The skills section of your resume shows employers you have the abilities required to succeed in the role. Often, employers pay special attention to the skills section to determine who should move on to the next step of the hiring process.
Some important types of skills to cover on a RESUME include:
- Active Listening
- Communication
- Computer Skills
- Customer Service
- Interpersonal Skills
- Leadership
- Management Skills
- Problem-Solving
- Time Management
- Transferable Skills
Here are several examples of popular soft and hard skills employers may be seeking:
1. Active listening skills
Active listening is the ability to focus completely on a speaker, understand their message, comprehend the information and respond thoughtfully. Active listeners use verbal and non-verbal techniques to show and keep their attention on the speaker. Developing and using active listening skills can show your colleagues that you engaged and have interest in the project or task at hand.
Related listening skills include:
- Asking questions
- Note-taking
- Organization
- Punctuality
- Verbal/Non-verbal communication
2. Communication skills
Communication skills are the abilities you use when giving and receiving different kinds of information. Some examples include communicating ideas, feelings or what’s happening around you. Communication skills involve listening, speaking, observing and empathizing. Having strong communication skills is important in every industry at every career level.
Related communications skills include:
- Active listening
- Constructive criticism
- Interpersonal communication
- Public speaking
- Verbal/Non-verbal communication
- Written communication
3. Computer skills
Computer skills involve the ability to learn and operate various technology. Hardware skills allow you to physically operate a computer, and can be as simple as knowing how to turn devices on and off. Software skills help you to efficiently use computer programs and applications. There are some software skills that employers may consider as prerequisites to employment, like using spreadsheets or knowing a certain coding language.
Related computer skills include:
- Typing/Word processing
- Fluency in coding languages
- Systems administration
- Spreadsheets
- Email management
4. Customer service skills
Customer service skills are traits and practices that help you address customer needs to create a positive experience. In general, customer service skills rely heavily on problem-solving and communication. Customer service is often considered a “soft skill,” including traits like active listening and reading both verbal and nonverbal cues.
Related customer service skills:
- Active listening
- Empathy
- Interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving
- Reliability
5. Interpersonal skills
Interpersonal skills are traits you rely on when you interact and communicate with others. They cover a variety of scenarios where cooperation is essential. Developing interpersonal skills is important to work efficiently with others, solve problems and lead projects or teams.
Related interpersonal skills include:
- Communication
- Empathy
- Flexibility
- Leadership
- Patience
6. Leadership skills
Leadership skills are skills you use when organizing other people to reach a shared goal. Whether you’re in a management position or leading a project, leadership skills require you to motivate others to complete a series of tasks, often according to a schedule.
Related leadership skills:
- Ability to teach and mentor
- Flexibility
- Risk-taking
- Team building
- Time management
7. Management skills
Managerial skills are qualities that help you govern both tasks and people. A good manager is organized, empathetic and communicates clearly to support a team or project. Managers should also be adept in both soft skills and certain technical skills related to their industry.
Related management skills:
- Decision-making
- Project planning
- Task delegation
- Team communication
- Team leadership
8. Problem-solving skills
Problem-solving skills are qualities that help you determine the source of a problem and quickly find an effective solution. This skill is highly valued in any role for every industry. Solving problems in your role might require certain industry or job-specific technical skills.
Related problem-solving skills:
- Attention to detail
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Patience
- Research
9. Time management skills
Time management skills allow you to complete tasks and projects before deadlines while also maintaining work-life balance. Staying organized can help you allocate your work day to specific tasks by importance. Deeply understanding your individual, team and company goals can provide a starting point when deciding how to manage your time.
Related time management skills:
- Delegating tasks
- Focus
- Goal setting
- Organization
- Prioritization
10. Transferable skills
Transferable skills are qualities that are useful to any employer as you change jobs or careers. Often soft skills, these might include things like flexibility, organization, teamwork or other qualities employers seek in strong candidates. Transferable skills can be used to position your past experience when applying for a new job — especially if it’s in a different industry.
Related transferable skills:
- Ambition
- Creativity
- Empathy
- Leadership
- Teamwork
The best skills to put on a resume vary by job type, career level, education and other factors. For example, the skills most important for a commercial truck driver will differ from those of a marketing manager. Before you apply to any job, take time to review the skills that are most valuable to the employer and tailor your resume based on which of your personal skills fall within their requirements.
The goal of your resume skills list is to show the recruiter or hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the role and will bring defined value to their team. By paying attention to the type of candidate an employer is looking for and making connections to your own strengths, you can quickly stand among the competition.
