Skills you need to succeed: the best skills to put on your resume

The best skills to put on a resume: what you should add to the skills section

Crafting a standout resume requires a blend of skills that showcase your abilities and make you an attractive candidate. While technical know-how is important, it's often the soft skills that make the biggest difference. Here’s a detailed rundown of the essential skills to include on your resume, and how to list them, to help you stand out from the competition.

What are soft skills and technical skills?

Soft skills

Soft skills are personal attributes and interpersonal abilities that help you interact effectively and harmoniously with others. These skills are crucial for building relationships, managing teams, and navigating the workplace. Examples include communication, emotional intelligence, and teamwork. These are great skills to put on a resume to show your interpersonal strengths.

Technical skills

Technical skills are specific knowledge and abilities required to perform job-related tasks. These skills are often acquired through education, training, or hands-on experience. Examples include computer proficiency, data management, and project management. Highlighting technical skills for a resume can make you stand out as a qualified candidate.

Soft skills

Communication

Effective communication is crucial in any job and is an essential skill for any resume. Being able to clearly articulate your ideas and listen effectively to others helps you collaborate with colleagues, build strong relationships, and convey your thoughts to clients or stakeholders. Whether you’re drafting an email, giving a presentation, or having a one-on-one conversation, good communication skills are key.

Emotional intelligence and resilience

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as those of others and is a special skill that can set your resume apart. High EI helps you navigate workplace dynamics, handle stress, and resolve conflicts effectively. It also enhances your empathy, making you a more compassionate and supportive colleague. Including emotional intelligence in your resume skills section can highlight your ability to work well with others and adapt to various situations.

Adaptability

The ability to adapt to new situations and challenges is a valuable trait. With industries constantly changing and evolving, being flexible and open to new approaches will help you stay relevant. Embrace change, be willing to learn new skills, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.  Adaptability is a great skill to add to your resume to show potential employers that you can handle change and thrive in dynamic environments.

Problem-solving

Every job comes with its share of challenges. Strong problem-solving skills enable you to identify issues, think critically, and come up with effective solutions. This skill not only helps in overcoming obstacles but also in making better decisions that can drive your career forward. Highlighting problem-solving abilities on your resume can demonstrate your capacity to tackle challenges head-on.

Time management

Managing your time efficiently ensures you can meet deadlines and juggle multiple tasks without getting overwhelmed. Prioritize your tasks, break them down into manageable steps, and use tools like calendars and to-do lists to stay organized. Good time management boosts your productivity and reduces stress. Including time management in your resume skills list shows that you can handle your workload effectively.

Teamwork

Working well with others is essential in almost every career. Teamwork involves collaboration, sharing ideas, and supporting your colleagues. By contributing positively to your team, you help create a productive and harmonious work environment, which can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Teamwork is a key skill to list on your resume to highlight your ability to work collaboratively.

Continuous learning

The desire and ability to continually learn new things will keep you competitive in your career. Stay curious, seek out professional development opportunities, and keep up to date with industry trends. Continuous learning not only expands your skill set but also demonstrates your commitment to personal and professional growth. Adding continuous learning to your resume skills section shows that you are proactive about your development.

Technical skills

Computer proficiency

In today's digital age, being proficient with computers is essential. This includes knowledge of software applications like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and industry-specific tools. Highlighting your computer proficiency on your resume can show employers that you are capable of handling digital tasks efficiently.

Data management

Data management skills are valuable in many roles. This includes the ability to organize, store, and analyze data effectively. Whether it's managing customer information, financial records, or project data, showcasing your data management skills can demonstrate your attention to detail and organizational abilities.

Project management

Project management skills involve planning, executing, and overseeing projects to ensure they are completed on time and within budget. Familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum) and tools (e.g., Trello, Asana) can be a significant asset. Highlighting project management skills on your resume can demonstrate your ability to lead and manage projects effectively.

Technical writing

Technical writing involves creating clear and concise documentation, manuals, and reports. This skill is particularly important in fields like engineering, IT, and healthcare. If you have experience in technical writing, be sure to include it on your resume to showcase your ability to communicate complex information effectively.

Customer relationship management (CRM)

Experience with CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) is valuable in roles that involve managing customer interactions and relationships. Highlighting your CRM skills on your resume can show employers that you can effectively manage customer data and improve customer satisfaction.

Financial management

Financial management skills are crucial for roles that involve budgeting, financial planning, and analysis. This includes proficiency with financial software and tools, as well as the ability to interpret financial data. Including financial management skills on your resume can demonstrate your ability to handle financial responsibilities.

Multilingualism

Being proficient in multiple languages is a valuable skill in many roles, especially in global or multicultural environments. Multilingualism can enhance communication with diverse clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. Highlighting your language skills on your resume can show employers that you can effectively engage with a broader audience and navigate different cultural contexts.

Common mistakes when listing skills on a resume

1. Being too vague: Avoid using generic terms like "good communicator" or "team player" without providing context. Be specific about your skills and how you've applied them in your previous roles.

2. Listing irrelevant skills: Tailor your skills section to the job you're applying for. Focus on the skills that are most relevant to the position and avoid listing skills that don't add value to your application.

3. Overloading with buzzwords: While it's important to use keywords from the job description, avoid overloading your resume with buzzwords. Ensure that your skills are backed by concrete examples and achievements.

4. Not providing evidence: Simply listing skills isn't enough. Provide examples of how you've used your skills in your work experience. This can help demonstrate your abilities and make your resume more compelling.

5. Ignoring soft skills: Don't focus solely on technical skills. Soft skills are equally important and can set you apart from other candidates. Make sure to include a balance of both soft and technical skills.

Actionable tips for your resume

1. Match your skills to the job description: Tailor your resume skills section to align with the job description. Highlight the skills that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for.
2. Weave skills into your work experience: Demonstrate how you’ve used your skills in your previous roles. This can provide concrete examples of your abilities in action.
3. Use bullet points and lists: Organize your skills section with bullet points and lists to make it easy for hiring managers to scan and identify your key strengths.

Once your resume is polished with the skills that will help you stand out, don't forget to consider crafting a compelling personal brand statement. This can help you secure that next interview by showcasing your unique value and professional identity.