyzing past and present data to give future predictions. To perform their magic, they need some analytical spells:

• SQL (a must) and Hive (optional)
• Programming language (R, Python, Scala, Matlab)
• STATA, SPSS, SAS 
• Data Mapping
• Entity Relationship Diagrams
• Big Data tools 
• Microsoft Visio
• Agile Business Analysis
• Machine learning 
• System Context Diagrams
• Business Process Modeling
• Technical and non-technical communication

#11. Nursing & Healthcare Skills

More than any other profession, healthcare professionals need to stay constantly updated with new technologies, medicine, and techniques. The skills nursing requires are countless and specific, but the most basic ones boil down to:

• Mathematics
• Patient care and assistance
• Paperwork/record-keeping abilities
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Physical endurance 
• Infection control
• Surgery preparation

Bonus Infographic: Skills to Put on a Resume

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about what skills you should put on your resume (and how)? Check out the answers below:

1. What kind of skills should I include in my resume?

Your resume should include a combination of two types of skills: hard skills and soft skills .

Hard skills involve job-specific skills that are acquired through education, training, or work experience, while soft skills involve personality traits that can be indirectly useful at the workplace and help you adapt to the company culture better.

Depending on your industry, some examples of hard skills you can list on your resume include copywriting, database management, graphic design, multilingualism, public speaking, SEO, etc.

Meanwhile, examples of soft skills are communication, creativity, leadership, teamwork, time management, conflict resolution, etc.  

2. What top skills do employers look for?

The top hard skills recruiters are on the lookout for include blockchain development, SEO, virtual reality development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, business analysis, Java development, affiliate marketing, UX design, machine learning, project management, video production and editing, sales, and business development. 

The top soft skills hiring managers are looking for , on the other hand, are creativity, collaboration, persuasion, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.

3. How can I identify my skills?

Some effective ways to identify your skills before adding them to your resume include:

• Consider your achievements. Did you ever get recognized for a specific achievement? What skills helped you do it? You are probably still skilled in those areas.   
• Ask friends and coworkers. Sometimes, it’s easier for others to recognize the strengths that you don't see. Colleagues can definitely be of help but if you’re fresh into the professional world, former professors and classmates can also give you some insight.

4. Where do skills go on a resume?

Skills go under a separate ‘Skills’ section on a resume, typically placed right below, or on the side, of the work experience section.

That said, you can further prove that you possess the skills you list in this section, by weaving the most relevant skills for the job in other resume sections, such as the resume summary and the work experience sections. 

5. How many skills to include in my resume?

The number of skills to add to your resume depends on the job you’re applying for, as well as your level of expertise and work history.

If you’re a seasoned professional with plenty of work-related skills, you should definitely include them in your resume. Also, if the job you’re applying for requires a number of skills you possess, it’s safe to include them all in your resume. 

As a rule of thumb, listing up to ten skills on your resume is typically a safe choice, as long as they don’t make your resume spill over to page 2 .

6. What are the best skills for a candidate with no experience?

Candidates with no experience and few job-specific skills can benefit from adding transferable skills to their resumes. These are skills that can be applied to many jobs across several industries.

Some examples of good skills for a no-experience resume include communication, organization, problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, work ethic, and computer skills. 

7. What’s the best way to list skills on a resume in 2024?

To really impress with your skills in 2024, don’t just list some random skills under a separate section and call it a day! Instead, make them more credible by:

• Finding out more about the company culture.
• Tailoring your skills to the job description.
• Mentioning the most critical skills on your resume summary or resume objective .
• Using your achievements to explain exactly how you used your skills to your advantage.

Key Takeaways

Let’s sum up everything we’ve learned about putting skills in your resume:

• You must have a section in your resume devoted entirely to your skills. This helps you pass through applicant tracking systems and get noticed by the HR manager.
• The differences between hard skills and soft skills are in the way they are applied (directly vs. indirectly) and the way they are obtained (through education and practice vs. personality traits and experience)
• On your resume, list only skills that are relevant to the job, scan the job listing for must-have skills and list those (if you have them), pair each skill with a responding proficiency level, back up your skills with other resume sections, and mention transferable and universal skills.

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More From Forbes

The top 10 skills to put on a resume in 2024, from research.

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Every two or three years, refresh the skills on your resume or they will quickly become outdated

Are you still listing "Microsoft Office proficiency," "dynamic team-player," or "hard worker" on your resume?

If you've caught yourself agreeing with the above statement, then, chances are, your resume is out of date. That may come as shocking news, but here's what's even more shocking:

Although there are close to nine million job openings in the United States, there are an estimated 6.3 million unemployed , which means there are more jobs than workers—a ratio of 1.4. With such a vast number of opportunities available, it seems incredulous that so many are still out of work, but this can be explained by a multitude of factors, one major factor being the costly skills gap.

Employers, desirous of filling a position, are struggling to hire for their role because the labour market—the job applicants for the position—do not have the required skills, or worst of all, they actually do possess these competencies but fail to effectively demonstrate or make reference to them within their resume and application. Both sides lose in the process, inflation continues to rise, and the situation for job seekers continues to spiral.

It's evident that the workforce is evolving; and so is the skills demand.

Here Are All The Major Allegations Against Sean Diddy Combs

Its contest emerging designers find support at trieste, wwe raw results winners and grades as the rock and cm punk return, skills to include in your resume.

In consideration of this, the World Economic Forum compiled a list of core skills on the rise, gathered from their extensive research survey conducted in 2023. These skills were specifically cited by employers as increasing in priority. This means that if you include these—and examples of where and how you've displayed them, while quantifying your achievements—on your resume, you gain a striking advantage.

The top 10 skills highlighted, which you can put on your resume, are:

1. Creative Thinking

Employers need workers who are willing to think outside the box and are confident enough to voice their ideas and suggestions. While presently, this may not always be welcomed and well received, there appears to be an ongoing shift in leaders who are recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence, and providing safe open spaces for workers to challenge the status quo and input their perspectives. As this shift continues, your creativity will be of high value in the workplace and can be instrumental in ensuring cost-effective and time-efficient solutions, regardless of your specific role.

2. Analytical Thinking

Are you confident with analyzing vast amounts of data from various sources analyzing them to arrive at your own conclusions and make data-driven decisions? If you've applied this skill in previous roles, include examples of this on your resume. What's more, if you've used any specific data analysis tools or have any certifications relating to this skill, you might be able to score more points with the hiring manager.

3. Technological Literacy

Technological literacy refers to the understanding and practical usage of digital tools in an ethical manner. While of course, traditional Microsoft office applications that are commonly used such as Word and PowerPoint have their place, gaining an advanced understanding of Excel, Power BI, or other cutting edge or more recent tools including Microsoft's own Copilot, can help you stand out as a relevant candidate and makes you more of an attractive catch.

4. Curiosity And Lifelong Learning

An attitude of curiosity is very much needed in workers today, because without a continuous desire for lifelong learning, your skill set will become stale and you will be unable to adapt effectively. This means you will hold less value to employers and will be less likely to be promoted or given a pay raise. Curiosity and lifelong learning are elements of the growth mindset, and help you to achieve your full potential.

Update yourself on cutting-edge technology and include the names of these software tools in your ... [+] resume

5. Resilience, Flexibility And Agility

Resilience and flexibility came fifth on the World Economic Forum's list, and LinkedIn's 2024 Most In-Demand Skills report showcased how adaptability (agility) is the "skill of the moment" for 2024, reiterating how valuable this skill-set is. Employers want to see examples of times you've effectively navigated change and persevered through difficulties. What steps did you take to be resilient and agile in your work practices?

6. Systems Thinking

Systems thinking is a unique way to approach problem-solving by assessing how different problems have relationships to each other as part of a wider, interrelated system. It's a holistic approach that considers interdependencies, and can be useful in roles such as project management, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, change management, and leadership in large organizational structures.

7. AI And Big Data

An understanding of AI (artificial intelligence), large language models, and big data (large, complex data sets) can be helpful in enabling employers to tackle one of their biggest challenges for the year ahead—implementing AI within their workflows and products.

8. Motivation And Self-Awareness

Motivation and self awareness are critical skills for remote and hybrid workers, as you will need to have sufficient drive to manage your workload and your time management. You also need to be self-aware enough to recognise where your performance could improve and what steps you can take to cooperate with your employer and enable high performance levels.

Perhaps you might not explicitly mention these skills in your resume, but you could allude to specific examples of where you took initiative through your own self-awareness to undertake training or upskilling. Or you might mention how you manage your workload and prioritize tasks and meetings efficiently.

9. Talent Management

Considering the widening labor and skills gap in 2024, it's no wonder that employers are seeking more professionals with expertise in talent management—not only talent attraction and recruitment, but in talent development, performance management, and continuous training. This is not a skill set restricted to human resources professionals alone. If you want to work in leadership or management, you should, at least broadly, have talent management under your belt.

10. Service Orientation And Customer Service

Coming in at 10th in The World Economic Forum's list of skills on the rise, customer service remains a key concern and priority for employers. Artificial intelligence can replace many of the most basic front-facing customer service roles such as answering FAQs and resolving general inquiries. But building relationships with customers, particularly at the B2B level, remains a skill that robots cannot perform, as this requires deeper levels of understanding, trust, and human expertise.

To adapt to industry and global workplace shifts, employers need professionals like you who are nimble to significant market changes, have an attitude of continuous learning, and improve their skills regularly to stay on trend, so they can be more efficient and productive. They won't know if you have these skills or not unless you show them. Don't take it for granted that you can demonstrate these skills in your interview. Without adequate mention of them at the screening stage, there may be no interview at all.

Talent management is a skill that is in demand, beyond the human resources profession

Still considering whether or not to include "Dynamic team-player" as a skill on your resume?

Better replace it with one of these skills instead.

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The 12 Best Skills to Put on Your Resume (Plus Examples)

S kills can make or break your resume. They should match the jobs you're applying for and show recruiters that you can succeed at their companies.

Sometimes companies will use applicant tracking systems (ATS) that automatically scan resumes and forward the best matches to hiring managers. Whether a human or a computer is looking over your resume, it pays to have a robust set of skills.

Below, we'll cover some skills to put on your resume, the difference between soft and hard skills and the best ways to highlight skills when communicating about your work experience:

The 12 Best Skills to Put on a Resume

Putting the right skills on your resume signals your readiness for the jobs you apply for. Almost anyone can develop these, regardless of professional background—they're huge green flags for recruiters.

1. Adaptability

Change is the only constant in business, according to Mark Cuban . The skills you develop when you start a job may not be relevant in five years, even if you're still in the same position.

Companies want employees who can adapt to changing times. Demonstrating that on your resume shows employers that you're a good long-term investment.

2. Attention to Detail

Anyone can do sloppy work. Having attention to detail means spotting the little mistakes before they become big problems.

Calling out your attention to detail on your resume sets you apart as someone who will sweat the small stuff and pursue excellence in every part of your job.

3. Communication

Virtually every job involves some amount of communication . Are you a software engineer who just wants to code? You still have to talk to clients about their needs.

Eyeballing a management role ? You'll need to successfully communicate with direct reports to give feedback and achieve team goals.

Talking about your communication skills on your resume, including listening, presentation and writing skills, shows you know how to work with others. You can also mention your communication style to make sure you're a good fit for a company's culture.

4. Creativity

The best employees are not just cogs in a machine. They stand out by thinking outside the box and offering creative new solutions to their company's problems.

But creativity doesn't necessarily mean you're artistic. If you're an analyst, it could mean drawing novel conclusions from data. If you're a manager, it could mean finding interesting new ways to engage your team.

Including creativity as a skill on your resume shows employers that you can offer value beyond the job description.

5. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is your ability to find solutions beyond the obvious. Good critical thinkers can get to the "why" behind a problem, anticipate future problems and elevate the quality of work their teams produce.

Putting critical thinking on your resume takes your skills to the next level. It also speaks to your independence—you come up with solutions on your own, rather than relying on others.

6. Customer Service

Many jobs require some sort of customer service element. Salespeople or project managers talk to customers, helping them get exactly what they're looking for. Other workers, like copywriters or data engineers, may still meet with customers to speak to their area of expertise and demonstrate the viability of their company's work.

Don't take customer service skills for granted. They're valuable in almost any position.

7. Digital Skills

Most office jobs require basic computer literacy. Employers expect employees to know how to open computer and phone applications, send emails and sometimes use video call tools like Teams or Zoom . Being digitally literate can mean knowing when to send a quick chat vs. a long email .

These skills are absolutely worth listing on your resume, especially if you have experience with specific software or tools common in your industry.

8. Leadership

Leadership is your ability to get your team to work together toward a shared goal. It's not just important for managers—individual contributors can communicate better if they have strong leadership skills. ICs can also use leadership skills to take charge when their teams are confused and get the job done.

Putting leadership skills on your resume identifies you as someone who can bring order to a complicated workplace. It also sets you up as potential management material —someone worthy of future internal promotions at a company.

9. Organization

Many jobs require you to juggle several tasks. Organization is your ability to keep everything together, even when you have multiple deadlines or you're working for clients with very different expectations.

Highlighting your organizational skills puts you forward as a candidate who can perform the full range of job responsibilities without getting lost.

10. Problem-Solving

Good problem solvers can take projects from point A to point B in the most efficient way possible. They can also spot solutions that aren't obvious, making them invaluable to their employers.

Setting yourself up as a problem-solver makes you an excellent candidate for almost any job since this skill is so widely used.

11. Teamwork

Teamwork is your ability to function well with your immediate coworkers, but also with other teams you may encounter. It's more than just good communication; it includes good social skills and compassion for others.

Listing teamwork as a skill on your resume shows that you're ready to work in a bustling company where you're one part of a bigger whole.

12. Time Management

Many employers want things done yesterday. That's not always possible, but good time managers offer the next best thing: work that's done well and finished as soon as possible.

Introducing yourself as a good time manager shows that you'll finish tasks before they're due. That's something hiring managers love to see.

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills on Your Resume

Hard skills are what you do. Soft skills are how you get it done. Good resumes include both.

Soft Skills for Your Resume

Soft skills are non-technical aspects of work, like being a good communicator or managing your time wisely. They're relevant everywhere.

According to data from LinkedIn, 92 percent of professionals say soft skills matter as much or more than hard skills.

"Soft skills are often what set one candidate apart from another with similar technical qualifications," Dan Schawbel, Managing Partner of Workplace Intelligence, told Newsweek . "Employers look for candidates who not only have the required hard skills but also possess the interpersonal and communication skills necessary to work well with others and fit into the company culture."

The introduction of artificial intelligence in the workplace may only improve the value of soft skills.

"While AI will automate certain tasks and change the nature of work, it will also place a premium on soft skills that are uniquely human," Schawbel said. "Soft skills related to creativity, emotional intelligence, ethics, collaboration, and adaptability will continue to be highly valuable in the AI-augmented workplace, enabling individuals to work alongside AI systems effectively and ethically."

Hard Skills for Your Resume

Hard skills refer to technical knowledge that you can spend months or even years developing. These are the things you learn in specialized degree programs and job training. Connecting a website to a database, operating a complex piece of machinery and balancing a quarterly budget are all hard skills.

Most jobs require certain hard skills. You wouldn't apply to be a video editor without some knowledge of editing software and techniques.

Companies may teach some hard skills on the job. For example, teaching new salespeople how to use their unique customer relationship management (CRM) software. However, most careers require hard skills that you learn elsewhere, either in school, training or an entry-level job .

How to List Skills on Your Resume

There are two sides to listing skills on your resume: the skills you include and how you express them.

Schawbel recommends creating a dedicated "Skills" section on your resume. List hard and soft skills there.

Next, Schawbel says to back up your soft skills with specific examples from your work experience. Did you demonstrate leadership when you took command of a flailing project at your last job? Write that down, using keywords that highlight those skills like "leadership" or "teamwork." Your work experience is evidence of your skills.

Remember that recruiters and hiring managers read hundreds of resumes. You want to present your highlights without going on and on about yourself. Schawbel recommends starting each bullet point in your resume with action verbs to quickly demonstrate your skills to an employer. Use language like:

• "Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to deliver budget analyses."
• "Wrote marketing emails that increased product engagement by 130 percent over six months."
• "Managed construction projects across multiple sites with 15 direct reports."

Stand out by presenting a different version of your resume for each new job you apply for. Tailor your skill list for each new position by looking at the job's duties and responsibilities.

If you're applying for a management position, include your leadership skills and the times you used them. Otherwise, consider leaving those off the resume and highlighting other skills.

Skills Section Examples by Job Type

Here are some examples of possible skill sections for jobs in multiple industries and experience levels. Use these as starting points to think about skills on your resume. However, you should always look at job descriptions to see exactly what skills to include.

Copywriters write content for videos, emails and other marketing collateral. They try to persuade readers or listeners to buy the product or service they're highlighting.

Hard Skills:

• Copywriting
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Social media marketing

Soft Skills:

• Attention to detail

Data Scientist

Data scientists explore massive data sets with advanced mathematics and computer models. They work with business managers to produce actionable insights from raw data.

• Data analysis
• Data visualization
• Machine learning
• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Organization

Nurses perform a range of tasks in hospitals and other health care settings. The exact skills they need depend on their medical subfield and the type of institution they work for.

• Medical knowledge
• Medical technology
• Nursing ethics
• Patient education
• Workplace safety
• Adaptability
• Time management

Project Manager

Project managers organize work across multiple teams. They often bridge the gap between individual contributors and clients or other stakeholders. They keep projects on time and within budget.

• Negotiation
• Project management
• Technical writing

Retail Sales Associate

Retail sales associates sell items, maintain the sales floor and assist customers. This is an entry-level position, but it can be an excellent opportunity to build skills.

• Basic mathematics
• CRM or point of sale (POS) software
• Inventory management
• Customer service

Frequently Asked Questions

Still not sure what skills to put on your resume? Here we tackle some common questions.

How Many Skills Should I Put on My Resume?

You want enough skills on your resume to impress recruiters without wasting their time.

"Aim for a list of 5 to 10 key skills. This allows you to emphasize your most critical qualifications without overwhelming the reader," Schawbel says.

Should I Format My Resume for an ATS?

Don't try to write your resume for a computer. It's a myth that most applications are rejected by automated systems—HR workers read most resumes and make decisions based on their merits.

Make things easier for recruiters by organizing information well on your resume. Include a dedicated skills section and describe your work experience directly and efficiently, with callouts to the skills you've listed.

Should I Change the Skills Section for Each Job Application?

Yes. It's a good idea to write a resume draft and then modify that draft slightly for each new job application.

Be sure to mention skills that appear in the job description. Cut mentions of skills that aren't relevant to the position, so that you don't waste recruiters' time.

What Skills Should I List if I Have No Work Experience?

Without work experience, you still have life and school. Draw up a list of transferable skills you've developed throughout your life and use those on your resume.

You should have several soft skills. If you had a leadership position in school, for example, list leadership, communication and teamwork skills.

Transferable soft skills aren't always obvious, but if you put some thought into your activities you should come up with a good list. For example, practicing a musical instrument alongside school demonstrates good time management, attention to detail and creativity.

Should I Add Certifications or Trainings?

Yes. Certifications and training are outside proof of your competence in skills. They can set you apart from other candidates who don't have that kind of evidence on their resumes.

Can I List Skills That I'm Still Learning?

Yes. Feel free to list skills where you're a beginner.

Some professionals label skills with their experience level, such as "beginner," "intermediate" or "advanced."

You can also describe your experience level in your work experience. For example:

• "Learned the core functions of our company's CRM system."
• "Wrote advanced web applications with JavaScript for five years."

Once you have your resume in good condition, you can start thinking about cover letters . Then you can learn more about finding your next opportunity with our review of the best job search apps .

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