In today’s competitive job market, it’s essential to have a strong resume that stands out. This is where your job skills come into play. Employers review resumes to determine if the candidate has the necessary skills to perform the job successfully. Therefore, you must highlight your skills to increase your chances of landing an interview.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the importance of including job skills on your resume and offer tips on how to choose the best ones to include. We will also provide an overview of the best job skills to include on your resume to help you strengthen your application.
With this information, you’ll be able to create a resume that not only showcases your experience but also your skills, making you more attractive to potential employers.
Let’s get started!
Industry-Specific Skills
When it comes to crafting a resume, it’s important to not only include generic job skills but also industry-specific skills that are relevant to the field you’re applying to. Identifying these skills can be tricky, so here are a few tips to get you started.
Identifying industry-specific skills
One way to identify industry-specific skills is to look at job postings within your desired field. Pay attention to the qualifications and requirements listed and make note of any specific skills or knowledge that are consistently mentioned. Additionally, consider any certifications or licenses that are commonly required within the industry, as these often require specialized skills.
Another option is to research industry associations and review their recommended competencies or skills for professionals in the field. This can provide insight into the skills and knowledge valued within the industry.
Examples of industry-specific skills for specific industries
Here are some examples of industry-specific skills for a few specific industries:
Finance
- Financial analysis and modeling
- Risk management
- Financial reporting and compliance
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g. QuickBooks, SAP)
- Familiarity with investment strategies and markets
- Understanding of tax laws and regulations
Healthcare
- Medical terminology
- Patient care and clinical skills
- Electronic health records (EHR) management
- Knowledge of healthcare laws and regulations
- Familiarity with healthcare software (e.g. Epic, Cerner)
- Experience with HIPAA compliance
Education
- Curriculum development and instruction
- Differentiated instruction strategies
- Classroom management techniques
- Evaluating student progress and adjusting teaching methods accordingly
- Familiarity with educational technology and software (e.g. Blackboard, Canvas)
- Understanding of educational laws and regulations (e.g. IDEA, FERPA)
It’s important to remember that these are just a few examples and that industry-specific skills will vary depending on the specific job and industry. Taking the time to research and identify these skills will help you stand out as a qualified candidate in your desired field.
Transferable Skills
Definition of Transferable Skills
Transferable skills, also known as portable skills, are the abilities and knowledge that can be applied to various job roles and industries. These skills can be developed in one job or field, and then used in a different job or field. Transferable skills are valuable because they allow job seekers to showcase their versatility and adaptability to potential employers.
Examples of Transferable Skills
Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in any job, regardless of the industry or profession. Job seekers who possess strong communication skills are able to clearly and confidently articulate their thoughts and ideas to their colleagues, clients, and customers. This skill includes active listening, negotiation, and public speaking.
Leadership Skills: Leadership skills are not only for managerial positions; they are also valuable in any role that requires problem-solving, decision-making, and inspiration. Job seekers who demonstrate a leadership mindset can motivate and engage their colleagues, foster a positive team atmosphere, and guide solutions that lead to success.
Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to find creative and effective solutions is a sought-after skill in any job. Individuals who have strong problem-solving skills are able to identify problems, analyze information, and develop practical solutions to address issues.
Organizational Skills: Those who have strong organizational skills are able to effectively manage their workload, meet deadlines, and track progress on multiple tasks. This skill also involves attention to detail, prioritization, and time management.
Technology Skills: In today’s digital age, technology skills are becoming increasingly important. Job seekers who are proficient in various software, social media platforms, and online tools are able to work more efficiently, communicate more effectively, and contribute to a workplace’s success.
Transferable skills are advantageous because they indicate that job seekers are adaptable and versatile, regardless of their previous work experiences. Including transferable skills on a resume can help individuals stand out to potential employers and demonstrate that they possess valuable abilities that can be applied to various industries and job roles.
Technical Skills
Technical skills are specific abilities and knowledge required to perform a particular task or role. These skills are usually gained through practical experience or formal education in a specific field. Technical skills are essential for many professions, especially in the technology and engineering industries.
Technical skills are important because they demonstrate expertise and proficiency in a particular area. Employers value technical skills because they are necessary for the successful completion of projects and tasks. Including technical skills on a resume can also demonstrate to hiring managers that an applicant has the necessary qualifications for the job.
Examples of technical skills include:
1. Computer programming
Computer programming involves writing code for software applications or computer systems. Programmers use languages such as Python, Java, and C++ to create programs that can be used for a variety of purposes. Technical skills required for computer programming include logic and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to learn and adapt to new programming languages.
2. Data Analysis
Data analysis involves examining and interpreting data using statistical and analytical tools. Data analysts work with large datasets to identify trends and patterns, and to make informed decisions based on their findings. Technical skills required for data analysis include proficiency in statistical analysis software such as Excel, R, and SAS, as well as knowledge of data visualization tools.
3. Graphic design
Graphic design involves creating visual content for a variety of mediums such as advertisements, websites, and books. Graphic designers use a variety of software tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create logos, images, and other visual elements. Technical skills required for graphic design include an eye for design, proficiency in designing software, and knowledge of typography and color theory.
Technical skills are essential for many professions and are highly valued by employers. Including technical skills on a resume can help demonstrate expertise and proficiency in a particular area and increase an applicant’s chances of landing a job. Examples of technical skills include computer programming, data analysis, and graphic design, among many others.
Soft Skills
What are soft skills and why do they matter?
Soft skills refer to personal attributes that enhance an individual’s interactions, job performance, and career prospects. They are also known as people skills or interpersonal skills, which are distinguished from hard skills. Hard skills are technical, measurable, and teachable abilities, such as a certain programming language or a medical procedure that are relevant to a particular job or industry.
Soft skills, meanwhile, reflect an individual’s personality, behavior, communication style, emotional intelligence, and attitudes towards work and others. They help you work effectively with others, manage your own emotions and reactions, and navigate complex interpersonal situations. Soft skills are transferable from job to job, and they are essential to develop for any career path, regardless of your field or industry.
According to a study by LinkedIn, soft skills such as creativity, persuasion, collaboration, adaptability, and time management have become increasingly important in recent years. These skills help professionals stand out in a crowded job market, complement technical expertise, and contribute to a positive work environment.
Examples of soft skills
Here are some examples of soft skills that are in high demand by employers and should be included on your resume.
Adaptability: The ability to be flexible and resilient in response to changes and challenges. This involves being open to new ideas, taking on new roles, and being comfortable with ambiguity.
Teamwork: The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, communicate effectively, listen actively, share knowledge and resources, and contribute to team productivity and goals.
Time management: The ability to prioritize tasks, set goals and deadlines, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and complete tasks on time while maintaining quality standards.
Leadership: The ability to influence and motivate others, inspire vision and purpose, provide direction and guidance, and foster a positive team culture.
Communication: The ability to express ideas clearly and confidently, listen actively, build rapport, and adapt your style to different audiences and situations.
Critical thinking: The ability to analyze complex problems, consider different perspectives, identify solutions, and make sound decisions based on evidence and logic.
Emotional intelligence: The ability to recognize and manage your own emotions, as well as others’, navigate interpersonal dynamics, and show empathy and compassion.
Soft skills are essential for success in any job or career, and they should be included in your resume or CV. By highlighting your soft skills, you can demonstrate to employers that you possess the qualities and abilities that make you a valuable team member and a strong candidate for the job.
Leadership Skills
Leadership skills are the abilities of an individual to guide, motivate and influence a group towards achieving a common goal. It is the capacity to empower others to achieve success, leading by example and inspiring others to do their best. Effective leadership requires a combination of various skills such as communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and the ability to create and implement plans.
Examples of Leadership Skills
Here are a few examples of leadership skills that can make your resume stand out:
Strategic Planning
Leadership skills and strategic planning are closely interconnected. If you can effectively plan and execute strategies, you can create a clear path forward for your team or organization. Strategic planning involves analyzing the current state of affairs, identifying areas that need improvement, and determining what steps must be taken to reach a specific goal.
Team Management
A leader must have the ability to manage and motivate the members of their team. Team management involves leading by example, establishing clear goals and expectations, delegating tasks, providing feedback, and evaluating performance. Effective team management promotes collaboration, fosters innovation and drives success.
Decision-Making
Leadership requires making tough decisions, often under challenging circumstances. Decision-making involves weighing the options and selecting the best course of action based on the available information. Leaders must be willing to take responsibility for their decisions, have the ability to think critically and make decisions that benefit the team, the organization, and its stakeholders.
Communication
Communication is the foundation of leadership. Effective leaders must be able to communicate their vision, expectations and goals of the organization. Communication involves not only speaking, but also listening, and being able to convey information in a way that ensures that it is understood. Leaders must be able to adapt their communication style to different situations and individuals.
Conflict Resolution
Conflicts are inevitable in any workplace. Leaders with conflict resolution skills can effectively manage and resolve workplace disputes while preserving relationships and improving team morale. Resolving conflicts is essential to maintaining productivity and promoting a positive work environment.
Leadership skills are essential for career success in almost every industry. They enable individuals to work effectively with others towards achieving common goals, drive innovation, and promote growth. By highlighting your leadership skills on your resume, you demonstrate your ability to empower others to achieve success and show that you possess the skills necessary to excel in a leadership role.
Interpersonal Skills
Interpersonal skills refer to the ability to communicate and interact effectively with others. They are crucial in any workplace as they enable you to work collaboratively with colleagues, build relationships with customers, and manage conflicts in a professional manner.
Having good interpersonal skills can make a significant difference in your career success. Employers value candidates who can work well with others, express themselves clearly, and handle difficult situations with ease. Here are some examples of interpersonal skills that will make you stand out from other job seekers:
Active Listening
Active listening involves paying attention to others when they speak, and demonstrating that you are engaged in the conversation. This means making eye contact, showing interest, and asking clarifying questions. Active listening is particularly valuable in fields like sales, customer service, and team management.
Conflict Resolution
Conflict resolution means managing disagreements in an effective manner. It involves acknowledging different viewpoints, finding common ground, and negotiating a solution that works for everyone. Conflict resolution skills are essential for team building, customer service, and management positions.
Empathy
Empathy involves recognizing and understanding someone else’s feelings and perspective. It is essential for building relationships, managing conflicts, and providing excellent customer service. An empathetic person can put themselves in their customers’ or colleagues’ shoes and respond appropriately.
Other essential interpersonal skills include effective communication, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability. Make sure to include these skills on your resume to show your potential employer that you are a well-rounded candidate.
Interpersonal skills are essential in any workplace, and having them will help you build healthy relationships with colleagues, customers, and clients. Take time to develop and highlight these skills in your resume to increase your chances of landing your dream job.
Language Skills
Language skills refer to a person’s ability to speak, read, write and comprehend one or more languages. These skills play a crucial role in today’s globalized world, where cross-border communication has become an integral part of the business world. The ability to speak a second or even third language will give you a strong competitive edge in almost any job.
Apart from improving your communication with clients, colleagues, and partners, language skills can also help you to gain a better understanding of the culture and customs of your collaborators. This can help to build trust and a stronger working relationship, especially when working with colleagues or clients from different countries.
Examples of language skills include fluency in multiple languages, proficiency in a specific language, and basic knowledge of a foreign language. Fluency in multiple languages is a highly sought-after skill in many industries, particularly in global companies, travel and hospitality, and international diplomacy. It means that you can speak, read, write and comprehend at a native or near-native level in two or more languages.
Proficiency in a specific language is also a valuable skill. For example, if you’re applying for a job in a Spanish-speaking country, proficiency in Spanish could be a requirement. Proficiency means that you can speak, read, write and comprehend the language at a level that is comfortable for business communication.
Basic knowledge of a foreign language is another valuable skill. It shows that you have an interest in learning and understanding other cultures, even at a basic level. In some cases, basic knowledge of a foreign language may be enough to establish rapport with a client, colleague or partner.
Language skills are an essential asset to include in your resume. They show that you are a well-rounded candidate with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups of people. Whether you are fluent in multiple languages, proficient in a specific language, or have basic knowledge of a foreign language, showcasing your language skills can give you a competitive edge in almost any job.
Problem-Solving Skills
Problem-solving skills refer to a person’s ability to analyze, evaluate, and devise solutions to complex problems. It involves the application of critical thinking, deductive reasoning, logical reasoning, and creative thinking to arrive at a solution that is effective and efficient.
A candidate with excellent problem-solving skills can help an organization to minimize risks, capitalize on opportunities, and drive innovation, therefore it is a highly valuable skill to include on a resume.
Here are some examples of problem-solving skills:
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking involves the ability to analyze and evaluate information to make informed decisions. Candidates with excellent critical thinking skills can look at problems from all angles, weigh pros and cons, and identify the most effective solution. This skill is particularly important in fields such as law, journalism, and consulting.
Analytical Thinking
Analytical thinking refers to the ability to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. Candidates who excel in analytical thinking can gather and analyze data, interpret trends, and identify patterns that can help them make sound decisions. This skill is particularly important in fields such as finance, engineering, and scientific research.
Innovation
Innovation is the ability to think outside of the box, explore new ideas, and devise creative solutions to complex problems. Candidates who excel in this skill can bring new perspectives to organizations, introduce fresh ideas, and help drive growth and change. This skill is particularly important in fields such as technology, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Problem-solving in a Team
Problem-solving in a team involves the ability to work with others to come up with solutions to complex problems. Candidates who excel in this skill can collaborate with team members, communicate effectively, and contribute to a shared goal. This skill is particularly important in fields such as project management, customer service, and human resources.
Problem-solving skills are critical to success in many roles and industries. Employers are always on the lookout for candidates who can demonstrate a knack for solving complex problems, so including problem-solving skills on a resume can improve the likelihood of being considered for a job opportunity.
Communication Skills
Importance of Communication Skills
Communication is an essential skill in every industry and profession. It is the key to building relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders, which can help in achieving the desired goals and objectives of the organization. Effective communication skills can lead to better teamwork, improved problem-solving, and enhanced productivity. It is, therefore, essential to include communication skills on your resume to showcase your abilities to potential employers.
Examples of Communication Skills
There are several types of communication skills that can be highlighted in a resume. Some of the most critical ones include:
Public Speaking
Public speaking is the ability to communicate effectively with an audience. It encompasses the art of delivering information, ideas, or opinions in a clear and concise manner. Public speaking may involve delivering a presentation, participating in a meeting, or presenting to clients. It requires the speaker to be confident, articulate, and engaging.
Writing
Writing is another essential communication skill that can be valuable in a range of professions. It encompasses the ability to express ideas or information in written form. Writing may include emails, reports, memos, or other forms of business correspondence. A good writer must be able to convey information effectively, use proper grammar and punctuation, and tailor their writing style to the intended audience.
Listening
Listening is an essential communication skill that is often overlooked. It involves actively paying attention to what someone else is saying and processing the information they are communicating. Good listeners are empathetic, attentive, and responsive. In a workplace setting, listening can help individuals develop better relationships with colleagues and clients, facilitate problem-solving, and lead to better outcomes.
Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal communication refers to the use of body language, facial expressions, and gestures to convey meaning. It is an essential aspect of communication in any setting, whether professional or personal. Non-verbal communication can help individuals express emotions, convey attitudes, and communicate more effectively with others.
Organizational Skills
Organizational skills are the ability to effectively manage and prioritize tasks and resources in a systematic and efficient manner. These skills are essential in any workplace, as they contribute to the smooth functioning of an organization and can help individuals achieve their goals efficiently and effectively.
Organizational skills include several important elements such as project management, time management, and multitasking. Project management involves setting clear goals, managing resources, and ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget. A project manager must be organized and able to manage competing priorities, coordinate with team members, and communicate effectively.
Time management is the ability to prioritize tasks and allocate time effectively. A skilled time manager can complete tasks promptly, meet deadlines, and avoid procrastination. Techniques such as creating a to-do list, setting reminders, and prioritizing high-value tasks can help individuals become more organized and productive.
Multitasking is the ability to manage several tasks at once while maintaining focus and productivity. Multitasking can be challenging, but it is a valuable skill in many workplaces. Individuals who are skilled at multitasking can juggle multiple responsibilities, switch between tasks quickly, and manage their time effectively.
Other examples of organizational skills include attention to detail, resource management, and problem-solving skills. Attention to detail is important in many roles, as it allows individuals to spot errors or potential issues before they become problems. Resource management involves managing resources such as materials, budgets, and personnel. Problem-solving skills are essential in any job, as individuals who can solve problems efficiently and effectively can help their organizations save time and money.
Organizational skills are critical for success in any workplace. Employers value individuals who can manage tasks efficiently, prioritize effectively, and maintain productivity in a fast-paced environment. By mastering organizational skills, individuals can improve their performance, achieve their goals, and set themselves apart in a competitive job market.
Additional Skills
As a experienced copywriter and subject matter expert, I know that having additional skills on your resume can make a huge difference. In addition to the technical skills required for a job, having soft skills such as creativity, networking abilities, and emotional intelligence can make you stand out from other candidates.
First and foremost, creativity is an essential skill that is highly valued in many industries. Employers are constantly looking for individuals who can think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. Having creativity can help you excel in fields such as advertising, marketing, graphic design, and product development. It demonstrates that you can bring fresh ideas to the table and provide a unique perspective.
Networking abilities are also crucial in today’s job market. Successful professionals know that building and maintaining strong professional relationships is key to advancing their careers. The ability to network effectively allows you to connect with individuals in your industry, gain valuable insights, and potentially land job opportunities. It shows that you are confident in your communication skills and can effectively build trust and rapport.
Emotional intelligence is another important skill that can boost your resume. This refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions, as well as those of others. Employers highly value candidates who are able to handle difficult situations and work well with others. Emotional intelligence can help you excel in fields such as management, human resources, and customer service. It displays your ability to work collaboratively and manage stress effectively.
Including soft skills such as creativity, networking abilities, and emotional intelligence on your resume can set you apart from other candidates. These skills demonstrate your value as a well-rounded professional who not only has technical expertise but also possesses the ability to work well with others and adapt to changing circumstances.
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