examples of hard skills for a resume

The Ultimate Guide to Hard Skills for the Workplace and Your Resume

Your car is making that weird noise again and you want to get it fixed. What are you going to look for in a mechanic? Someone who knows how to diagnose and fix the type of issue you’re facing and has some good reviews showing their past performance, right? You’re not going to leave your car at a computer repair shop, or at a place that only does tire changes, or with a mechanic who says they don’t know what they’re doing but they promise they’re really nice. 

Now apply that to your own job search—employers are looking for people who have the skills to complete the job duties for the role and who can show how they’ve used these skills in the past. These black-and-white, objective skills are known as hard skills, and they’re one of the most important pieces of your background to show off in any job search. 

What are hard skills?

Most in-demand hard skills for 2023, 80+ hard skills to add to your resume, how to put hard skills on your resume.

Simply put, hard skills are the specific knowledge or abilities needed to do a job, says Muse career coach Jennifer Smith , founder of Flourish Careers . Hard skills can include knowing how to use specific tools, platforms, or computer programs as well as how to perform certain tasks and processes needed to do your job.

For example, a designer might need to know how to use Photoshop and design infographics; a financial analyst may be expected to know how to use Microsoft Excel as well as analyze, visualize, and present data; and a music teacher might need to know how to play piano and be familiar with certain teaching methods.

Hard skills are often contrasted with soft skills , which are the qualities and abilities that speak to how a person will do their job and relate to others in their workplace, such as strong work ethic, dependability, empathy, creativity, and communication with coworkers and clients. (Read more about the differences between hard and soft skills .)

So what hard skills are the most important? Which will make it easiest for you to get hired? The answers change all the time and are very specific to the job you’re applying for, but as of May 2022, ZipRecruiter identified these 10 hard skills as the most commonly mentioned across all their job descriptions:

• Customer relationship management (CRM) software
• Management skills
• Sales experience
• Software development
• Software engineering
• Computer science
• Basic life support
• Budget management
• Advanced cardiac life support

An important subset of hard skills are technical skills , which are hard skills that require you to use a specific piece of technology or particular technique. According to O*Net , a site from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these are currently the most in-demand technical skills across all employer job postings:

• Microsoft Office software (Microsoft Excel ranks first, followed by all Office software, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Word)
• Oracle Java
• Amazon Web Services (AWS) software
• SAP software
• Microsoft Azure software
• Microsoft Access
• Atlassian JIRA

If you don’t have any of these in-demand skills, though, that doesn’t mean you’re destined for permanent unemployment. With the exception of Microsoft Word, hard skills are often very specific to your career or job function, so the most in-demand ones at any given time are going to be either very broad (like Microsoft Office or management skills) or reflective of the most in-demand jobs or careers at the time (software development and engineering or healthcare at the moment).

Here’s a longer list of hard skills that you might need in your job divided into categories. Note that many skills could fit into more than one category and that this is far from exhaustive. But it should help you get started thinking about what types of hard skills might be relevant for the kind of job you have or want. 

Read More:  The Right Way to Add Skills to Your Resume in 2023 (With 250+ Example Skills)

Data and analytical skills

Data and analytical skills might be the core of your ability to do your job if you’re in a field like research, data science, or financial analysis. Or they might be how you quantify and evaluate your success and plan for the future if you work in marketing, sales, or any other field where processing information is important.

Some examples are:

• Business analysis
• Customer analysis
• Data analysis
• Data engineering
• Data mining
• Data reporting
• Data presentation
• Data visualization
• Financial analysis
• Forecasting
• Market analysis
• Statistical tests
• SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis
• Web analytics

Read More: No, Analytical Skills Aren’t Just for Analysts—Here’s How to Show Yours Off in a Job Search  

Hard communication skills

Communication skills might be the first thing you think of when naming soft skills—maybe because I mentioned them earlier in the article. But communication skills can be hard skills when they’re very specific tasks and/or require a knowledge base to do them, says Muse career coach Emily Liou , founder of Cultivitae . The ability to speak another language is also considered a hard skill, and it’s one of the few skills you might consider listing no matter what job you apply for.

Some examples of hard communication skills are:

• Academic writing
• Blog writing
• Content writing
• Copywriting
• Editing and proofreading
• Grant writing
• Press Release writing
• Proposal writing
• Research and reporting
• Technical report writing
• Translation
• Transcription

Read More: Why Writing Skills Are Important for Every Job—and How to Improve Yours

Task-oriented skills

These skills describe the tasks you know how to do to fulfill the responsibilities, or perform the function, of your job. Every job requires task-oriented (a.k.a., functional) skills, but which ones you need vary widely.

• A/B testing
• Ability/license to drive a certain type or class of vehicle
• Account management
• Calendaring
• Classroom management
• Conversion rate optimization
• Creating slide decks
• Database administration
• IV insertion
• Lead generation
• Market research
• Recruitment
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Social media management
• Tax preparation
• User experience (UX) research
• Website design

Methodologies

Methodologies are set processes for completing tasks, or a series of tasks, within a job. If a job description mentions that the organization uses a certain methodology, framework, strategy, style, or other set standards or principles to accomplish tasks, it’s worth noting when you have experience in it, even if it’s not one of the job requirements.

• Account-based marketing (ABM)
• Design sprint
• Inbound marketing
• Inquiry-based learning
• Kinesthetic learning
• Project management or software development methodologies (such as Agile, Kanban, Scrum, or Waterfall)
• Style guides—such as AP (Associated Press), APA (American Psychological Association), Chicago, Merriam-Webster, or USGPO (United States Government Publishing Office)

Programming skills/languages

Programming skills—including coding languages—help you build new pieces of technology. They’re a must for anyone in software or web development and related fields, but can also be useful in jobs where you work with tech. For example, if you use a content management system (CMS), knowing HTML might be useful.

• ADA accessible development
• API development
• Application development and scaling
• Version Control

Programs/tools/software-related skills

This category encompasses the programs and applications you have experience using to accomplish tasks or any part of your job (including communicating with colleagues).  Some examples are:

• Accounting software (such as Sage 50 Accounting or QuickBooks)
• Adobe Creative Cloud (After Effects, Dreamweaver, Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop)
• CMSs (such as WordPress, Drupal, or Squarespace)
• Customer relationship management (CRM) software (such as Salesforce, HubSpot, or NetSuite)
• Data software (such as Looker, QlikView, or Tableau)
• Google Analytics or Search Console
• Google Workspace (Docs, Drive, Forms, Meet, Sheets, Slides)
• Learning management systems (such as Blackboard, Canvas, or Google Classroom)
• Microsoft365 (Excel, OneDrive, OneNote, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams, Word)
• Project management and collaboration software (such as Airtable, Asana, Jira, or Trello)
• Social media platforms (such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, or Twitter)
• Video and remote meeting software (such as Zoom, Google Meet, GoToMeeting, or Microsoft Teams)

The goal of your resume is simple: to show potential employers that you’re the right person for a job. And to be the right person, you have to have the right hard skills and show them off on your resume.

1. Choose which hard skills to highlight.

First, you need to figure out which hard skills are most important for a given role. You should always tailor your resume for each job application and emphasize the relevant experiences and abilities for that position. The ultimate source of truth here is always the job description. So give it a very close read. 

“Generally speaking, when analyzing a job description, you will have a sense of what technical skills or domain knowledge is required or preferred in the role,” Liou says. As you read through the job posting, you should highlight any technologies, tasks, or methodologies you come across. They often appear as “required” or “preferred” skills, qualifications, or experience, but you should also note any hard skills you’d need to perform the job duties or responsibilities listed.

If you want additional ideas, you can also talk with or research the LinkedIn profiles of people who have done the job you want and see which hard skills they mention, Smith says. This is especially valuable if you can find people who have held the position you want at the company you want to work for.

When listing software or other technologies, whatever the company mentions in the job description or is widely used in your field is most helpful. But you can also list similar software to show that you have a basis to learn a tool you’ll need. For example, if a company uses Trello for project management and you have experience with Airtable, you can include Airtable on your resume. 

If a program has a wide variety of uses, consider highlighting the specific tasks you can do within it. For example, if a job listing mentions building pivot tables in Excel as a job duty, simply writing “Microsoft Excel” on your resume isn’t enough.

Once you have the list of hard skills a company is looking for when hiring for a given job, note which ones you have: These are the hard skills that you should highlight on your resume. But be honest with yourself. If you can’t talk about how you’ve used a skill and/or how you learned it, you probably shouldn’t list it.

2. Add your hard skills to a skills section. 

Putting your hard skills in a skills section will ensure they’re easily seen by anyone reading your resume. You might place your skills section at the bottom of the page or you might put it before your work experience, depending on your situation. If you’re an entry-level candidate or you’re changing careers, for example, leading with your skills might make it more clear how you’re qualified for the job in question. And in some fields—like product management —skills sections are more often placed at the top of the page.

Most people use a chronological format in which you simply list your skills in your skills section without explanation, though you might consider dividing your skills into categories like “design” or “writing” to make them easier to read.

Here’s an example of how a skills section might look for someone applying for an in-house accounting and payroll position:

• Accounting skills: Budget analysis, cash flow analysis, tax preparation, payroll management, invoice processing
• Technical skills: ADP Workforce Now, QuickBooks, Oracle ERP, Salesforce, Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUP, pivot tables, formulas)
• Language skills: Native Spanish speaker (written and verbal)

3. Show how you’ve used your hard skills.

W ork your hard skills into the bullet points that describe your past experiences—previous jobs, volunteer positions , activities , projects , and more—and highlight the outcomes, Smith says. You should also quantify the use and results of your skills by incorporating numbers whenever possible.

For example, if you wanted to show your experience with SEO and related hard skills, you might write a bullet point like this:

• Updated up to 5 old articles a month per SEO best practices using Google Analytics, Search Console, and SEMrush, resulting in an average UV increase of 25% MoM and approximately 50% of updated articles appearing in the top 5 results for targeted keywords.

You might also list related certifications or online courses and, particularly if you’re early in your career, you could work your hard skills into your education section . 

If a certain hard skill is emphasized in the job description or otherwise seems especially valuable to an employer, you might consider including it in a resume summary or headline as well, Smith says.

4. Don’t forget about the ATS .

As you add hard skills to your resume, keep in mind that it will likely need to pass through an applicant tracking system (ATS) , a program that scans and organizes applications. These systems also make it possible to search large batches of resumes for keywords, and “recruiters will type in specific hard skills to find the best qualified matches,” Liou says. So be sure to phrase your hard skills the same way the job description does—don’t just say you’ve managed social media for a company if they’re looking for someone who’s run a Twitter account, for example.

Whatever field or industry you’re in, hard skills are key to landing your next gig. After all, they show employers that you can actually do the job they’re hiring for.

50 Examples of Hard Skills To Put On Your Resume

By Christina Colclough

Last updated: April 25, 2024

While everyone is busy buzzing about soft skills these days, hard skills have not taken a back seat. Behind every role and industry, a core set of specialized abilities is just as important.

Recently, I pieced together a comprehensive guide on good skills to put on a resume. But today, I want to compile a list of hard skills as well as explain what they are, why they matter, and how to showcase them on your resume. So, buckle up and keep reading!

In this article:

What are hard skills .

Hard skills, plain and simple, are the specific abilities and know-how needed to get a job done. They’re the hands-on, technical side of things – the concrete skills you bring to the table.

These skills are very job-specific. A computer programmer needs to know coding languages. A chef needs to master food preparation techniques. An accountant needs expertise in financial reporting software and tax laws. You get the picture.

Why are hard skills so important? At the end of the day, you’re hired to deliver results through applying your skills on the job. Employers need people who can walk the walk, not just talk the talk.

Soft skills are harder to define and evaluate. Meanwhile, hard skills signal someone’s readiness for a position’s key duties.

Hard skills are often the first things recruiters look for on a resume. They allow an easy apples-to-apples comparison between candidates. Recruiters can objectively assess who meets the core prerequisites. Many places even require candidates to pass skills tests during the process to prove their capabilities.

Common Categories of Hard Skills to Put on a Resume

There are countless hard skills out there tied to different roles and industries. However, we can group them into several major categories.

Data Analytical Skills

In our data-driven world, quantitative and analytical abilities are invaluable assets. Employers need people adept at collecting, manipulating, and extracting insights from data sets. These hard skills allow you to apply reasoning and find meaningful patterns.

Key skills in this category include:

• Data mining
• Statistical analysis
• Programming languages like SQL, Python, R
• Data visualization tools like Tableau
• Machine learning and AI technologies

Financial Skills

For roles dealing with money management, specialized financial expertise is a must-have. Organizations depend on professionals who understand complex regulations. They also need to prepare reports, forecast trends, and ensure fiscal responsibility.

If numbers and bottom lines are part of your work duties, these hard skills will serve you well:

• Accounting and bookkeeping
• Financial modeling and analysis
• Taxation laws and compliance
• Risk assessment and auditing
• Enterprise resource planning ( ERP ) systems

Marketing Skills

Today, every business needs talented marketers to engage customers and drive growth. They need to combine creativity with tactical implementation across different channels. 

To thrive in marketing roles, you’ll want to develop specific hard skills like:

• Content creation (copywriting, video production, etc.)
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Digital advertising and analytics
• Social media management tools
• User experience (UX) design

Communication Skills

It’s often considered a “soft skill”. But many things like technical writing and documentation take real hands-on ability. Companies always need people who can take complex topics and break them down in an easy-to-digest way.

Key communication hard skills include:

• Technical/instructional writing
• Copywriting and editing
• Journalism and media production
• Translation services
• Visual design and data presentation

Computer Skills

Most jobs today require using some kind of digital tool or software. To get work done, you need a solid grip on the technical applications for your role and industry. And with technology always evolving, updating your software know-how is a must.

Important software-related hard skills span areas like:

• Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure)
• Business software (CRM, ERP)
• Productivity apps (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace)
• Web and mobile development
• Design programs (Adobe Creative Cloud)

Language Skills

For businesses going global, being multilingual is a precious hard skill. It allows you to communicate directly in someone’s native language. This way, you can connect in ways automatic translation can’t match.

Foreign language skills unlock new opportunities, whether Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, French, Hindi, Russian, Portuguese, or even sign language.

Programming Skills

More and more, software is taking over all industries and aspects of our lives. Even non-technical roles increasingly benefit from coding abilities.

Key programming hard skills include:

• Programming languages (Python, Java, C++, etc.)
• Web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
• Mobile app development (iOS, Android)
• Database management and querying
• Software testing and debugging

Project Management Skills

Companies live and die by their ability to execute major projects and initiatives. That’s why professionals with stellar project management abilities are so valued. They have the vital skills to plan, organize, and steer complex cross-functional efforts to successful completion.

Some core project management skills:

• Methodologies (Agile, Scrum, Waterfall)
• Task scheduling and timeline management
• Resource allocation and budgeting
• Risk assessment and mitigation
• PM tools (MS Project, Jira, Smartsheet)

What Are Some Hard Skills For Different Roles?

Different roles need different specialized hard skills to tackle their day-to-day responsibilities. Here’s a rundown of typical must-have hard skills for some common positions.

Accountants

These financial professionals live and breathe numbers, figures, and fiscal data. Their core role is to analyze and report on an organization’s financial performance and compliance.

Key accounting hard skills include:

• Accounting principles and standards (GAAP, IFRS)
• Financial reporting software (QuickBooks, FreshBooks)
• Forecasting and auditing procedures
• Taxation regulations and laws
• Data analysis and visualization

Social Media Marketers

Companies rely on these people to build brand awareness and connect with customers online. These savvy professionals blend creativity with data-driven tactics across multiple platforms. 

For social media roles, you’ll want skills like:

• Content creation (copy, graphics, video)
• Channel management (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.)
• Social media analytics and advertising
• SEO and digital marketing
• Design and multimedia tools

Customer Services Representatives

Whether via phone, chat, or in-person, customer service reps are the face of a company to its clients. They field inquiries, troubleshoot issues, and ensure satisfaction daily.

Most sought-after customer service skills include:

• CRM and ticketing systems
• Product/service expertise
• Call handling and familiarity with IVR
• Billing systems and payment processing
• Problem-solving and PC proficiency

Web Developers

Web developers are the architects and builders of our digital world. Pursuing a web dev role requires job seekers to master an array of technical skills:

• Front-end languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
• Back-end languages (Python, Java, Ruby, PHP, etc.)
• Frameworks and libraries (React, Angular, Django, Node.js, etc.)
• Database management (SQL, MongoDB, etc.)
• Cloud and deployment tools

SEO Specialists

A large part of business now happens online. Companies need someone to gain visibility in those all-important search results. These digital marketers combine technical and creative skills to drive qualified traffic.

The top skills for SEO roles are:

• Search engine algorithms and ranking factors
• On-page optimization
• Link-building and off-page tactics
• Data analytics and rank-tracking software
• Content marketing and copywriting

Graphic Designers

They are the creative masterminds behind the visuals that grab our attention. Their hard skills bring branding and messaging to life through eye-catching graphics.

Here is a list of hard skills for the graphic design job:

• Design software (Adobe Creative Cloud)
• Typography and layout principles
• Photo editing and vector illustration
• Printing and color management
• UX/UI design for digital interfaces

Video Editors

Video content is exploding across platforms. Editors are in hot demand to stitch together polished final cuts. These production pros take raw footage and transform it into compelling stories.

Here are some hard skills for applying to this role:

• Video editing tools (Premiere Pro, Final Cut)
• Motion graphics and visual effects
• Color grading and audio mixing
• Screenwriting and storyboarding
• Encoding for web/mobile delivery

Machine Learning Researchers

AI is taking the world by storm, driving innovation across industries. At the forefront are ML researchers pioneering this cutting-edge field by mastering hard skills such as:

• Programming (Python, R)
• Algorithms and data structures
• Statistical modeling and analysis
• Neural networks and deep learning
• Big data tools and frameworks

Copywriters

Crafting compelling content is an art in itself. Copywriters are the wordsmiths behind those catchy taglines, product descriptions, and marketing materials that reel us in.

To thrive in this role, you’ll need skills like:

• Writing and editorial skills across different styles
• Proofreading and attention to detail
• Understanding branding and messaging
• Basic design software for layouts
• Research and ideation abilities

Security Professionals

With cyber threats on the rise, companies rely on security engineers to safeguard their digital assets and data. These tech experts build robust defenses by applying specialized hard skills such as:

• Network and system administration
• Firewalls, antiviruses, and threat detection
• Cryptography and encryption
• Ethical hacking and penetration testing
• Compliance standards like CISSP, CISM

How to Include Hard Skills on a Resume

When showcasing your hard skills on your resume, do so in a way that grabs the attention of the hiring manager and proves your qualifications for the job. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

Select the Right Hard Skills to Spotlight

This depends entirely on the specific role and company. Your goal is to present a precise match between their needs and your expertise. Don’t bury the hiring manager under a laundry list. Only focus on the handful of hard skills that directly prove you’re cut out for this job.

• Start by carefully reviewing the job description. Identify the core hard skills and qualifications mentioned.
• Cross-reference these with the skills being emphasized in other similar job listings. You can even look for profiles of people currently in those roles on LinkedIn to see what hard skills they’re pushing.
• Once you pinpoint the most relevant and desired skills for that opportunity, make those your top focus.

Put Them in The Skills Section

With your high-priority hard skills identified, it’s time to give them a dedicated spotlight on your resume. Most people include a straightforward “Skills” or “Core Competencies” section to lay these out.

Group related hard skills together under subheadings for easier reading. If you’ve got certifications or licenses, definitely mention them too. They provide third-party proof of your skills in those areas. Use consistent formatting and clear descriptions to ensure they’re easy to scan.

Here are two examples of how to include hard skills in dedicated sections:

Web Developer

• Programming languages : HTML, CSS, JavaScript, TypeScript, Python
• Frameworks : Node, React, Django, FastAPI

Digital Marketing

• Social media platforms : Facebook Ads, YouTube Ads, Instagram Ads
• Email marketing tools : Mailchimp, Marketo
• Analytics tools : Google Analytics, SEMrush
• Content creation : Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)

Use Your Experience Descriptions

Don’t just list your previous job duties and responsibilities. Talk about how you have used your skills to achieve impressive results. This will give a clearer picture of your exact technical competencies in action.

Here are some good examples you can follow:

• Implemented data-driven marketing strategies utilizing platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads, leading to a 30% increase in conversion rates within three months.
• Developed a scalable e-commerce application using Django, integrating a complex SQL database system that handled over 10,000 transactions daily. This contributed to a 40% boost in client transaction efficiency and reduced downtime by 30%.

Put Them In The Opening Summary and Headline

You may even want to mention certain hard skills that are absolute musts for the target role upfront. This introductory paragraph is the first thing a reviewer sees. You can strategically name-drop vital skills here, so they definitely won’t be missed.

• Highly adept Data Analyst with over 5 years of in-depth experience in data interpretation and analysis. Proficient in using advanced Excel functions, SQL, and Tableau to transform raw data into actionable insights that have driven company growth by 20% over three years.

Just don’t go overboard. A few precise, hard skills that quickly communicate your key value and fit for the role are enough. Leave the full comprehensive lists for later on.

Similarly, you might choose to add a core hard skill into the actual title or headline of your resume like this:

• Data Scientist with 5+ Years of Experience Specializing in Machine Learning and Large-Scale Data Analysis

Little tactics like this stick your prized hard skills into a hiring manager’s mind right off the bat. Keep in mind that you’re only spotlighting hard skills that are legitimately essential to the specific job.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i learn hard skills.

Dive into online courses, workshops, or boot camps that specialize in the skills you’re after. Don’t shy away from practicing these skills in real-world projects or internships. Nothing beats hands-on experience.

What Hard Skills Are In Demand These Days?

Right now, the job market is hot for tech-savvy skills like data analytics, software development, and digital marketing. But let’s not overlook the classics like project management and financial forecasting. Tailoring your skill set based on what’s trending can seriously up your game.

Is Writing a Hard or Soft Skill?

This one is a bit tricky. It morphs between hard and soft depending on what you’re penning down and where you’re applying them. For general communication, they lean towards soft skills. But, if you’re drafting technical manuals or crunching data into reports, that’s hard skills territory.

You might also like: 10+ Good Skills To Put On A Resume 9 Hobbies and Interests to Write on Your Resume 350 Strong Action Verbs For A Resume How Long Should A Resume Be? Difference Between Resume And CV How To Add A Resume To LinkedIn

At the end of the day, hiring managers need to see clear evidence that you possess the core hard skills for a role. That’s what hard skills for resumes are all about – marketing yourself as the ideal skilled candidate. I hope our chat about hard skills helps you shine in your next job application . Best of luck landing that next opportunity.

Christina J. Colclough

Dr Christina J. Colclough is an expert on The Future World of Work and the politics of digital technology advocating globally for the importance of the workers’ voice. She has extensive regional and global labour movement experience, is a sought-after keynote speaker, coach, and strategist advising progressive governments and worker organisations.

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100+ Hard Skills To Boost Your Resume [Technical Skills, Examples, & More]

3 key takeaways

• Hard skills are technical abilities you need to perform specific tasks.
• There are 100+ examples of hard skills across industries, roles, and experience levels you can leverage.
• Teal's Resume Builder can help you optimize your resume with the best hard skills for a job.

Hard skills are the technical skills and specialized knowledge necessary for performing specific tasks. Unlike soft skills (which are more about personality traits), hard skills are usually teachable and measurable.

But what's the most strategic way to make sure they stand out on your resume? And how do you know the best hard skills for a resume that'll make you the ideal candidate for a job?

Struggling to add the right hard skills to your resume? Sign up for Teal today .

What are hard skills?

Hard skills refer to practical abilities. They're directly linked to your capacity 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 specific hard skills are often described in detail in the job description.

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; you either have a specific skill or you don't (and unlike soft skills, your level of expertise 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 an important part of professional growth.

How do hard skills differ from soft skills?

Traditionally, skills are categorized into two types: hard and soft skills. Resume soft skills highlight more abstract or interpersonal skills—like how well you work with others, while hard skills are more tangible, quantifiable, and directly related to job functions or tasks.

Soft skills often include abilities like:

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

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.

What are technical skills?

Technical skills are hard skills. They 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

List of technical skills

• 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

Are technical skills also hard skills?

Technical skills fall under the category of hard skills. These are specific abilities acquired through education or training (like coding, data analysis, and using specialized software). Emphasizing these skills on your resume can highlight your technical expertise, demonstrating your capability to handle job-specific tasks and making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

How to learn hard skills

Learning hard skills is a strategic investment in your career.

These skills can be acquired through various means, but the key is to find the learning method that best fits your career goals and current circumstances.

On-the-job training

One of the most effective ways to learn hard skills is through on-the-job training. Gaining hands-on experience allows you to apply what you learn in real-world scenarios—deepening your understanding and proficiency.

Many employers offer training programs or mentorship opportunities to help you develop these skills. Whether it's tackling new software or learning advanced technical procedures, the experience you gain on the job is a great way to learn hard skills.

Certifications for hard skills

Certifications strengthen your career. They're a tangible testament to your skillset, expertise, and dedication to continuous learning.

Different industries value various certifications that highlight diverse hard skills, boosting your credibility and opening up new career opportunities. Consider pursuing certifications in areas relevant to your field, such as project management, IT, or specialized software, to enhance your skill set and marketability.

Best hard skills to put on a resume

Showcasing the right hard skills on your resume can make a significant difference in catching the eye of potential employers.

These skills highlight your technical abilities and demonstrate your capability to perform specific job functions. Here are some of the best hard skills to consider adding to your resume.

Resume hard skills

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.  

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.

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.

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). 

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. 

Resume technical skills 

Software Development : This hard skill involves designing, implementing, and testing software (and indicates 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.

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 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.

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.

Job-specific hard skills examples

Job-specific hard skills are the specialized abilities and knowledge needed to perform particular tasks in a specific job.

For example, software engineers may need proficiency in Python or Java, while marketing managers might need different, specific marketing skills like SEO or Google Analytics.

The TLDR? Job-specific skills are important because they connect your past experiences directly to the job you're applying for, showing hiring managers that you have what they're looking for.

Technical skills examples - software engineer

When it comes to software engineering, having the right technical skills is crucial. The following are a few of the top technical skills for software engineers that can help you excel in this field

• 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 .

Technical skills examples - data analyst

For data analysts, having the right technical skills is key to analyzing and interpreting complex data sets. The following are a few of the top technical skills:

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

Explore over a dozen data analyst resumes to help create a list of hard skills for your resume.

Technical skills examples - IT manager

IT managers need a diverse set of technical skills to oversee and maintain an organization's technology infrastructure effectively. Here are a few of the top IT technical skills:

• 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 .

Examples of hard skills - web designer

Web designers need a combination of hard and technical skills to create engaging and effective websites. The following are a few of the top UX and web design hard and technical skills:

List of hard skills examples

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

Examples of hard skills - copywriter

Copywriters require specific hard skills to write compelling and effective content across platforms. The following are a few of the top hard skills for copywriters:

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

Examples of hard skills - students

Students can benefit from developing a range of hard skills to boost academic performance and future career prospects. The following are a few of the top hard skills for students:

• Data Analysis
• Research Skills
• Public Speaking
• Programming (e.g., Python, Java)
• Graphic Design
• Time Management
• Technical Writing
• Foreign Languages
• Statistical Analysis

Hard skills examples by industry

Different industries require unique sets of hard skills to excel and meet job-specific demands. Understanding which skills are most valued in your field can help you tailor your resume for a specific job in a specific industry. In this section, you'll find hard skills examples across various industries to give you a clearer picture of what employers are looking for.

Examples of hard skills - marketing

To excel in marketing, having a strong foundation of hard and technical skills is essential. The following are a few of the top marketing hard and technical skills:

List of hard skills for resume

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

Hard skills examples - customer success

Customer success professionals need a range of hard skills to effectively manage and grow customer relationships. The following are a few of the top customer success hard skills:

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

Hard skills examples - project management

Project managers require specific skills to successfully plan, execute, and oversee projects. The following are a few of the top hard skills in project management:

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

Hard skills examples - Human Resources

Human resources professionals need a diverse set of hard skills to manage various HR functions effectively. The following are a few of the top hard skills in human resources:

• ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) Management
• HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) Software
• Compliance Auditing
• Benefits Administration
• Performance Metrics Analysis
• Learning Management Systems (LMS)
• Organizational Development Tools
• HR Data Analysis
• Conflict Resolution Techniques
• Compensation Benchmarking

Hard skills examples - Sales

Sales professionals need a combination of hard skills to drive revenue and close deals effectively. The following are a few of the top hard skills in sales:

• 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 examples - Leadership

Good leaders require a range of hard skills to guide their teams and drive organizational success. The following are a few of the top hard skills for leadership:

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

Add hard skills to your resume with Teal

In one click, Teal's resume creator 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. 

The most in-demand hard skills of 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).

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 base 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 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 .

Review 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 job seekers like you can easily list them on your resume.

Match your hard 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.)

Where to include 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 made an 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.

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.

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, and 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 click "Add Skills." Here, you can list your skills individually (in addition to incorporating them in a summary or achievements). 

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.

Examples of hard skills for student resumes

Professional summary

Certifications

Examples of hard skills for resume - Entry-level professional

Entry-level social media manager 

Entry-level software developer

Entry-level data scientist 

Examples of hard skills for resume - Mid-level professional

Graphic designer 

Business analyst

Project manager 

Examples of hard skills for resume - Senior-level professional

VP of Sales

Chief administrative officer

Senior IT analyst  

Hard skills and the 2024 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.

Use hard 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.

Compare your hard skills with Teal

Want to make sure you've got the best ingredients for every application during your job search? Use Matching Mode in Teal's Free 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 60-70%. You can incorporate more skills and other keywords from a job listing into your content to improve your score—creating a tailored resume. 

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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100+ Hard Skills for a Resume: Examples & How-to

Hard skills are the technical abilities you need in order to do a job well.

When you’re looking for a job, the list of hard skills (alongside your work experience) is the quickest way for employers to see if you’re a good match. And it’s the biggest red flag if you don’t have them.

That’s why you’ll always see hard skills listed in job descriptions and why you need to highlight them in your resume.

If you’re here for a quick summary:

• Hard skills are often unique to a specific job and industry. They are abilities you gain through education, work experience, and training.
• When applying for a job, you need to add your most important hard skills to your resume and tailor them to fit the job description.
• There are 3 places in your resume where you should incorporate your skills: the skills section, the resume summary or objective, and your work experience section.
• If you’re not sure which hard skills to include, check for examples of hard skills online, ask ChatGPT, or ask ex-coworkers to help you.
• Don’t include skills you don’t have.

If you want to dive deeper, here’s what we’ll cover in this article:

• How to identify your hard skills for a resume
• Examples of hard skills for different industries
• How to best highlight your hard skills (and pass the ATS)

Want your resume to be on point for your next application? Our ResumeAI tool will check for little errors like spelling and grammar, but also big red flags like format and how credible your language sounds. Plus, our ATS FIT evaluator uses A.I. to assess how closely aligned your resume is to the employer’s job description. You’ll know exactly what you need to create a winning resume.

POLISH-UP YOUR RESUME

What Are Hard Skills?

Hard skills are skills that are measurable and specific to certain roles, industries, and tasks . You usually gain them through professional experience, education, or training.

When reviewing resumes, employers have an ideal candidate profile in mind, and they will look at your skills section to check if you’re a match.

Hard skills vs. soft skills

Professional skills fall into two groups — hard skills (sometimes also called technical skills) and soft skills (interpersonal skills). 

The main difference between them is that hard skills are tangible, quantifiable, and teachable. Soft skills, on the other hand, are related to behavior, personality, and how you interact with other people. 

For example, a Project Manager needs these hard skills: Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, PMP, software like Jira, Confluence or Kanban boards, and budget management. 

At the same time, to thrive in the role, they need soft skills like great communication with stakeholders, deadline management, cultural proficiency, and the ability to adapt quickly to timeline or project changes.

Both types of skills are relevant to your career — a balance of hard and soft skills will make you a well-rounded professional.

For more info on hard vs. soft skills, check out this guide on Skills to Put on a Resume .

How to Identify Hard Skills for Your Resume

To best showcase your top hard skills on a resume, it’s not enough to pack 3–4 random skills in a separate resume section and leave it at that.

There’s a better approach that will increase your chances of passing the bot resume screening (more about this later) and get invited to the interview.

Identify which hard skills are needed

It’s important to consider what hard skills the employer will be looking for. 

If you can’t find them in the job ad, you can predict the hard skills you will need by looking at lists of the most in-demand hard skills for your role.

💡 Pro tip: List only those skills you genuinely have. You can easily be caught lying — you’ll need to discuss and demonstrate the skills in a test or in the interview.

Make a list of all of your key hard skills 

Ideally, as you progress in your career, you’ll list all new skills you acquire, and have the list ready and up-to-date. 

If that’s not the case, you can follow these steps to come up with the list:

• List the skills you rely on to complete your past and current job responsibilities.
• List any training or certifications.
• Go through multiple job descriptions for your role and list the skills they’re looking for.
• List the tools, technologies, and methodologies you use in projects or daily tasks.
• If you’re not sure, ask for feedback from coworkers, supervisors, and mentors.
• Explore online skills inventories or lists specific to your industry or role ( O*Net is a great place to start ).
• Use AI tools like ChatGPT to ask about the relevant skills for your role.

Match your hard skills to the ones listed in the job ad

If you read the job description carefully, you’ll spot the key skills throughout. 

For instance, if you’re a Frontend Engineer, you may come across “React,” “JavaScript,” “TypeScript,” “HTML,” and “CSS” or, even more detailed, “Redux and a side effect managing library like Redux-Saga,” “testing frameworks like Jest,” and “proficiency in English.”

When you have a list of skills ready, cross-reference it with your own experiences to identify matches. You can also ask a coworker or a former manager to review it.

💡 Pro tip: When a job posting lists specific skills as a requirement, list them on your resume too (if you have them). Otherwise, the ATS may disqualify your application. 

Examples of Hard Skills for a Resume for Different Industries

Here are the top resume hard skills examples to strengthen your resume:

Hard skills for software developers

• Spring Boot
• Elasticsearch
• Visual Studio Code
• IntelliJ IDEA
• Gitlab CI/CD
• Software revision control systems
• Development and web architecture frameworks
• iOS and Android app development

Check out this guide on how to create a resume template for software engineers, data scientists and web developers: Free Resume Examples .

Hard skills for data analysis 

• Data visualization
• Python 
• Machine learning
• Apache Hadoop
• Apache Spark
• Advanced Excel
• Amazon Redshift
• Google BigQuery
• Jupyter Notebooks

Hard skills for cyber security

• Cloud security
• On-premises security
• Endpoint security
• Incident response management
• Penetration testing
• Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)

Hard skills for customer service

• Active listening
• Knowledge of customer service software (like Zendesk or Freshdesk)
• Multilingual customer support
• Problem-solving
• CRM systems
• Round Robin
• Writing knowledge base articles

Hard skills for sales

• Cold calling 
• CRM software
• Prospecting
• Outreach.io
• Data enrichment tools 
• LinkedIn Bots
• Sales Navigator
• Phantom Buster
• Seamless.AI 
• B2B/B2C sales expertise
• Market research and analysis
• Sales presentation and pitching
• Sales funnel management

Hard skills for teaching and education

• Instructional design 
• Differentiated Instruction
• Curriculum development
• Mastery of subject matter 
• Google Meet
• Online collaboration tools
• Virtual whiteboards 

Hard skills for business and finance

• Financial reporting
• Economic forecasting
• Regulatory compliance
• Risk Management
• Proficiency in MS Excel 
• Financial modeling
• Bloomberg Terminal
• Morningstar Direct
• Adaptive Insights
• IBM Planning Analytics
• Tax Software

Hard skills for design 

• Graphic user interfaces (GUI)
• User research
• User experience
• User interface design
• User testing
• Wireframing
• Prototyping
• Typesetting
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe InDesign

Hard skills for marketing

• SEO and SEM
• Marketing Funnel Optimization
• Lead scoring
• Lead nurturing
• Google Analytics
• Copywriting
• Newsletters
• Lead generation
• Email marketing software 
• Social media management
• Content Strategy
• Video editing

Hard skills for healthcare

• Clinical knowledge
• Equipment handling
• Triage and emergency assessment
• Medical report management 
• EHR software
• HIPAA knowledge 
• CPR and first aid 
• Urgent care
• Monitoring vital signs
• Medical treatment administration
• Interpreting lab results and medical charts
• Advising patients on medical treatment 
• EMRs system proficiency 

Hard skills for administrative roles

• Office management
• Bookkeeping
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Database management 
• Typing speed (wpm)
• Scheduling and calendar management 
• Google Cloud Platform
• Supply management 
• Customer service 
• Reporting 
• Travel arrangements
• File management 
• Correspondence

💡 Pro tip: Your skill set may evolve over time, so revisit and update your list regularly.

Remember how we said ATS can disqualify you unless you put the right hard skills in your resume? Here’s more detail from our Chief Coach, Pamela Skillings.

Many ATS systems are trained to look for specific skills when evaluating whether a resume is a “match” for the position. Analyze the job description to identify which hard skills seem most important for the best jobs. Focus on those listed first under requirements or repeated throughout the requirements and job responsibilities sections. You can also use a tool like Big Interview’s Resume AI to compare your resume with a specific job description and identify how well optimized you are, then suggest what to add to increase your chances of scoring a match with the ATS.

How to List and Highlight Your Hard Skills (Samples Included) 

There are 3 places where you can highlight your hard skills (but also soft skills):

• Add a separate Skills section
• Weave your hard skills in the Work Experience section  
• Include them in your resume summary or resume objective

How to list your hard skills in a separate section

When listing hard skills for a resume, you should place them in a separate resume section.

One way to do this is to create a sidebar on the left hand side of your resume document. Within that sidebar, you should create sections for information like your personal info, skills, or hobbies.

Another way to do it is to place the skills below your work experience section (like in the resume example below).

Within the Skills section, use bullets to list your soft and hard skills.

Here are some real-life examples of listing hard skills in a separate resume section. 

Entry-level Customer Support Representative job description

Here’s how an ideal candidate would present hard skills for this particular role:

Sample hard skills list for an entry-level CSR role

• Detail oriented
• Problem-solving skills
• MS Office suite
• Advanced Excel skills
• Fast typing (70 WPM)
• Strong verbal and written communication skills 
• Ability to explain complex information clearly

Experienced Project Manager job description

A resume that will get past the AST software and catch the recruiter’s attention features hard skills in the following way: 

Sample hard skills list for a mid-level Project Management role

• Proficient in Agile and Waterfall 
• Expert-level Jira, Microsoft Project, and Trello 
• Prince2 certification 
• Demonstrated knowledge in supply chain processes, logistics, procurement, and inventory management
• Understanding of business operations, financial management, and strategic planning
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to assess, manage, and mitigate risks
• Strong ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously

Why we like it:

Both applicants wrote their hard-skill section based on the job description, which ensured better alignment with job expectations and requirements. They also used targeted keywords that make it easier for the ATS (and recruiters) to scan their resume. In both examples, the separate hard-skills section acts like a sneak peek into the applicants’ qualifications and expertise so that the hiring manager can quickly spot if they’re the right fit for the role.

How to weave your skills into your work experience section

To reinforce hard skills most relevant to the position you’re applying for, you should also include them in your work experience section.

If you do this, you’ll need to prove each hard skill with concrete examples.

For example, as a Blog Writer, you need to know about keyword placement, meta title character limits, WordPress, Grammarly, or AI tools like ChatGPT and Byword.

You can weave that into your work experience section like this:

• Wrote 30 low-intent articles in Q1 as part of a progressive SEO project with Byword and ChatGPT.
• Formatted articles in WordPress, paying attention to code best practices.
• Hit 95% grammatical and stylistic accuracy in Grammarly.

Let’s use the same job descriptions from earlier to show how to highlight and provide more context to your hard skills by incorporating them into the work experience section. 

Hard skills highlighted on an entry-level customer support agent work history entry

Volunteer Manager Happy Paws Sanctuary August 2022 — Present 

• Ran newsletters and social media campaigns that increased community awareness and engagement, contributing to a 20% increase in event attendance and a 25% boost in volunteer signups.
• Demonstrated exceptional data entry skills with a typing speed of over 60 WPM, accurately managing the shelter’s database, including donor information and volunteer records.
• Took part in organizing a fundraising campaign that generated over $10,000, enhancing the shelter’s ability to serve the community.
• Gained valuable experience in nonprofit management, customer service, and operational logistics, demonstrating a strong foundation in skills transferable to professional environments.

Hard skills highlighted on an experienced project manager work history entry

Senior Project Manager 

CliqIT Logistics

January 2020—Present

• Led a team of 10 in streamlining supply chain processes, achieving a 20% reduction in delivery times and a 15% cost saving by implementing Lean methodologies and quality processes.
• Managed over 30 cross-functional projects from inception to closure, consistently delivering within scope and budget and achieving a 25% improvement in project delivery timelines.
• Launched a digital transformation initiative, overseeing the software development lifecycle and introducing Agile methodologies.
• Created detailed project reports using MS Project and Jira, enhancing project visibility and stakeholder communication, leading to a 30% increase in stakeholder satisfaction.

Both examples are very specific and detail how the candidate implemented relevant hard skills and improved some critical tasks and operations. By quantifying their achievements, these applicants show exactly how they can contribute to the prospective companies. 

If you’re unsure how to structure your work experience section, check out this guide: Work Experience on a Resume: 20+ Examples of How to List It

How to make your skills pop in your resume summary or objective

You should sprinkle your hard skills throughout your resume, including the summary and objective. 

Take a look at this example:

Senior product designer with 8+ years of experience working with Fortune 2000 clients including Red Bull and Lufthansa. Skilled in user experience, user interface design, information architecture, wireframing, and strategy. Currently leading a multidisciplinary team of 8 in charge of developing and testing layouts, interfaces, and functionalities. Proficient in user research, prototyping, concepting, Figma, Notion, HTML, and CSS.

Here are some more samples to use as inspiration:

Hard skills in an entry-level customer support representative resume objective or resume summary

Resume summary Flexible and detail-oriented professional with a strong community outreach and customer service background, including volunteer coordination and data management skills honed at a local community shelter. Adept at improving operational efficiencies and enhancing customer engagement through effective communication and problem-solving. Adaptable and proficient in Microsoft Office with a proven ability to multitask.

Resume objective Dedicated and efficient professional seeking a customer support role at GreenLite, where my proven communication skills, Microsoft Office proficiency, and experience in high-pressure environments can enhance customer satisfaction and service excellence.

Hard skills in a project manager resume objective or resume summary

Resume summary

Result-oriented project manager with 8+ years of experience and a proven track record of leading and delivering high-impact supply chain and IT projects on time and within budget. Skilled in streamlining supply chain processes, initiating agile transformations, and creating detailed project reports. Recognized for increasing efficiency, mitigating risks, enhancing stakeholder satisfaction, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Resume objective

Resourceful and analytical Project Manager with Prince2 certification, ready to apply expertise in supply chain management and Agile methodologies to help ByteCh achieve operational excellence and significant efficiency improvements.

The examples are short and allow the recruiting managers to see the applicants’ main value prop at a glance. No fluff and irrelevant details — only the essentials that align with the company’s requirements and job descriptions. 

Check out our detailed guides on crafting a winning resume summary and resume objective . 

Hard Skills for a Resume: Popular Opinion vs. Expert Advice

Time to deconstruct some resume writing advice from online spaces like Reddit, YouTube, or Quora.

Two experts, Big Interview’s co-founder and Chief Career Coach with 15+ years of experience, Pamela Skillings , and Michael Tomaszewski , a Certified Professional Resume Writer, went through some upvoted subreddits to analyze the tips given by the community.

User u/KathyanaH on Reddit says: 

Here are some great hard skills to add to your resume right now:

• Research and analysis skills

Data analysis and data collection are really hot skills in the market these days. Mention research, data collection, data analysis, reporting, summarizing, and categorizing in your resume.

• Sales skills

If you are applying for a job in the services sector, this is a must-have skill on your resume. Some keywords you can use are; product knowledge, product development, business communication, sales presentations, and sales demos.

• Tech skills

Technical skills are useful for almost all industries at present. Listing programming, video conferencing, IT optimization, and networking skills on your resume will highlight you.

• Finance skills

The financial skills of candidates help employers make profits. Financial modeling, financial systems, forecasting, and risk analysis are some keywords to incorporate into your resume to emphasize your skills.

Career expert comment:

What’s strange about this post is that it lists hot technical skills for a resume without specifying the roles or industries where these skills would make sense. The skills are generic to the point where I’m 99% sure this was AI-generated.

— Pamela Skillings, Co-Founder and Chief Career Coach at Big Interview

Next, there’s Arslan on Quora on the best hard skills for an entry-level programmer’s resume:

Some examples of hard skills that would look good on a resume for an entry level programmer include:

• Programming languages: Knowledge of programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript.
• Data structures and algorithms: Understanding of fundamental data structures like stacks, queues, and trees, as well as sorting and searching algorithms.
• Object-oriented programming (OOP): Understanding of OOP concepts such as encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism.
• Relational databases: Familiarity with SQL and database management systems such as MySQL or PostgreSQL.
• Web development: Knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, as well as frameworks such as React or Angular.
• Operating systems: Understanding of operating system concepts like file systems, process management, and memory management.
• Debugging and testing: Ability to debug code and write test cases to ensure code quality.

Career expert comment: Not a horrible answer but definitely Chat GPT-generated. The structure easily gives it away. Another problem is that when you list your hard skills for a resume, you need to make sure they match your actual skills to those in the job ad. Copying a list like this won’t be helpful at all.

— Michael Tomaszewski, CPRW

Finally, here’s a Reddit tip one Data Analyst got when they asked about the dos and don’ts for the skills section. They noted how they mostly had hard skills and software to list, but were struggling with the number of skills to include and how to format the section. 

If you have real technical skills to add or proficiencies in platforms that are required for the job, focus on that. I see people waste this space with soft skills like hard worker, analytical, communication etc. This doesn’t help you. List what’s relevant to the role! You’re basically making it easier for a recruiter to see that you have the necessary software and tech skills needed. And recruiters like finding that info fast.

You can just list them as opposed to a progress bar or rating. Since I’d imagine you either know how to use the tool or you don’t.

This Reddit advice is legit. The part where they pointed out that focusing on your actual tech skills is key is spot-on. I agree you should ditch the generic stuff about being a hard worker who is organized and a great team-player. Listing your tech skills straight up without fancy progress bars totally makes sense. It’s all about making it easy for the recruiter and the ATS. Just get to the point. 

Summary of the Main Points

Here’s a quick recap:

• No resume is complete without a list of skills. Hard skills are especially important because they tell the employer what job or industry-specific knowledge and tools you’re familiar with. This automatically means they’ll spend less time on your onboarding and training.
• Add your hard skills to the Skills section of your resume, but also sprinkle them throughout your work history section and resume summary.
• Use the job description as guidance. The required technical skills will be spelled out in the job ad.
• Customize your skills section based on the job requirements and list only those skills you actually have.

How to describe my hard skills if I have no experience and I only know those skills in theory?

If you’re new to the job market and have no experience, you can still list your hard skills on a resume. In the Skills section, list the software, tools, and technologies you’ve learned about. If you took any courses or participated in projects, add them to your Education section to complement and provide evidence for the skills you listed.

What are the most in-demand hard skills in 2024?

According to a recent report from LinkedIn Learning , the most in-demand hard skills in 2024 include Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), data analysis, coding and programming, cloud computing, cybersecurity, sustainability, and project management.

Are hard skills on a resume more important than soft skills?

This depends on the role and the industry. For engineering and technical roles, hard skills are critical and may carry more weight. Many employers choose candidates who are also a “cultural fit,” and may prioritize soft skills because they contribute to a positive work environment and better collaboration. Soft skills are more significant in leadership or managerial positions where the ability to motivate, collaborate, and resolve conflict effectively is crucial.

What are some universal hard skills I should learn?

There are some general hard skills that are useful in many roles and industries. You should be comfortable using MS Excel, Google Docs, and other similar word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation tools. Video conferencing tools like Google Meet or Zoom, social media management, as well as project management methodologies like Agile or Scrum can also be useful. 

Are “technical skills” and “hard skills” the same?

“Technical skills” and “hard skills” are often used to mean the same, but there is a slight difference in meaning. Technical skills are a subset of hard skills and refer to skills related to technology or a specific area of expertise. Hard skills are broader and usually include technical skills. For instance, project management (hard skill) includes the knowledge of PM tools like Monday.com (technical skill), as well as some general project management frameworks (still a “hard” skill, not necessarily technical).

Pamela Skillings

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What Are Hard Skills? (112 Examples Included)

Jeff Gillis 0 Comments

By Jeff Gillis

As a job seeker, your hard skills matter. By having the right ones on your resume, you increase your odds of standing out from the sea of other candidates dramatically.

But what are hard skills? And how do you choose the right hard skills for a resume?

If you’ve ever asked those questions, you’re in luck. We have your back. Come with us as we take a journey into the exciting world of hard skills.

What Are Hard Skills?

Before we get into the hard skills examples, let’s focus a bit on what hard skills are.

The hard skills definition is pretty straightforward. In the most basic sense, hard skills are your technical ability. In most cases, they relate to your prowess with equipment, tools, software, and certain formal processes. It’s specialized knowledge that you can apply in a set way.

Generally, hard skills are the foundation of your career. They are the abilities that let you tackle your assigned duties, ensuring you know how to approach common tasks in a way that meets industry standards.

Additionally, hard skills are typically teachable. They are capabilities that you can learn through traditional education, on-the-job training, and other more formal approaches.

Yes, that might feel a little ambiguous. The thing is, once you take a look at the hard skills list, it’ll become abundantly clear; we promise.

How Are Hard Skills Relevant to a Job Search?

Alright, let’s take another quick pit stop. You may be wondering how hard skills are relevant to your job search. Well, we’re going to tell you.

Your hard skills impact your ability to conduct a job search. For example, your research technique determines how easily you can find opportunities that match your capabilities, needs, and preferences, and your resume-writing skills affect the quality of your application.

Additionally, your hard skills will play a role in how successful your job search ultimately is. Hiring managers are looking for specific hard skills when they fill positions. If you don’t have the right degree of prowess, you might not be able to handle the job’s responsibilities. For hiring managers, that would be a big problem.

It’s also important to understand that when people talk about skill gaps, they are usually referring to hard skills. About 80 percent of Americans believe that there’s a skills gap, and around 35 percent say that they’re personally affected by the shortage in some form or fashion. That means that a candidate’s lack of hard skills isn’t just impacting them, but also those working around them and the company as a whole. Wow, right?

So, what hard skills are hiring managers trying to find? Well, that depends a lot on the position they are trying to fill.

Think about it this way; coding is a hard skill. But, while software developer candidates need it, physical therapist candidates don’t. That doesn’t mean coding isn’t valuable in general; it’s just more valuable career-wise to people who work in specific roles.

Now, that doesn’t mean that some hard skills don’t look good on most resumes. For instance, business writing, productivity suites, and collaboration software are relevant in a ton of industries.

The ability to use technologies that support remote work is also widely sought. Even if you aren’t in a tech role, knowing how to use a VPN is valuable in 2022 if you’ll be spending at least part of your time working from home.

How do you figure out which ones will boost your job search? Well, in the vast majority of cases, it’s spelled out in black and white.

Hiring managers usually discuss any required hard skills in the vacancy announcement. In some cases, they add them to a “must-haves” list. In others, they are mentioned in the job description.

If you’re trying to figure out if you have the right hard skills for a position, use the job description as your starting guide. That’ll get you moving down the right path and also gives you a chance to make sure an opportunity is actually a great fit.

But what if you don’t see a lot of hard skills in the job ad? What then?

While most candidates hope that the job add will spell it all out, that doesn’t always happen. But that doesn’t mean you can’t figure out what you should discuss; you’ll just need to do some extra digging.

Start by looking at competitor’s job descriptions for the same positions. See what they ask for, and use that information as a supplement.

You can also explore deep dives into various jobs. The job descriptions you find there talk about what any employer might be looking for, so it’ll give you some more ideas.

So, when do you discuss your hard skills during a job search? Well, it’s best to do it during every part of it. Mention them in your resume, cover letter, and interview. That way, you’ll look like an incredibly strong match.

How to Highlight Hard Skills for Job Searches

Now that you have a solid answer to the question “What are hard skills?” it’s time to talk about how highlighting them during your job search. Luckily, it’s pretty simple.

In most cases, your hard skills play a big role in your professional accomplishments. That means they’ll naturally make an appearance all throughout your cover letter and resume, as well as many of your interview answers.

When it comes to your resume, you want to reference your key technical abilities in the professional summary, skills section, and work history portion.

You can also sprinkle a few into your cover letter, allowing you to craft a compelling narrative that showcases what you have to offer.

When you talk about your hard skills, you need to do more than just say, “I have [hard skill]” more times than not. Outside of your skills section, which is usually a bullet point list, you want to be achievement-focused.

When you connect a hard skill to an accomplishment, you’re showing the hiring manager that your capabilities drive amazing results. It’s a way to give them valuable context about what you can do, showcasing how your skills are real difference-makers.

But how do you pick the right skills to feature? By using the right strategy! If you really want the content of your resume to shine, get to know the Tailoring Method .

With the Tailoring Method, you align your application with the exact job you want to land, making your resume as relevant as possible. It’s a great way to make sure you stand out from other candidates, increasing the odds that you’ll land an interview and, hopefully, the position.

When you craft your resume, should you be focusing on hard skills over soft skills? Not necessarily.

When it comes to hard skills vs. soft skills, both are incredibly important. In fact, 62 percent of hiring managers consider it important to hire for soft and hard skills, not one over the other.

If you’re wondering what soft skills are , we’ve actually taken a deep dive into the topic before. But, if you’re looking for a quick overview, your soft skills are a reflection of your traits, personality, and mindset. Soft skills are still capabilities; they just aren’t overly technical in nature. Instead, they are attributes that help you excel professionally.

By highlighting your hard and soft skills together, you make yourself a stronger candidate. It’s really is that simple.

List of Hard Skills

Alright, do you feel like you have a good grip on hard skills? Or would you like to see a little more? Well, if you’re in the latter group, you’re in luck. By reviewing some hard skills examples, you can get a better idea of what they are, ensuring you cover them properly in your resume.

So, without further ado, here’s a handy-dandy hard skills list, broken down into categories.

Technology skills are a must for tech professionals as well as many people working in other fields. Here are some technology-related hard skills that you may want to include on your resume:

• Data analysis
• Data visualization
• Programming languages
• Productivity software
• Collaboration software
• POS systems
• Systems analysis
• IT security
• Troubleshooting
• Data mining
• Diagnostics

Accounting and Finance

Financial skills aren’t just for finance and accounting professionals. Many roles rely on them, at least on occasion. Here are some skills that fall in this category:

• Bookkeeping
• Reconciliation
• Account auditing
• Profit forecasting
• Mathematics
• Predictive modeling

Industrial and Manufacturing

Many industrial jobs require strong skillsets. Here are some common capabilities that many hiring managers want to find:

• Forklift driving
• Picking and packing
• Inventory management
• Machine operation
• Vehicle repair
• Equipment maintenance
• Mechanical engineering

Advertising and Marketing

Marketing and advertising can be incredibly technical. Here are some must-have hard skills for professionals in this niche:

• Google analytics
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Social media advertising
• Copywriting
• Email automation
• Sales funnel management
• Campaign management
• Market analysis
• Content creation
• A/B testing
• Graphic design

Human Resources and Personnel Management

The management of people can be harder than many professionals would expect. Without the right hard skills, keeping everyone’s activities aligned isn’t easy. Here are some crucial capabilities that may need to be on your resume:

• Interviewing
• Performance management
• Policy creation
• Disciplinary action
• Training and skill development

Construction

The construction industry relies heavily on specialized hard skills. Here are a few that many hiring managers seek out:

• Engineering
• Heavy equipment
• Blueprint reading

Medicine and Healthcare

The healthcare landscape is incredibly varied, so hiring managers might look for a wide selection of soft skills, depending on the role. If you want a general idea, here are some hard skills for resumes for medical professionals:

• Medical coding
• Medical billing
• Patient records
• Patient vitals
• Massage therapy
• Prescription filling
• Patient histories

Administration and Office

Most jobs require at least a little bit of office work, while others focus on administrative support. Here is a quick hard skills list for capabilities in that vein:

• Report generation
• Presentation creation
• Minute taking
• Business writing

Sales-oriented skills help professionals secure new customers and keep existing customers coming back for more. Here are some hard skills in this niche:

• CRM platforms
• Business communication
• Relationship building
• Product knowledge
• Lead generation
• Lead qualification
• Contracting
• Revenue cycles
• Territory management
• Sales pitches

Foreign Language

The ability to speak or write in a foreign language is a hard skill. If you reference one in your resume, you can leave it general or add a note about your proficiency. Here are a few ways you might present foreign language-related skills on your application:

• Speaking a foreign language
• Writing in and reading a foreign language
• Translation
• Multilingual customer support

Being a manager required a specific set of capabilities. Here are some management hard skills examples.

• Project planning
• Strategy planning
• Performance tracking
• Project lifecycle management
• Financial modeling

Still want more? No problem, we’ve taken a close look at skills to put on a resume before, so check it out if you’re looking for more options.

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, hard skills are usually a foundation of any career. Now that you have the answer to “What are hard skills?” use the information above to your advantage. It’ll help you position yourself as an exceptional candidate, increasing the odds that your job search will yield results.

Thanks for reading!

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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200+ Hard Skills for Your Resume in 2024

In This Guide:

What are hard skills, why are hard skills important, how to develop your hard skills, 17 most in-demand hard skills in 2024, more than 200 important hard skills sorted by categories + examples, tips for including hard skills on your resume, how to demonstrate hard skills on a resume, how to outline your hard skills in a cover letter and interview, common misconceptions about hard skills, frequently asked questions about hard skills, key takeaways.

AI can perform tasks consistently at any time of day.

Tools like ChatGPT can assist in analyzing legal documents, coding, product design, optimizing operations, customer service through chatbots, creating marketing content and strategies, and even accelerating scientific research.

While AI enhances productivity and fosters innovation, it also provides opportunities for people to gain new skills and shift into AI-related roles, promoting a workforce that's better equipped for the future.

• Developing hard skills is more crucial than ever in today’s job market, where AI is taking over certain tasks and changing traditional job roles across industries.

In this article, we’ll walk you through why it’s important to list the right hard skills on your resume for the job you want in this AI-driven world. You’ll learn how to pinpoint the essential skills for your career and how to keep them sharp and up-to-date. Stay ahead, master new technologies, and make sure your career thrives despite the rise of AI.

In this article we’ll cover:

• What are hard skills and why they are important
• Most in-demand hard skills + examples
• Best resume hard skills for popular industries
• How to demonstrate hard skills on your resume and cover letter

Now, let's dive deeper into the essence of hard skills.

Hard skills, also known as technical skills, are specific abilities or knowledge that you can learn and measure. You gain them through education, training, or hands-on experience. These skills are useful both at work and in everyday life. Employers value hard skills because they show you can handle job-specific tasks and meet their demands. They come from education, training, or hands-on experience. Employers love hard skills because they show you can handle job-specific duties or meet the demands of a specific role.

Adding measurable achievements to hard skills can be tricky, but it's achievable. For instance, you might highlight how you used Microsoft Office skills to increase team productivity, discuss the volume of code you write and debug weekly, or showcase how your UX design enhancements improved user engagement.

Look at the examples below:

• Enhanced team productivity by 25% through the development and implementation of custom Microsoft Office macros.
• Successfully wrote and debugged over 1,000 lines of code weekly, ensuring software stability and performance.
• Improved user experience by redesigning the company’s website, which led to a 30% increase in user engagement.

Sometimes, "hard skills" and "technical skills" are used synonymously. This can lead to confusion as people often think "technical skills" only involve computers. However, in job searching, "technical skills" can also mean "hard skills." To avoid confusion, you can refer to the tech tools you're familiar with as tech competencies and thus differentiate between hands-on and technical skills.

Hard skills are key to proving you can do the job. Whether you learn them in school, through training, or on the job, these skills show you have the practical know-how needed for a specific role. When you list hard skills on your resume, you're giving employers clear, concrete evidence of what you can do. Tailoring these skills to the job  you're applying for makes you stand out as a perfect fit. Besides, having up-to-date hard skills shows you're committed to learning and growing in your career, which is a big plus for any employer.

Once you understand the importance of hard skills, you'll likely be eager for some ideas on how to acquire new ones or upgrade the skills you already have. Here are a few effective ways to help you achieve that.

• Education: Enroll in degree programs, community college courses, or specialized classes that focus on the hard skills you need. Formal education provides a deep understanding of key concepts and techniques.
• Training: Attend industry-specific workshops, seminars, and conferences to learn from experts and network with peers. These events often offer hands-on learning opportunities and the latest industry insights.
• Previous work experience: Use your past job roles to refine and improve your existing skills. On-the-job experience is invaluable for gaining practical insights and boosting your proficiency.
• Online learning platforms: Check out resources like Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and Khan Academy for courses on various hard skills.
• Self-study: Spend time on self-study by reading books, watching tutorial videos, and following industry blogs to stay current with the latest trends and techniques.
• Volunteer work :  Volunteer for projects or organizations where you can apply and develop your hard skills in real-world situations. It's a great way to build your skills and boost your resume at the same time.
• Freelance projects: Take on freelance work or side projects that require the hard skills you want to develop. This lets you gain practical experience while working on real tasks.
• Certifications:  Pursue professional certifications  in your field. These often require passing exams that test your knowledge and proficiency in specific hard skills.

In 2024, employers will prioritize candidates with industry-specific hard skills when filling open positions. Resumes are becoming increasingly skills-focused . Here’s a list of the 17 most in-demand hard skills, based on Enhancv’s data, along with some examples.

Blockchain has gained significant importance in recent years as it enables secure storage and trading of cryptocurrencies. With the growth of these financial platforms, many companies are now actively seeking experts in blockchain technology.

Related blockchain skills:

• Cryptography
• Data structure
• Programming languages

Blockchain skills example:

• Developed and deployed smart contracts on Ethereum using Solidity, automating over 200+ transactions daily and increasing operational efficiency by 30%.
• Designed and implemented blockchain architecture, utilizing Hyperledger Fabric to streamline supply chain processes, reducing transaction times by 40% and saving $150,000 annually.

Cloud computing

Cloud computing has become very important in recent years as it offers on-demand access to servers, data storage, networking, software, and AI tools over the Internet with pay-per-use pricing. With the rise of digital transformation and remote work, businesses are now searching for specialists in cloud computing technology.

Related cloud computing skills:

• Virtualization
• Containerization
• Cloud security
• Load balancing
• Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
• Serverless computing

Cloud computing skills example:

• Implemented containerization using Docker and Kubernetes, enhancing deployment speed by 40% and reducing downtime by 20%.
• Developed serverless applications using AWS Lambda, decreasing operational costs by 20% and increasing application responsiveness by 25%.
• Content creation

Content creation is more important than ever, shaping how audiences connect with brands. It’s all about crafting high-quality content, tailoring messages to specific audiences, and keeping people engaged. With online platforms thriving, companies are on the hunt for talented content creators to captivate their audiences and boost brand loyalty.

Related content creation skills:

• Copywriting
• SEO optimization
• Graphic design

Video production

• Social media management
• Content strategy

Content creation skills example:

• Created and published 20+ articles monthly, boosting website traffic by 40% and engagement by 25%.
• Produced and edited videos with Adobe Premiere Pro, cutting production time by 30% and saving $10,000 annually.

Content management systems

Content management systems play a pivotal role in modern marketing, helping brands deliver content smoothly. It's about organizing, storing, and distributing content effectively. As digital presence becomes more important, companies need skilled professionals to manage these systems and drive engagement.

Related content management skills:

• Content organization
• Workflow automation
• Metadata management
• User access control
• Version control
• CMS customization

Content management skills example:

• Organized and managed 500+ content assets, improving retrieval speed by 35% and user efficiency by 20%.
• Implemented CMS customization, streamlining content workflows, reducing publishing time by 25%, and saving $15,000 annually.

Office skills

You need solid office skills for most administrative positions to keep things productive. Employers usually expect administrators to have basic office skills before hiring them. This includes scheduling appointments, greeting customers, providing resources, etc.

Related office skills:

• Appointment scheduling
• Office management
• Resource allocation
• Document management
• Meeting coordination
• Email correspondence

Office skills example:

• Streamlined document management, speeding up file retrieval by 40% and saving 10 hours weekly.
• Scheduled and managed 100+ appointments monthly, increasing office efficiency by 30% and reducing scheduling conflicts by 20%.

Copywriting is all about creating powerful, persuasive messages that get people to convert. You need a range of essential skills, like writing concisely, turning complex ideas into clear messages, and connecting with your target audience. Employers expect to see these skills on your resume when applying for a job.

Related copywriting skills:

• Brand voice development
• Content editing and proofreading
• Audience analysis
• Persuasive messaging
• Creating engaging headlines

Copywriting skills example:

• Crafted SEO-optimized content, boosting organic traffic by 50% and improving search rankings.
• Simplified complex topics, improving reader comprehension by 40% and reducing bounce rates by 25%.
• Foreign languages

Speaking foreign languages helps you bridge gaps and connect with different cultures. Some languages are more in demand than others depending on where you are. Sure, being a native English speaker is a big advantage, but as English becomes more widespread, you might struggle to find work without knowing at least one other language. Recruiters in every industry love bilingual or multilingual candidates.

Related foreign language skills:

• Fluency in multiple languages
• Translation and interpretation
• Multilingual communication
• Advanced grammar and vocabulary
• Cross-cultural negotiation

Foreign language skills example:

• Translated technical documents, reducing errors by 35% and speeding up the product launch process by 15%.
• Translated and localized marketing materials, increasing international sales by 30% and enhancing brand presence in new markets.
• Data analysis

Analyzing data allows you to discover valuable insights and make smart decisions. Different industries prioritize various data analysis skills. Basic data analysis tool proficiency is beneficial, but you might struggle to get noticed without advanced expertise. Emphasizing data analysis skills on your resume gives you an edge with recruiters in every industry.

Related data analysis skills:

• Statistical analysis
• Data visualization
• Predictive modeling
• SQL proficiency
• Data cleaning and preparation
• Machine learning techniques

Data analysis skills example:

• Created data visualizations using Tableau, which improved stakeholder understanding of key metrics by 50%.
• Conducted statistical analyses, identifying trends that led to a 25% increase in marketing campaign effectiveness.
• Database management

Data management skills are a big plus for employers since they let you use data to meet company goals. Even if you're not applying for a database management job, showing these skills on your resume and cover letter can make you a strong candidate. Learning about different data management skills can help you see where you need to grow and improve.

Related database management skills:

• Database design and modeling
• Data backup and recovery
• Database security and encryption
• Data migration and integration
• ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes
• Database administration and maintenance

Database management skills example:

• Designed and maintained database structures, improving data retrieval speed by 35%.
• Automated data migration processes, saving 15 hours weekly.

Microsoft Office

MS Office skills  are super important for keeping things running smoothly and getting stuff done. You should know how to create detailed Excel spreadsheets, write clear documents in Word, and make great PowerPoint presentations. Recruiters have favored these skills on resumes for years.

Related MS office skills:

• Advanced Excel functions and formulas
• Word document formatting and editing
• PowerPoint presentation design
• Outlook email management and scheduling

MS office skills example:

• Created dynamic PowerPoint presentations, improving client engagement by 20%.
• Implemented Outlook email management system, reducing inbox clutter by 50% and improving response times.

Machine learning

If you're in the programming field or trying to get into it, highlight machine learning on your resume. This skill involves using algorithms to learn from data, including tasks like data preprocessing, model selection, and performance evaluation. Key languages for this are Python, R, and Java. Demonstrating your machine learning skills can raise your job prospects in tech.

Related machine learning skills:

• Algorithm development and optimization
• Data preprocessing and cleaning
• Model selection and evaluation
• Feature engineering and selection
• Neural networks and deep learning
• Natural language processing (NLP)

Machine learning skills example:

• Developed and optimized machine learning algorithms, increasing model accuracy by 25%.
• Implemented data preprocessing techniques, reducing data cleaning time by 40% and enhancing data quality.

Spreadsheet

Spreadsheets are an essential skill for many professions and certainly will enhance your resume. They allow you to organize, analyze, and display data effectively. Mastering spreadsheet tools like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets involves understanding how to create formulas, sort data, and generate charts. This skill is particularly valuable in fields like accounting, project management, and data analysis, enabling you to manage information efficiently and support informed decision-making.

Related spreadsheet skills:

• Advanced formula creation and application
• Data sorting and organization
• Chart and graph construction
• Pivot tables and data analysis
• Conditional formatting
• Macro and script integration

Spreadsheet skills example:

• Created complex financial models using advanced Excel functions, improving forecasting accuracy by 30%.
• Streamlined data analysis processes with pivot tables, reducing report generation time by 50% and increasing data accessibility.

System administration

System administration is an essential hard skill for IT professionals and should be prominently featured on your resume if you work in the field. Sys admins troubleshoot issues, perform backups, and maintain overall system performance. Underscoring system administration on your resume shows your capability to keep an organization’s IT services running smoothly. This skill demonstrates your proficiency in operating systems, networking, and software applications, making you a valuable asset for roles that require robust IT infrastructure management.

Related system administration skills:

• Network configuration and management
• Server installation and maintenance
• Security protocols and firewall setup
• User account and access control management
• Software and hardware upgrades

System administration skills example:

• Upgraded server hardware and software, boosting overall system efficiency and reducing downtime by 30%.
• Managed user authentication and access controls, increasing system security and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.
• Project management

Project management is a fundamental hard skill for professionals across various industries, focusing on planning, executing, and finalizing projects according to strict deadlines and within budget. This skill involves coordinating the efforts of team members, managing resources, and communicating with stakeholders to achieve project goals. Effective project managers are proficient in methodologies like Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall, and tools such as Microsoft Project or Asana. Featuring project management on your resume shows you can lead and complete complex projects, demonstrating leadership skills essential for success in any role.

Related project management skills:

• Project scheduling and timeline management
• Resource allocation and budget management
• Risk assessment and mitigation
• Stakeholder communication and management
• Team leadership and task delegation

Project management skills example:

• Led a cross-functional team in completing a major software development project, finishing 20% ahead of schedule and under budget.
• Coordinated stakeholder communications, enhancing project transparency and boosting client satisfaction by 35%.

UX design skills are highly valuable, especially in digital professions, because they enhance user interactions with products. Even if you're not directly applying for a UX designer role, showcasing these skills on your resume can boost your chances as a candidate. This is important in fields like digital marketing, web development, and product management, where understanding the user's journey is crucial.

Related UX design skills:

• User research and persona development
• Wireframing and prototyping
• User interface design
• Usability testing and feedback analysis
• Interaction design

UX design skills example:

• Conducted comprehensive user research and developed detailed personas, leading to a user-centric design overhaul that increased user engagement by 40%.
• Designed and tested wireframes and prototypes, improving user experience and interface usability, which reduced customer support queries by 25%.

Video production is becoming increasingly important as more businesses use videos to connect with their audiences. This skill covers everything from planning and shooting to editing videos. Adding video production to your resume proves you can produce compelling visual content, a skill in high demand in fields like marketing, education, and media. It underlines your ability to create engaging videos that tell stories and share messages effectively.

Related video production skills:

• Scriptwriting and storyboarding
• Camera operation and filming techniques
• Video editing and post-production
• Sound design and audio editing
• Visual effects and graphics integration

Video production skills example:

• Developed and executed comprehensive storyboards and scripts, enhancing narrative flow, which led to a 30% increase in viewer engagement.
• Managed filming and post-production for YouTube content, applying advanced editing techniques and sound design to enhance video quality by 20% and significantly reduce editing time.

Web development

Web and software development skills are essential for landing a role as a web developer and excelling in it. These skills make you a standout candidate during the hiring process and enhance your performance in daily tasks. Proficiency in coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and backend server management using technologies such as PHP, Ruby, or Python, is essential. Including these web development skills on your resume as a PDF file highlights your technical prowess and your readiness to tackle complex web projects.

Related web development skills:

• HTML, CSS, and JavaScript coding
• Backend server management using PHP, Ruby, or Python
• Framework and library integration for enhanced functionality
• Responsive design techniques
• API integration and management

Web development skills example:

• Developed and maintained dynamic, responsive websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, resulting in a 40% increase in user retention.
• Implemented complex server-side applications with PHP and Ruby, boosting system efficiency and reducing load times by 25%.

Each career path requires a tailored set of skills, from precise technical know-how to strong analytical abilities. We’ll pinpoint the crucial hard skills for various industries, categorize them for clarity, and teach you how to emphasize them on your resume. This strategy will make you stand out to leading employers and boost your odds of securing your desired job.

Technical skills for a resume

Technical skills are essential tools across a broad range of fields, enabling professionals to design, analyze, and enhance everything from manufacturing processes to website functionality. These abilities help streamline operations, solve complex problems, and drive innovation in today's tech-driven workplace.

Top technical hard skills

• Lean manufacturing
• Multivariate analysis
• Linear regression
• Prototyping
• Workflow development
• STEM skills
• Web: HTML, CSS, Javascript
• Payment processing
• Automated billing systems
• CRM platforms
• Troubleshooting

These hard skills are best for industries such as:

• Architecture
• Manufacturing
• Engineering

Now, here are a few samples extracted from resumes:

• Developed and tested over 50 prototypes, significantly reducing product development time by 40% and improving final product quality.
• Implemented a new CRM platform, improving customer relationship management processes and increasing client retention rates by 20%.
• Utilized CAD software to design and model over 100 structural components, reducing design time by 25% and enhancing overall project accuracy.

Computer skills for a resume

In today's digital age, having strong computer skills is essential for nearly every job. These abilities are crucial for efficiency and productivity in the workplace. With them you can navigate various software and platforms effortlessly, making you a valuable asset to any team. Whether you're organizing information, communicating effectively, or analyzing data, computer proficiency is key to career success.

Top computer hard skills

• Google drive
• Spreadsheets
• Presentations/Slideshows
• Enterprise systems

These hard skills are applicable to industries such as:

• Advertising

Below are a few cases from real resumes:

• Managed Google Drive and other cloud services, streamlining document sharing and collaboration, and improving team efficiency by 35%.
• Oversaw social media campaigns, increasing brand awareness and engagement by 40%.
• Designed and delivered engaging presentations, boosting audience engagement and improving information retention by 30%.

Analytical skills for a resume

Analytical skills are crucial in the job market nowadays because they enable professionals to interpret data, manage resources, and present findings effectively. Mastering analytical skills ensures better decision-making and enhances your ability to tackle complex challenges. including these competencies in your resume applying for a proper position can significantly boost your chances with recruiters.

Top analytical hard skills

• Forecasting
• Data mining
• Data presentation
• Resource management
• Data engineering
• Data and metrics interpreting
• Diagnostics
• Information technology
• Business intelligence

Here are 3 examples:

• Conducted extensive research, leading to the discovery of new market trends and boosting project accuracy by 25%.
• Managed database systems, ensuring data integrity and reducing retrieval time by 40%.
• Generated detailed reports, enhancing stakeholder insights and improving decision-making efficiency by 30%.

Marketing hard skills for a resume

To catch a recruiter’s eye and secure that interview, showcasing your hard marketing skills on your resume is a must. Across various sectors, marketing skills empower professionals to develop, execute, and optimize campaigns, from SEO to paid ads. Besides, understanding customer behavior through data analysis lets you create personalized marketing strategies. Nowadays, mastering these marketing skills is crucial to staying ahead and landing the job you’ve always wanted.

Top marketing hard skills

• Social media marketing
• CRO and A/B testing
• Email marketing and automation
• Funnel management
• Google Analytics and Google Search Console
• Google Ads, Facebook Paid Ads

These hard skills for marketing are appropriate for industries such as:

• Public relations
• Web Development

Take a look at these instances from actual resumes:

• Developed targeted email marketing strategies, resulting in a 30% boost in subscriber engagement.
• Managed PPC campaigns, increasing click-through rates by 35% and reducing bounce rates by 20%.
• Created 20+ SEO campaigns for websites with complex media and big structures.

Presentation skills for a resume

Effective presentation skills are essential for success in any professional setting and can impress recruiters when highlighted on your resume. Whether communicating complex data, persuading stakeholders, or designing slideshows, strong presentation abilities set you apart. These skills combine confidence, adaptability, and stress management with visual communication. Mastering them ensures your message is clear and engaging, making you a standout candidate.

Top presentation hard skills

• Visual communication
• Data & audience analysis
• Storytelling

These presentation skills are useful in many industries, including:

See these samples from actual resumes:

• Designed and delivered 50+ client presentations, boosting sales by 25% and enhancing customer satisfaction.
• Created visually compelling slideshows for executive meetings, improving stakeholder engagement by 30%.
• Developed and presented detailed market analysis reports, aiding decision-making and increasing project approval rates by 20%.

Management hard skills for a resume

In the competitive job market, having solid management skills is essential for team leadership, project oversight, and strategic decision-making. Underlining them on your resume can improve your chances with recruiters. Advancing your career to a managerial role can provide many rewarding opportunities. You want to help the company reach its goals and execute its core strategies. Whether you’re heading a team, handling projects, or shaping strategies, having strong management skills is incredibly valuable.

Top management hard skills

• Business knowledge
• Office management skills
• New business development
• Negotiating

These skills are useful in industries, such as:

• Developed and managed comprehensive budgets for multiple projects, optimizing resource allocation and reducing overall costs by 15%.
• Designed and executed detailed project plans, ensuring timely delivery and increasing project completion rates by 25%.
• Led negotiation sessions with vendors and partners, securing favorable terms and reducing expenses by 20%.

Writing skills for a resume

Businesses today know how crucial storytelling is in the 21st century. Strong writing skills can be your ticket to impressing hiring managers and landing that interview call. If you're crafting engaging narratives, creating compelling content, or clearly communicating complex ideas, showing these skills on your resume can make you more attractive to recruiters. Good writing opens doors, allowing you to convey information effectively and captivate audiences with compelling storytelling, making it essential for career success.

Top writing hard skills

• Basic knowledge: grammar, punctuation, spelling, vocabulary
• Note-taking
• Email writing
• Business writing reports, press releases, content management
• Creative writing: plotting, world building, dialogue
• Academic writing
• Proposal writing
• Social media
• Presentation writing

These writing-related hard skills are useful across a variety of industries:

• Entertainment
• Business Analysis

Here are 3 excerpts from genuine resumes:

• Edited and refined multiple manuscripts, ensuring high-quality content and reducing errors by 15%.
• Led interviews with key sources and stakeholders, securing exclusive information and enhancing content quality by 20%.
• Designed and executed detailed proposal plans, ensuring timely submission and increasing win rates by 25%.

Language skills for a resume

Call centers aren’t the only places looking for multilingual applicants anymore. Being able to speak multiple languages  is a huge plus in many fields, often leading to bonuses when you’re hired. It makes interactions with clients, partners, and colleagues around the world smoother and shows you're ready to succeed in a global workplace.

Here are a few of the most widely spoken foreign languages in the US :

Top spoken languages in the USA

• French (incl. Cajun)        
• Korean        

Many industries benefit from multilingual professionals, including:

• Customer service
• International business
• Tourism and hospitality
• Legal services
• Government and public service

Here’s an example:

• Translated and polished numerous documents, ensuring high-quality multilingual content and reducing errors by 15%.

Design skills for a resume

Whether it's UX, interior, or graphic design, these skills are in high demand because customers are drawn to beautiful experiences. Putting your design expertise on your resume shows you can deliver visually stunning and user-centric designs, making you an essential hire.

Top design hard skills

• Illustrator
• UX/UI design
• UX research
• Color theory
• Print design

Design skills can be utilized in various industries, like:

• Technology and software development
• Fashion and Apparel
• Film and television production

Here are some successful examples:

• Conducted thorough user research, uncovering new UX trends and increasing design accuracy by 25%.
• Managed design asset libraries, ensuring easy access and reducing retrieval time by 40%.
• Led the interior design project for a luxury hotel, resulting in a 15% increase in guest bookings and winning a prestigious industry award.

Project management hard skills for a resume

Featuring your project management hard skills on your resume is important. It demonstrates your capability to handle complex projects and achieve successful outcomes. Recruiters seek candidates who can manage resources, adhere to deadlines, and meet project goals. Highlighting these skills can give you a competitive edge in hiring.

Top project management hard skills

• Project scheduling
• Strategic planning
• Project lifecycle management
• Agile software
• Scrum management
• Financial modeling
• Performance tracking

Design skills are applicable in industries, as:

• Construction
• Developed and managed comprehensive project plans using Agile software, resulting in a 30% increase in project delivery speed.
• Implemented Scrum management techniques, reducing project costs by 15% and ensuring timely completion.
• Led cross-functional teams through Kanban sessions, identifying potential issues early and effectively mitigating risks.

Network structure & security hard skills

Network structure and security hard skills are crucial for keeping data safe and ensuring smooth communication. These skills cover designing secure networks, managing firewalls, and spotting vulnerabilities. Showcasing your know-how in network security protocols, intrusion detection, and encryption on your resume can really impress employers. In today's world where cyber threats are everywhere, your ability to protect information systems makes you a standout candidate, especially for roles in IT and cybersecurity.

Top network structure & security hard skills

• Encryption algorithms
• Authentication systems
• Risk assessment
• Virtual and host-based firewalls
• Incident response
• Network monitoring software like Wireshark and Nagios
• Virus protection software like Ping Identity, Portswigger BurP Suite, and Symantec

These hard skills are essential in areas such as:

• Cybersecurity
• Telecommunications

View these cases from real resumes:

• Managed network security protocols with firewalls, boosting system reliability by 30%.
• Implemented incident response strategies, reducing security breaches by 15%.
• Used network monitoring tools like Wireshark and Nagios to spot and fix threats.

Business hard skills for a resume

Your resume needs to showcase your business hard skills to catch the eye of potential employers. These abilities show employers you can manage resources, identify opportunities, and steer projects to success. Plus, being proficient in tools like Excel and QuickBooks is a huge bonus. Adding these skills, you're letting potential employers know you’re ready to contribute to their goals and drive their business forward.

Top business hard skills

• Budget forecasting
• Asset management
• Financial management
• Audit planning
• Risk management
• Process flow
• Cash flow analysis
• ISO 9001 & ANSI standards
• Supply chain management
• Budget management
• Billing systems
• Human resources

These hard skills are valued in fields like:

• Hospitality

Check out these examples:

• Planned and executed detailed audit plans, improving overall compliance and reducing audit time by 25%.
• Managed risk assessment and mitigation strategies, ensuring seamless operations and reducing potential risks by 40%.
• Led the SOX compliance project for a major client, resulting in a 15% reduction in compliance costs and earning a prestigious industry award.

Hard skills in the medical field

Medical hard skills are a must-have for any healthcare resume. Employers look for patient care, medical terminology, diagnostic procedures, and proficiency with medical equipment. These skills ensure quality care and efficient operations. By showing them, you demonstrate your expertise and commitment to patient care, making you a strong candidate for healthcare roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.

Top medical hard skills

• Patient assessment
• Patient safety
• Electronic Medical Record (EMR)
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Medication management
• IV-line placement
• Record assessment
• Treatment planning
• Infection control and aseptic procedure
• Equipment maintenance
• Patient referral

Medical hard skills are important in industries like:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Medical research
• Biotechnology

Here are some examples:

• Planned and executed detailed wound care protocols, improving patient healing times and reducing infection rates by 10%.
• Managed telemetry monitoring, ensuring continuous patient data tracking and reducing emergency response times by 30%.
• Led the IV-line placement initiative in a major hospital, increasing staff proficiency and reducing placement errors by 15%, earning recognition for excellence in patient care.

Hard skills in nursing for a resume

Being a successful nurse means mastering a wide range of hard skills. These abilities are vital for ensuring quality patient care and effective healthcare management. Underlining your hard skills in nursing on your resume demonstrates your technical abilities and commitment to high standards. Employers in healthcare settings look for these competencies to ensure their staff can meet the job's challenges. Hard skills increase your appeal to employers, enhancing your chances of getting a job in nursing.

Top nursing hard skills

• Basic life support
• Patient records maintenance
• Critical care nursing
• EHR proficiency
• CPR and first aid
• Care plan development
• Catheterization
• Emergency response

Nursing hard skills are necessary in industries like:

• Clinical research
• Pharmaceutical

Below are some examples:

• Provided critical care nursing to patients, improving patient outcomes and reducing recovery time by 25%.
• Utilized EHR proficiency to streamline patient documentation, enhancing workflow efficiency and reducing errors by 40%.
• Conducted CPR and first aid training for staff, increasing response readiness and improving patient survival rates by 15%.

Production skills for a resume

In the fast-paced world of manufacturing and production, having the right hard skills can make a huge difference and catch the eye of potential employers. These skills are crucial for ensuring that production processes run smoothly, efficiently, and meet high standards. Companies striving for excellence in production really value these abilities. Including them on your resume can demonstrate your ability to boost productivity, maintain quality, and be a vital part of a production team's success.

Top production hard skills

• Quality control
• Production scheduling
• Inventory management
• Workflow optimization
• Assembly line management
• Safety compliance
• Lean manufacturing techniques
• Process improvement
• Technical troubleshooting

Let’s check in which industries these hard skills are needed:

• Electronics
• Food and Beverage

Look at these examples:

• Managed production scheduling, increasing efficiency and reducing downtime by 25%.
• Optimized inventory management, streamlining processes and reducing errors by 40%.
• Conducted equipment maintenance training for staff, improving operational readiness and reducing breakdowns by 15%.

Hard skills in education for a resume

Teaching kids or using new technologies for education? You need the right hard skills to succeed. Whether it's crafting interactive lessons or integrating classroom tech, abilities are everything. Adding your educational expertise to your resume shows you can plan lessons, assess students, and use cool tools to make learning fun and effective. It's a great way to make an impression.

Top educational hard skills

• Curriculum development
• Classroom management systems
• Presentation skills
• Record keeping
• Early childhood development
• Pedagogical content
• Structured and unstructured interactive teaching
• Lesson planning
• Grade-level specific knowledge
• Administrative skills
• Microsoft office

Let's see which industries rely on these educational skills.

Consider these samples:

• Implemented new software, enhancing efficiency and reducing paperwork by 30%.
• Enhanced lesson planning, boosting student engagement and reducing classroom disruptions by 20%.
• Improved pedagogical content development, resulting in a 30% increase in student comprehension and retention rates.

Communication skills for a resume

While typically considered a soft skill, communication also requires technical proficiency in some professions to be effective. Many people list "communication" too broadly on their resumes. To impress recruiters and secure an interview, be specific about the aspects of communication you excel at and quantify your skills on your resume.

In today's tough job market, strong communication can make a big difference.

Top communication hard skills

• Content management
• Community outreach
• Translation
• Public speaking
• Transcribing
• Grant writing
• Press release

Here are a few industries that require these hard skills.

• Social and Legal services

Read these useful examples:

• Utilized public speaking techniques, increasing audience engagement and reducing presentation time by 30%.
• Enhanced academic writing strategies, improving clarity and reducing revision time by 20%.
• Implemented advanced transcribing methods, resulting in a 30% increase in accuracy and comprehension.

Accounting and finance hard skills for a resume

Accounting and finance operations are the backbone of a company's financial health and efficiency, large or small. Strong financial management opens doors, enabling you to drive business success and make informed decisions. These skills can be your ticket to impressing hiring managers. Presenting these abilities sets you up as a vital asset in the finance field.

Top accounting and finance hard skills

• CRM systems
• Knowledge of tax regulations
• Proficiency with specific software (e.g., Intuit QuickBooks Online, FreshBooks)
• Financial reporting and budgeting
• Data collection and management
• Accounts payable/receivable
• Payroll management
• Compliance and regulation adherence

Accounting and finance hard skills are valuable in various industries, including:

• Real estate
• Infrastructure

Take a look at these helpful samples:

• Conducted comprehensive audits, improving financial accuracy and reducing discrepancies by 25%.
• Streamlined payroll management processes, reducing errors and improving efficiency by 40%.
• Managed accounts payable and receivable, ensuring timely payments and collections.

Customer service hard skills for a resume

In the rapidly evolving sector of customer service, mastering the right hard skills can set you apart from other candidates and attract potential employers. These skills are crucial for maintaining high standards of customer support, resolving issues quickly, and fostering positive relationships. Organizations that value outstanding customer service prize these abilities.

Top customer service hard skills

• Product/service knowledge
• Point of sale
• Customer management
• Digital awareness
• CRM software proficiency

The top industries where customer service hard skills are most useful:

• Call centers

Look at these real cases:

• Utilized CRM software proficiency to track customer interactions and streamline follow-up processes.
• Increased digital awareness among team members, leading to a 20% improvement in online customer service ratings.
• Optimized point of sale systems, reducing transaction errors and improving checkout efficiency by 40%.

Data administration skills for resume

Data administration hard skills are important in our data-driven world. Like other tech pros, data admins need to master various skills to do their jobs well and stand out to employers. These skills help you handle, analyze, and secure data efficiently. Showing these abilities on your resume can highlight your role in keeping data operations smooth and solving data issues, making you a valuable asset to any company.

Top data administration hard skills

• Knowledge of database applications (e.g., DB2)
• Database administration certification (e.g., Oracle MySQL)
• Backup and recovery
• Data security
• Data migration
• Data modeling

These data administration hard skills are valuable in industries like:

• Energy and Utilities

These actual examples might interest you:

• Leveraged knowledge of database applications like DB2 to streamline data retrieval, boosting efficiency by 30%.
• Applied troubleshooting skills to quickly resolve database issues, reducing downtime by 25%.
• Established reliable backup and recovery protocols, ensuring data integrity and minimizing the risk of data loss.

Human resources hard skills for a resume

The reality for HR professionals is that their roles are constantly changing. To thrive and grow your career, developing new skills is a must. Hard skills are key to success in human resources, boosting your confidence and performance. Learning which skills are essential helps you focus on improving them before listing them on your resume.

Top HR hard skills

• Legal and compliance knowledge
• Knowledge of HR-related software (e.g., BambooHR, OpenHR)
• Talent acquisition and recruitment
• HRIS (Human Resources Information System) management
• Compensation and benefits administration
• Performance management

Many industries, like these, need good HR skills:

• Administered compensation and benefits programs, improving employee satisfaction and retention rates by 15%.
• Applied legal and compliance knowledge to ensure HR policies met all regulatory requirements, reducing compliance issues by 40%.
• Managed talent acquisition and recruitment, leading to a 20% increase in successful hires and improving overall team performance.

Hospitality hard skills for a resume

Mastering key hard skills in hospitality shows you're great at what you do. These skills are crucial for providing excellent guest experiences, managing operations smoothly, and keeping service standards high. Check job descriptions  for the required hard skills and match them with yours. There are also general skills that the industry expects from everyone.

Top hospitality hard skills

• Reservation management
• Event planning
• Computer proficiency
• Human resource management
• Maintenance and cleaning
• Marketing skills
• Housekeeping management
• Health and safety compliance

Here are some of the industries that rely on hospitality hard skills:

• Health and wellness

Have a look at these actual examples:

• Improved reservation management processes, reducing booking errors by 30% and increasing efficiency.
• Streamlined housekeeping management practices, maintaining high cleanliness standards and reducing guest complaints by 15%.
• Planned and executed over 20 events, resulting in a 25% increase in customer satisfaction and repeat booking.

After all this information, you might be wondering how to include your hard skills on your resume. Read the tips below to learn how to show your skills and what is important to keep in mind.

Hard skills are the focus  for 88% of hiring managers when reading resumes.

Tailor your resume to the job description

Make sure your resume stands out  by tailoring it to the job description. Start by reading the job posting thoroughly and noting the hard skills they mention. Underscore these skills on your resume, especially in the skills section and work experience descriptions. For example, if the job needs proficiency in a particular software, emphasize your experience with it. Tailoring your resume  shows you understand the employer’s needs and that you’re a great fit for the role. It may take time to create a targeted resume  for each job ad, but it's definitely worth the effort. This makes your resume more relevant and increases your chances of getting through ATS systems, which read resumes by picking up specific keywords.

83% of recruiters  say they're more likely to hire a candidate who has tailored their resume to the specific job they're applying for.

Choose which hard skills to include

Choosing the right hard skills to underline on your resume is very important. As we already mentioned, reading the job description carefully is a great starting point. Look for specific skills the employer wants. These can be technical abilities, software skills, or industry knowledge.

For example, if a company uses Jira for project management and you have experience with Basecamp, you can include Basecamp on your resume.

Once you know what they want, compare it to your skills. Pick the ones that match. Make sure to put these skills in the skills section of your resume . Also, mention them in your work experience and achievements. If they need a specific software, note your experience with it in your job descriptions. This shows you have what they need.

Choose the right resume format

There are three key resume formats , each emphasizing different parts of your career. Let’s dive into each to see which one fits you best.

• Reverse chronological format :  Great for candidates with lots of experience in their field. This format lists your work history first, followed by key skills. Emphasize your main soft and hard skills, and give examples of how you’ve used them in previous jobs.
• Functional format :  Best if you lack work experience but have relevant skills and training. This format groups your skills to give a clear picture of your abilities. The functional resume skills section highlights your top skills.
• Hybrid format : Ideal for people with a mix of experience and skills, this format combines elements of both chronological and functional resumes. It lets you showcase your relevant skills alongside your job history, making it perfect for displaying a broad range of abilities and steady career advancement.

Add your hard skills to a skills section

Adding hard skills to your resume demonstrates your mastery of essential techniques and equipment for your role. Create a section on your resume labeled "Hard skills," ideally placed near the top or right after the work experience section.

For instance, if you're seeking a job as a bookkeeper, organize your hard skills under categories like "Accounting software," "Financial reporting," and "Payroll management" for better clarity. Ensure these skills are tailored to align perfectly with the bookkeeper position you're targeting. In addition to the skills section, integrate your hard skills throughout your work experience descriptions. For example, mention specific tools or techniques you used and the results you achieved. This provides context and demonstrates how you’ve applied your skills in real-world situations, reinforcing their value to potential employers.

Show how you’ve used your hard skills

Showing how you've used your hard skills can really boost your resume. Instead of just listing them, give concrete examples with measurable results. For instance, say "Implemented a new CRM system, increasing client retention by 20%," or "Developed a project management tool that improved on-time delivery rates by 30%." These real numbers  prove you have the skills and know how to use them to get actual results. This makes your resume more compelling and helps hiring managers see your true capabilities and potential contributions.

Pay attention to the ATS

Applicant Tracking Systems  play a critical role in the hiring process, and understanding how to optimize your resume for these systems is essential. ATS software scans resumes for keywords and phrases that match the job description. To ensure your resume will reach a human reviewer, include relevant keywords  and hard skills from the job posting in your resume.

Use standard fonts  and formats to ensure that the ATS can accurately parse your information. Avoid using images, graphics, or tables that might confuse the system. By optimizing your resume for ATS, you enhance its chances of reaching a human recruiter and getting you one step closer to securing an interview.

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Listing hard skills on your resume isn’t enough. You need to show them in a way that highlights your strengths. This section will guide you through the best ways to present your hard skills on a resume. No matter what job you're aiming for, these tips will help you create a resume that stands out and improves your chances of getting hired.

One way to show your hard skills on your resume is through the summary section . This brief, yet impactful, snapshot of your expertise should be limited to a maximum of 5 sentences. It's a concise method to display your most relevant abilities prominently at the top of your resume. A well-crafted summary that highlights your hard skills can quickly capture the attention of hiring managers and set a positive tone for the rest of your resume.

Work experience

Incorporating hard skills into your work experience section  by highlighting specific tasks and accomplishments is a smart move. Detailing how you applied these skills in previous roles can provide tangible proof of your capabilities. Use action verbs  to describe your contributions and include concrete examples and metrics where possible to quantify your impact. This approach makes it clear how your skills contributed to your past employers' success and showcases your practical application of these skills.

• • Managed financial records for over 50 clients, ensuring 100% accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
• • Utilized QuickBooks to streamline bookkeeping processes, reducing data entry errors by 20%.
• • Prepared monthly financial reports, providing critical insights that improved client decision-making by 15%.
• • Conducted payroll processing for 200+ employees, ensuring timely and accurate payments.
• • Implemented a new invoicing system, reducing overdue accounts by 30%.
• • Maintained meticulous records for all financial transactions, increasing audit readiness by 25%.

Another option is to include hard skills in your education section . Put the focus on courses, projects, or academic achievements that underscore your proficiency in important areas. This approach is beneficial for recent graduates or those with limited work experience. By connecting your educational background to the skills required for the job, you demonstrate to employers that you have a strong foundation in essential technical abilities.

• • Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Taxation, Auditing, Financial Reporting
• • Honors and Awards: Dean’s List (2018-2020), Accounting Honor Society
• • Capstone Project: Developed an advanced financial analysis and forecasting model, improving accuracy by 25%

By including specific coursework, the entry shows technical knowledge directly relevant to the role. Additionally, listing honors and awards demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence. Furthermore, detailing a senior project provides concrete examples of applying skills in real-world scenarios. This approach ensures that key hard skills are prominently displayed, giving recruiters a clear picture of the candidate's capabilities and their potential impact in the role.

Certifications

Certifications are a powerful way to validate your hard skills. They prove that you have received formal training and have met industry standards. Include any relevant certifications in your resume  to provide evidence of your expertise. Certifications can often be the deciding factor for employers looking to hire candidates with verified skills.

A dedicated skills section on your resume is the best option because it allows you to list your hard skills clearly and concisely. As recommended earlier, categorizing your skills makes them easy to scan and ensures you include those most relevant to the job you're applying for. This section serves as a quick reference for hiring managers to assess your technical qualifications.

Certainly, demonstrating hard skills on your resume is crucial, but it's equally important to highlight these skills in your cover letter and during interviews. In the next part of our guide, we'll focus on how to effectively present your hard skills across all stages of the job application process.

Some job offers ask for a cover letter . It's your chance to show why you’re the best fit for the job. It's an opportunity to underline your achievements and skills relevant to the role and the company. But you want to avoid sounding arrogant or self-centered when discussing your accomplishments. How do you keep the right tone? Here are some ideas.

• Align with the job description: Just like your resume, the most crucial aspect of a cover letter is customization. Tailor your cover letter for each job application by aligning your achievements and skills with the specific requirements of the role.
• Include specific examples: Demonstrate your achievements and skills with concrete examples from your work experience. Instead of vague statements, provide details showing how you applied your skills, solved problems, or contributed to the organization.
• Use storytelling :  Engage the reader by weaving your achievements into a compelling narrative. Instead of listing accomplishments, turn them into stories that highlight your journey and growth. For instance, describe a challenging project you led, how you tackled obstacles, and the successful outcomes, all while subtly integrating your hard skills.
• Utilize positive and confident language: The language you use in your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm, professionalism, and competence. Avoid words that undermine your accomplishments, like "just," "only," or "somewhat." Instead, use words that emphasize your strengths, like "effectively," "successfully," and "significantly."
• Express gratitude and interest:  End your cover letter on a positive note by expressing gratitude and interest in the opportunity. Thank the employer for their consideration and time, and show enthusiasm for the role and organization. Indicate that you’re eager to discuss your qualifications further in an interview. This demonstrates that you’re proud of your achievements but also humble and curious.

Craft a compelling cover letter with our builder  to guarantee your job application is spot on.

Now let's concentrate on the interview process and see how you can impress the interviewer.

• Demonstrate punctuality: Whether online or in person, always be on time or early to show your dependability and respect for the interviewer’s time. This sets a positive tone from the start.
• Be specific: Clearly describe the hard skills you possess and provide concrete examples of how you've applied them in previous roles.
• Quantify your achievements: You already know that whenever possible, it’s recommended to include real metrics.
• Practice your performance: Ensure you can confidently discuss your hard skills and their applications without sounding rehearsed. Practice with a friend or in front of a mirror.
• Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the role and how excited you are to apply your skills to benefit the company.
• Anticipate questions:   Be prepared for follow-up questions  about your skills and experiences. Think about potential challenges and how you’ve overcome them.
• Stay engaged: Ask specific follow-up questions during the interview to show you’re paying attention and are interested in the role. This helps you gather more information.

Many misconceptions about hard skills can hurt your job application. Let’s look at some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Include every hard skill you can think of: The biggest question is what skills to include on your resume. Most people throw in just everything they have. Remember, the HR officer has only seconds to decide if you are suitable for further screening. Focus on quality, not quantity. Include only skills that are relevant to the job posting.
• Include even hard skills you’re not proficient in: As mentioned, hard skills are easily tested and measured, so it is wise to avoid listing skills you don't fully master. If you're tested on a skill you're not proficient in, it could negatively impact your overall performance.
• Include even basic skills for bonus points: Don’t include generic skills like Internet , Computer, or MS Office unless the job specifically asks for them. These are expected from everyone today, just like reading and writing. If needed, be specific: list MySQL, CSS, WordPress, HTML, etc.

When listing foreign languages on your resume, exclude those with Beginner (A1), Elementary (A2), or Pre-intermediate (A2/B1) proficiency. Instead, highlight languages where you have Intermediate (B1/B2), Advanced (C1), or Fluent (C2) proficiency to showcase your strong communication skills.

What is the difference between hard skills vs. soft skills?

Hard skills are technical skills that are learned through education or training and can be quantified. Soft skills , on the other hand, are interpersonal or people skills that are harder to measure, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Which careers rely heavily on hard skills?

Careers in software development, healthcare, engineering, accounting and finance, data science, IT, graphic design, manufacturing, marketing, and construction rely heavily on hard skills. Each field requires specific technical abilities and expertise.

How do I keep my hard skills up to date?

Stay current by taking continuing education courses, attending workshops, and obtaining relevant certifications. Regular practice and staying informed about industry trends also help.

• Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities or knowledge sets that employees can demonstrate in a measured way.
• Employers love hard skills because they show you can handle job-specific duties or meet the demands of a specific role.
• Adding measurable achievements to hard skills can enhance your resume.
• Having up-to-date hard skills shows you're committed to learning and growing in your career.
• Education, training, and hands-on experience are essential for developing hard skills.
• Hard skills are valuable in many industries so identify your strengths and continue to refine them for greater career opportunities.

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20 Hard Skills Examples to Showcase Your Expertise on a Resume

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Your hard skills are more important than ever. This is because of a growing trend in the world of recruitment called skills-based hiring . This approach emphasizes a job candidate’s skills and abilities over their education or work history.

According to a LinkedIn report, 75 percent of hiring managers say that skills-based hiring will be a priority at their company in the coming year.

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about hard skills: what they are, why they’re crucial for your career, and how you can develop them.

Also, we’ll give you many examples. They will help you apply hard skills in real situations and feature them on your resume.

What are hard skills?

Hard skills are knowledge or expertise that you learn them through education or on-the-job experience. A skill is considered hard if it can be easily measured or tested.

Hard skills include things like data analysis. They also include video editing, computer programming, or speaking a foreign language.

The world is becoming more specialized. Hard skills make you more employable. They show that you have the practical knowledge and technical ability to do the job.

Hard skills examples

Here are some of the most in-demand hard skills in the job market right now:

• Bilingual or multilingual
• Adobe software suite
• Network security
• SEO/SEM marketing
• Statistical analysis
• Data mining
• Programming languages (like Perl, Python, Java, and Ruby)
• Payroll accounting
• Microsoft Excel
• Video editing
• Heavy equipment operation
• Graphic design
• User experience (UX) design/ User interface (UI) design
• Google Analytics
• Auto repair
• Photography
• Social media and marketing management
• Blog writing
• Project management
• Event planning

How to acquire hard skills

While you can learn hard skills by pursuing a degree or working, you can also teach yourself. Gaining hard skills often involves dedication and practice. You need to be consistent in your learning efforts to become proficient.

Formal education

Attending university or college is a traditional way to acquire hard skills. Many institutions offer specialized courses tailored to specific career paths. Besides having the education accomplishments listed on your resume, these courses provide structured learning and expert guidance. For example, a computer science degree teaches programming and software development.

Read more: How to Format Your Resume Education Section

Online courses

There are plenty of online platforms, like Coursera , Udemy , and LinkedIn Learning , that offer courses on various hard skills. These platforms allow you to learn at your own pace and convenience. You can choose from a wide range of subjects to suit your career goals. Online courses often include interactive content and assessments to test your knowledge.

Certifications

Certifications can validate your hard skills and make you stand out to employers. Examples include CompTIA for IT pros. Also, PMP for project managers, and Google Analytics for marketers. These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to your field. They are recognized by many employers and can enhance your resume.

Read more: 75+ Free Certifications to Help You Land Your Dream Job

On-the-job training

Many hard skills are best learned through hands-on experience. Internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions provide practical knowledge and skills. These opportunities allow you to apply what you have learned in real-world situations. Working alongside experienced professionals helps you gain insights and improve your abilities.

Self-study involves learning through books, tutorials, and practice. This method re e quires discipline but allows you to gain expertise in your own time. You can focus on topics that interest you and learn at your own pace. Self-study is a flexible way to develop hard skills without formal education.

We can help you create a top-tier resume in just a few clicks.

The importance of hard skills

Hard skills are crucial for career growth, employability, and job performance. They demonstrate your ability to perform specific tasks required for a job. Having strong hard skills can set you apart from other candidates. Employers value these skills because they directly impact job success.

Employability

Possessing in-demand hard skills makes you a desirable candidate in the job market. Employers seek candidates who can contribute immediately to their organization. Hard skills can help you secure job offers and increase your chances of employment. They show that you have the expertise needed to perform the job well.

Job performance

Hard skills enable you to perform your job effectively and efficiently. They ensure you meet industry standards and achieve professional goals. With strong hard skills, you can complete tasks accurately and on time. This leads to better job performance and job satisfaction.

Impact on career growth

Having relevant hard skills can lead to promotions and career advancement. Employers are more likely to invest in employees who have the skills necessary to take on higher responsibilities. As you acquire more skills, you can qualify for more advanced roles. Continuous learning helps you stay competitive in your field.

Hard skills vs. soft skills

While hard skills can be learned in class or on the job, soft skills are personal attributes that help you work with other people. In fact, soft skills are often called “people skills”.

Soft skills include communication , time management , organization , collaboration, and critical thinking .

Soft skills are also transferable . This means they can be used in any type of job in any field. This isn’t the case with hard skills.

Hard and soft skills are different, but both are important. Having a variety of hard and soft skills on your resume shows you’re a well-rounded candidate.

How to find hard skills to put on your resume

How do you know which hard skills you should add to your resume? Just read the description of the job you’re applying to.

Here’s an example of a job description with some important skills and requirements underlined:

If you were applying to this job, adding the underlined hard skills to your resume would greatly increase your chances of getting an interview.

Adding the right skills to your resume is crucial these days because most companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to streamline the hiring process.

When you submit your application it goes right into an ATS database. Hiring managers then search through the database for suitable job candidates by typing in keywords. These keywords are usually skills or job titles.

If your resume contains the keywords , or skills, the hiring manger is searching the ATS for, it will be found. If your resume doesn’t contain these keywords, it will remain in the database, unseen.

How to tailor your resume

The rise of applicant tracking systems have made it more important than ever to tailor your resume . This means highlighting the skills and experiences that are relevant to a particular job opening.

Most job seekers create one resume that they send out with every application. But a single resume won’t contain the right keywords for most jobs. This prevents hiring managers from finding it as they s s earch the ATS.

Tailoring your resume for each job will get you better results. Unfortunately, it’s also time consuming. That’s why most people don’t do it.

To speed up the process, you can use an online tool like Jobscan’s resume scanner . This tool will allow you to create more highly-targeted resumes in less time.

To use the tool, just paste both your resume and the job description into the scanner and click “scan”. You’ll then receive a Match Report that shows exactly which keywords you should try to add to your resume to get that job.

Here’s an example of a Match Report that analyzed a resume and the job description for a medical administrator:

As you can see, while the resume that was analyzed does include important hard skills like “auditing” and “patient care”, it’s missing the most important hard skill of all, which is “billing”.

You must add the keyword “billing” to your resume if you want to get this job!

There’s no guesswork when you use Jobscan’s resume scanner . It tells you exactly how to optimize each resume you send out so it has the best chance of being found, and read, by a hiring manager.

Where to feature hard skills on your resume

There are four resume sections where you should try to add your hard skills:

1) Resume headline

Your resume headline is a one-line phrase located at the top of your resume, right beneath your contact information. The purpose of the headline is to quickly tell the hiring manager who you are.

Here’s an example of a resume headline with the hard skill “bilingual” in it:

2) Resume summary

Your resume summary appears right beneath your resume headline. Your summary is a brief statement that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements.

Here’s an example of a resume summary that features a variety of hard skills:

3) Skills section

The most obvious place to put your skills on your resume is your skills section . We recommend placing this section after your summary and before your work experience section.

You can either use bullet points to list your skills, or you can separate them by vertical bars (|) or some other separator. Here’s an example:

4) Work experience section

The work experience section is the heart of your resume and a great place to add your hard skills.

Always try to start each bullet point with an action verb , such as “Implemented”, “Initiated”, or “Spearheaded”.  Whenever possible, try to use numbers and metrics to describe your accomplishments.

Here’s an example of a work experience section with plenty of hard skills:

How to develop your hard skills

While you can learn hard skills by pursuing a degree or working, you can also teach yourself.

There are plenty of resources, like online courses, assessments, and certifications. These enable you to acquire new skills at your own pace and convenience.

For more information about online courses and certifications, read:

• 28+ Free Certifications to Add to Your Resume
• 16 High-Income Skills You Need On Your Resume

Examples of hard skills include data analysis, programming, graphic design, foreign language proficiency, machine operation, SEO, marketing, project management, accounting, social media management, and cybersecurity.

Some hard skills might be considered easier to learn because they may require less time to understand the basics or have more accessible learning resources available. Here are a few examples: • Computer skills • Social media management • Data entry • Office software • Customer Service software • Basic math • Language proficiency • Email communication • File management • Basic graphic design

First, identify the skills pertinent to your career or interests. Then enroll in online courses that teach those skills, attend workshops, and read relevant books and articles. You can also earn certifications to show employers that you have learned the skills they require.

Hard skills are learned skills that are job specific. They tend to be more technical, and they’re necessary for completing day-to-day work. Soft skills focus more on characteristics and personal attributes, like teamwork, communication, and time management. They translate across most fields and careers.

An example of a hard skill is proficiency in a programming language like Python or Java.

You can identify your hard skills by reviewing your educational background, work experience, and any certifications or training you have completed.

Hard skills can be learned through formal education, online courses, certifications, and hands-on experience.

Hard skills should be included in the skills section, professional summary, and work experience section of your resume.

Hard skills are essential because they demonstrate your ability to perform job-specific tasks and are often required qualifications for job positions.

Content Writer at Jobscan.

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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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Hard Skills for a Resume: Tips and Examples for 17 Popular Careers

If you are searching for tips on what hard skills to put on a resume and the best hard skills examples, you’ve landed on the right page. Whatever industry you are in and no matter what career you are pursuing, in this article, you’ll find valuable information that will help you outshine the competition.

Table of Contents

What Are Hard Skills?

Hard skills are job-specific competencies and abilities that enable you to perform work-related responsibilities and duties, such as software development, database management or tax accounting. Hard skills are also called technical skills and are related to the essence of your profession. You can gain them through hands-on experience, education and training.

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills

One of the easiest ways to distinguish between hard skills and soft skills is to focus on their nature. Hard skills are quantifiable, meaning you can provide numerical evidence that you have them, and are developed through learning and on-the-job experience, meaning they take time and effort to acquire. Some examples of hard skills are coding, budgeting and network administration.

While hard skills are about what you do, soft skills are more about how you do it. They refer to your personal traits, represent habits and behaviors and define the way you work and communicate with others. Although soft skills can – and should – be developed in life and at work, they are often inherent, and individuals usually hone them over time rather than learn them from scratch. Examples of soft skills are stress management, teamwork and adaptability.

Soft skills are often called transferable skills as they can be utilized in any industry. For instance, the ability to think critically will make you a valuable asset to any company. Hard skills are also portable in some situations: for example, language proficiency is something that can prove helpful in many jobs related to communication, trade and science. Nonetheless, hard skills are usually non-transferable, which means they can only be used in one area. Cash-flow planning is a case in point here as it is applied only in accounting.

When it comes to resume-building, hard skills can be introduced effortlessly due to them being measurable. In most cases, it is easier to attach an outcome to a hard skill than to a soft skill. Besides, you will not find any difficulty in adding skill levels for hard skills and listing related certifications , making your resume more results-oriented.

What you should keep in mind is that your resume should display the right combination of hard and soft skills to make an impact. According to LinkedIn’s research , soft skills are on the rise as a key factor for workplace success, yet recruiters always scan resumes for specific hard skills related to the jobs they post. For your resume to tick all the boxes, you need to list all the hard and soft skills relevant to the job you are hunting for and illustrate them with proper examples.

The Top 10 Hard Skills to Put on Your Resume in 2023

Computer skills.

From blockchain to cloud computing to artificial intelligence, computer-related competencies are the most in-demand hard skills according to LinkedIn. As stated in The Balance’s research, basic computer literacy is no longer optional for candidates, and The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the overall number of computer and IT jobs to increase by 15 percent between 2021 and 2031, which is much faster than what it forecasts for the average of all occupations. These facts highlight the importance of having computer skills in 2023, and here are a few types of them:

• Software development
• Programming
• Machine learning
• Natural language processing
• Cybersecurity
• IT troubleshooting
• Productivity software
• Content management
• Cloud computing
• Mobile development
• Internet of things (IoT)
• Artificial intelligence

Computer skills on your resume should be introduced in a way that allows recruiters to see that you can bring results and push things forward. For instance, you can write that you

“automated the company’s data collection system, which resulted in a 33% increase in productivity”.

Data Analysis Skills

According to Statista, today industries heavily rely on data-driven decision-making , with banking, insurance and telecom in the lead. Data analytics has been changing the business landscape over the years, with the global demand for data analysts expected to increase by 23 percent between 2021 and 2031. Here are types of analytical skills that can boost your career and help you land your next job if listed on your resume:

• Data processing
• Database management
• Statistical programming
• Probability and statistics
• Statistical visualization
• Econometrics

If you want to highlight your analytical abilities when crafting a resume, you need to provide specific examples, like

“wrote a Python script to scrape Tweets from profiles using Twitter’s official API”

“used Tableau to perform the sorting, comparing and analyzing of sales data over time”.

Marketing Skills

In today’s digital world, marketing is all about promoting products, services and concepts online, so marketing skills are applied through virtual communication and digital platforms. If you are a digital marketer seeking for a new job, consider including the following types of hard skills in your resume:

• Content marketing
• CRM knowledge
• CSM knowledge
• A/B testing
• Pay-per-click advertising
• Social media

When adding marketing skills to your resume, you need to be specific and provide context. For example, instead of listing “Edited website content” as one of your job duties, you could write,

“Edited blog content using HTML within the WordPress CMS.”

Design Skills

According to McKinsey, companies need to consistently deliver exceptional designs, which means that in today’s job market, employers are likely to fight for candidates with the proven ability to create compelling visual design. You can show that you are the best person to hire by illuminating the following types of hard skills on your resume:

• UI/UX design
• Color theory
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Composition
• Illustration
• Photography
• Photo editing
• Logo creation
• Layout and spacing

When putting design skills on your resume, you need to demonstrate that your work made a positive impact. An example could be that you “redesigned the XX app’s user interface using Adobe Creative Suite, which led to a 70 percent higher click-through rate.”

Language Skills

According to a Confederation of British Industry (CBI) survey, language skills open up many doors to job seekers. Therefore, we can safely assume that proficiency in foreign languages is something that can help you beat the competition and land a lucrative job.

On a resume, language skills are usually listed in a separate Languages section. You need to describe your language proficiency level using a recognized framework for language competency assessment such as CEFR. Besides, it is a good idea to incorporate your language skills into your work experience and show how they helped you succeed in the workplace. For example, you could write that you

“provided outstanding customer support in French to clients from Quebec with a 98% customer satisfaction rate.”

Management Skills

Management skills enable you to effectively lead a group of people towards a common goal. They are divided between soft and hard skills, the latter being our focus here. Here are some examples:

• Managerial psychology
• Coaching skills
• Forward planning

On your resume, your hard management skills can be illustrated the following way:

“Under my mentorship, our Scrum team managed to increase its average velocity by 25 percent.”

Writing Skills

The National Association of Colleges and Employers claims that 73,4 percent of companies and organizations need workers with strong writing skills. Thus, your ability to proficiently convey thoughts and ideas in written form makes you a valuable hire. You can showcase that by adding the following types of hard skills to your resume:

• Copywriting
• Translation
• Transcription
• Technical writing
• Proposal writing
• Press release writing
• Academic writing

You need to provide relevant examples with results when illuminating writing skills on your resume. For instance, you could let the reader know that you

“consistently applied thorough SEO writing practices, which resulted in page-one search results.”

Mathematical Skills

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the job market for mathematicians to grow 31 percent by 2031, meaning the demand for mathematical skills is rapidly increasing. Thus, whether you are pursuing a career related to pure mathematics or regularly engage in resolving real-world math problems at work, you need to create a resume that lets your mathematical skills shine when planning a job switch. Here are the types of mathematical skills you can include in your resume:

• Math concepts
• Mental mathematics
• Mathematical reasoning
• Discrete mathematics
• Mathematical analysis
• Measuring profit or pay

Your mathematical skill set should be properly reflected on your resume and demonstrate that you can approach specific problems with it. For instance, you could expand on how you

“built a mathematical model to predict sales figures using historical transaction data.”

Accounting Skills

According to the Hays UK Salary & Recruiting Trends 2018 guide, 76% of employers find it challenging to fill positions in accounting and finance, meaning individuals with advanced accounting skills are highly sought after by recruiters. If you are an accountant deciding on the best hard skills for a resume, you could focus on the following:

• Financial reporting
• Financial modeling
• Accounts payable and accounts receivable

You can make your accounting skills more compelling by accompanying them with numbers and data. You could use something like this as an example:

“Performed account analyses for assets totaling over $20M.”

Project Management Skills

Project management skills allow you to control and supervise the progress of a project. According to CNBC Make, project management skills are in high demand these days, resulting in tempting job offers and lucrative paychecks. This makes the following types of skills a welcome addition to your resume:

• Project planning
• Project control
• Project scheduling
• Business analysis
• Knowledge of project management methodologies
• Project budgeting
• Risk management
• Cost management
• Task management

Use your resume to illuminate your project management skills with relevant examples. You could write something like this to prove that you are an effective project manager:

“Directed project cycles and coordinated team schedules to deliver 99% of projects in time”.

Hard Skills for Popular Careers in 2023

Wondering how to effectively navigate today’s dynamic job market? Here is our list of popular careers in 2023 with relevant hard skills for a resume:

Software Developer

A software developer designs, builds, deploys, and supports computer programs of all sorts. According to Statista, software developers are generously paid for their work and the software development industry keeps growing rapidly.

The top hard skills for a software developer in 2023 include cloud development & cloud security, DevOps, IT automation, full-stack development, and coding languages. If your resume displays something like

“Created 40+ new features for our mobile app using Java and Kotlin, which increased the user base by 20%,”

you are an attractive candidate capable of winning out the job competition.

Data Scientist

According to Business Insider, employment for data scientists – experts whose job is to extract, analyze and interpret large amounts of data from various sources using complex technical methods and tools – is projected to grow 31.4% by 2030 .

To succeed in this kind of career, you need to be proficient in data analysis, visualization and modeling, math, statistics, and coding (Java/Python). When adding such hard skills to your resume, make sure to be more specific about related outcomes. You can achieve that by writing something like this:

“Performed predictive modeling to forecast pain points in our trading platform and optimized existing algorithms to correct unclear platform roadmaps, which resulted in a 60% bounce rate reduction.”

Marketing Specialist

A marketing specialist is responsible for implementing the full spectrum of marketing activities within a particular area of marketing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts consistent growth in employment for marketing specialists, so there is no wonder in someone’s desire to highlight job-specific marketing skills on a resume.

SEO, social media, marketing analysis, knowledge of marketing tools, CMS, and CRM are among the top hard skills to put on a resume if you are a marketing expert. To prove your worth to a potential employer, you could write something like

“Improved the conversion rate by 17% by identifying the problematic areas of the conversion funnel and introducing effective data-driven recommendations.”

Project Manager

A project manager is responsible for planning and organizing people and resources towards completing a project within time and budget. Project management is a popular career these days since 89% of companies have at least one project management office.

To become a successful project manager, you need to be able to plan, schedule, control, and supervise projects. Your resume is expected to demonstrate your accomplishments, such as

“Supervised a team of 10 developers to re-architect a web app, increasing the company’s yearly revenue by 40%.”

Blockchain Engineer

A blockchain engineer implements and creates blockchain solutions for enterprises and organizations. Since blockchain is taking over the world, the demand for such specialists is growing.

To have a successful career as a blockchain engineer, you need to know how to use blockchain development tools, how the blockchain architecture works, and how to encrypt data. Other important hard skills for a blockchain developer include

• an in-depth understanding of data structures, consensus algorithms, smart contracts, and blockchain platforms;
• the basics of back-end and front-end development; and
• expertise in programming languages (like Java, Python, and C++).

On your resume, you need to show that your blockchain skills can make an impact. For instance, you could share something like this:

“Boosted the platform’s efficiency by 20% by integrating 5 new tools into it.”

An auditor checks financial records and procedures of organizations to confirm their accuracy and efficiency. According to Northeastern University, audit is one of the top financial and accounting careers, with a 10-year projected growth of 7%.

An auditor’s hard skills include a firm grasp of economics, accounting, math, financial reporting, and tax. To show them on your resume and impress recruiters, remember to add results, like

“Recovered over $20M in overcharges for more than 120 clients.”

Sales Manager

Companies need to move their products to users, so sales managers are consistently in demand in the job market. They spearhead sales teams and lead them to reach sales targets. For this, sales managers need certain hard skills, including sales process proficiency, the ability to create effective sales strategies, familiarity with CRM and other sales-related software, and the ability to analyze sales performance metrics. A successful sales manager’s resume should reflect their achievements, providing examples like

“Supervised a team of 10 sales reps, which achieved a 30% increase in departmental sales over a year.”

Nurses care for sick and injured individuals and patients with physical disabilities. Nurse practitioners are in high demand as of now, and this demand is projected to grow.

Nurses should be proficient in patient assessment, CPR and BLS, medication management, patient safety, and infection control, to name but a few. If you are a nurse, you could strengthen your resume with hard skills and relevant examples, such as

“Communicated healthcare instructions to more than 200 hospital patients per month, ensuring that all their treatment goals are achieved.”

Psychologist

A psychologist studies the human mind and applies their knowledge to help people solve real-life problems. Demand for psychologists is expected to increase with time, so this kind of career seems very promising in 2023.

A psychologist is expected to have a solid set of hard skills like a firm grasp of psychological and cognitive science fundamentals, proficiency in statistical research methods and quantitative reasoning, and clinical reasoning skills, among others. When highlighting such skills on your resume, you need to be specific, like in this example:

“Coordinated mental health care and treatment for more than 60 patients afflicted with bi-polar disorder.”

Nutritionist

Nutritionists share scientific, evidence-based information related to food and its effects on the well-being of humans and provide relevant guidance. Employment for nutritionists is growing , so this career can help you thrive in today’s job landscape.

You need to have certain hard skills to succeed as a nutritionist. They include proficiency in dietetics, nutrition, wellness, fitness, and public health and expertise in nutrition-related areas of psychology and medicine.

To prove that you are a seasoned nutritionist, you need to include examples of applying the most relevant hard skills in your resume. For instance, you could expand on how you

“developed meal plans for 100+ individuals based on recipes highly tailored to each individual’s nutritional needs.”

Speech and Language Therapist

Speech and language therapists help individuals with speaking and communication problems and difficulties. Demand for these specialists is projected to grow rapidly, much faster than the average for other jobs.

The most important hard skills for a resume if you are looking for a position in this field are as follows: knowledge of speech-language pathology, understanding of learning difficulties and difficulties in producing sounds, and the ability to provide help to patients with vocal disorders, selective mutism, and hearing impairment. You can highlight these skills by utilizing relevant examples, like

“exceeded patient targets for speech development by an average of 20 percent per month.”

Child Care Provider

The demand for child care services is increasing, so child care providers stand a high chance of landing high-paid positions. If you want to craft a winning child care provider resume, consider adding the following hard skills: child care, knowledge of psychology, crisis intervention, childhood education, and basic knowledge of medicine. You need to weave your hard skills into relevant examples for your resume to make more impact: for instance, you could write that you

“prepared 300+ children for kindergarten using highly tailored educational materials.”

A dentist provides health care by diagnosing and treating oral health problems. According to CNBC Make It, dentistry is a lucrative career with excellent employment opportunities.

To find a job, a dentist needs to be able to conduct initial dental assessments, remove dental deposits, take X-rays, perform restorative and cosmetic procedures, take dental impressions, and maintain dental equipment. On their resume, a dentist is expected to provide relevant hard skills examples illustrating that their work brings value, such as

“Performed corrective care and developed treatment plans for 10-12 adult patients per day, increasing client satisfaction by 70 percent.”

UI/UX Designer

UI/UX designers create meaningful, accessible and aesthetically appealing user interface and user experience design in order to create a positive customer experience. Employment for such specialists is predicted to grow fast, so job seekers who have the following hard skills are likely to get hired quickly: design skills and a firm grasp of design tools, knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software, analytical thinking skills, and math knowledge. On your resume, you need to describe your design skills using relevant examples, such as

“Designed a website, which totaled 100,000+ unique visitors per day.”

As an architect, you’ll design new buildings and spaces around them and conserve and restore existing buildings. The outlook for architect jobs seems to be quite stable, and this kind of career is extremely fulfilling for people who love to create things and see the results of their work.

An architect’s resume is supposed to display hard skills such as architecture, industrial design, advanced calculations, estimating, budgeting, conceptualization, drafting, drawing, design concepts, architectural rendering, visualization, sustainable design, model making, CAD, AutoCAD, etc. On a resume, they can be illustrated with specific examples, like

“Used AutoCAD to create innovative designs for 100+ clients, increasing client satisfaction with the company by 67%.”

Human Resources Specialist

HR professionals perform the full spectrum of activities related to human resources, such as recruiting and onboarding new workers, maintaining employee records, and preparing compensation and benefits packages, among other functions, and they are in steady demand.

An HR specialist should have solid knowledge of full-cycle recruiting, retention, payroll processing , labor legislation and employment law, and health and life insurance programs. If you are an HR expert willing to strengthen your resume, you can illuminate your hard skills by quantifying them. For example, you could describe your previous workplace duties in a way like this:

“Administered 100 percent of recruitment phases and increased employee retention by 70%.”

English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Teacher

An EFL teacher helps students learn English or improve their English language skills. With so many English language learners around the world, it’s no wonder that employment for EFL teachers keeps growing.

If you provide English language instruction to non-native speakers, your skill set should include English teaching, curriculum development, lesson planning, classroom management, and experience in teaching English as a foreign language (EFL). It is essential that your resume reflects such hard skills along with relevant examples, like

“Planned and designed 300+ individualized education plans for beginner students from various cultural backgrounds and prepared them for intermediate level exams, resulting in 99,8% positive test scores.”

How to List Hard Skills on a Resume

A resume is a document whose main goal is to help you land a job. For it to attract interviews and offers, you need to list your hard skills in an effective and compelling way. You can do that by following our guide:

• Customize your hard skills to the job you are applying for – employers don’t want to see anything unrelated to the positions they advertise.
• Highlight your most prominent skills. There is no need to clutter your resume with minor details or things that are pretty obvious.
• Focus on the results of your work. Providing vague descriptions or generic explanations won’t help you get hired, but proving your worth as an expert with impressive achievements will certainly do the trick.
• Create a separate Skills section and fill it with hard skills most relevant to the job ad you are responding to. Scanning the job post for specific keywords could help you with this.
• Highlight your hard skills in the employment history section using related accomplishments and achievements.
• Add a few key hard skills to your professional summary (the top paragraph on your resume).
• Include transferable skills that fit the job description.
• Add proficiency levels for measurable skills to communicate your expertise in the most convincing way.
• Include relevant certifications and publications to validate your hard skills.

Hard Skill FAQs

How can i identify my hard skills.

You can easily identify your hard skills using the following tips:

• Analyze your current position and previous occupations and focus on your job-specific duties and responsibilities. You surely possess a professional set of skills to tackle them.
• Reflect on your education and training experience. Most academic and professional programs provide their students with industry-specific knowledge.
• Think about your daily life – chances are your routines involve certain hard skills.
• Talk to your colleagues, peers, teachers, and friends to get an outside perspective.

How Many Hard Skills to Include in My Resume?

We recommend you to list about 5-7 hard skills and add 3-4 relevant soft skills to balance your resume.

What Hard Skills Can I Put on an Entry-Level Resume?

If you have no professional experience, focus on the hard skills you have acquired at school or in your personal life. Just make sure to list them only if they are relevant to the job you want.

How Can I Improve My Hard Skills?

Here are a few tips that will help you boost your hard skills:

• Practice makes perfect, so practice regularly. It takes time and effort to hone a hard skill.
• Receive feedback. Constructive criticism will help you detect your weak points and work on them.
• Enroll in a course or a degree program. This way, you will meet instructors and mentors ready to help you and individuals with similar interests and aspirations. You can also learn via online tutorials.

Should I Put Hard Skills on a Cover Letter?

A great cover letter that matches your resume and highlights your most valuable hard skills will boost your job search. You can share concrete examples both in the opening and body paragraphs. The opening paragraph is the best place to expand on your most prominent skill along with how it helped you achieve results and bring value to the table. Tell a personal story showing what you have accomplished and how your hard skills have led you to success.

Key Takeaways

Hard skills are job-specific competencies and knowledge that you can learn and measure. Having the right set of hard skills is a non-negotiable requirement for the majority of jobs today, so putting them on your resume is a must if you want to get hired.

Hard skills help you show your level of expertise and can even make up for lack of experience in some cases. No matter the industry you are in, you need to keep your hard skills up to date if you want to stay afloat in a sea of competition. Therefore, you should hone them at every stage of your life.

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Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills: List of Best Examples for the Workplace

What is a Hard Skill?

What is a soft skill, examples of hard skills for the resume, how to balance hard skills and soft skills on the resume.

During the resume-building process, many job seekers struggle to identify the right hard and soft skills to include in their application. Although each organization will have unique needs and desired skill sets, it’s often advantageous to balance your technical expertise and leadership capabilities as you craft your bullet points. Hiring managers are drawn to well-rounded candidates who possess hard qualifications but can also thrive in collaborative, team-based environments. Showcasing a mix of hard skills and your interpersonal skills can often make all the difference in whether a company brings you in for an interview. Throughout this guide, we’ll compare and contrast each type of skill and walk you through how to effectively incorporate them into your resume.

A hard skill is traditionally categorized as any technical aptitude or activity you perform within your daily workflows. While all forms of technology, programming languages, and software fall under this banner, hard skills extend far beyond just the tech space. Project management methodologies, industry regulations, and financial terminology are also considered hard skills. The key to identifying appropriate hard skills on your resume is to carefully evaluate the needs of the organization you’re applying for and perform research on cutting-edge terms within your industry. Not only will this align your resume with the Applicant Tracking System (ATS), but it will also help you to brand yourself as a thought leader within your space.

Unlike hard skills, which are technical in nature, soft skills are intended to highlight your communication, leadership, and interpersonal skill sets. Although showcasing your technical expertise is important, hiring managers also value candidates with a strong background in people management. That said, appropriate soft skills can sometimes be more difficult to identify. Many job seekers make the common mistake of including generic terms and empty cliches on their resumes. Most hiring managers will assume you have problem-solving skills, but they will not know you have expertise in client relations unless you express this in your content. Below, you’ll find a list of examples of soft skills you can use on your resume:

• Adaptability
• Client Relations
• Change Management
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Communication
• Customer Service
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
• Emotional Intelligence
• Employee Engagement
• Interpersonal Skills
• Organizational Leadership
• People Management
• Relationship Building
• Staff Development
• Team Building
• Team Management

To help you better understand what qualifies as a hard skill, we’ve put together a list of key terms you can incorporate into your resume. It’s important to know that hard skills differ significantly depending on your industry, so you’ll need to analyze job descriptions and conduct further research on emerging trends within your industry to address any gaps in your document. To provide you with further guidance and insights, we’ll be breaking down hard skills into additional categories to cover more ground across different industries.

Hard Skills for Technology Professionals

The tech space constantly evolves as companies deliver new innovative technologies, program languages, and software. While this list is incomplete, it does cover many important industry terms employers will likely want to see on your resume. To brand yourself as a thought leader within your field, you should always go the extra mile to incorporate deeper terminology when applicable. For example, instead of only mentioning machine learning and data science, you may want to include your expertise in deep learning, despite the term being less well known in some circles. If the right hiring manager sees that skill, it may make all the difference in whether you receive the job interview.

• Active Directory
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Cybersecurity
• Data Analysis
• Data Science
• Database Development
• Engineering Management
• Machine Learning
• Microsoft Azure
• Network Administration
• Information Architecture
• Information Technology
• Software Development Lifecycles (SDLC)
• Software Engineering
• System Administration

Hard Skills for Marketing & Finance Professionals

Now we’ll examine a different list of skill sets beyond those of the technology space. You’ll notice that while many of these skills don’t refer to software or data science, they are still technical in nature. As a financial analyst or accountant, understanding the nuances of specific financial regulations is essential for success in the position. As a marketing professional, understanding complex KPIs is important for measuring the success of social media campaigns and brand marketing initiatives. Featuring the right hard skills and qualifications is the first step in optimizing your document for the job search:

• A/B Testing
• Account-Based Marketing (ABM)
• Brand Marketing
• Campaign Development
• Cost Accounting
• Digital Marketing Strategy
• Digital Media
• Email Marketing
• Financial Analysis
• Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)
• Google Analytics
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• Lead Generation
• Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
• Marketing Research
• Paid Search Campaigns
• Product Marketing
• Profit & Loss (P&L)
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Social Media Marketing

Hard Skills for Project Managers & Supply Chain Managers

Project management skills are complex because many of the qualifications needed to oversee the successful delivery of projects fall under both hard and soft skill categories. In addition to understanding the complexities of Agile development methodologies and resource allocation, a project manager must also be able to lead cross-functional teams effectively. Achieving a balance between these two types of skill sets will maximize the resume’s impact during your job search. Below, you’ll find a list of hard skills for project managers and supply chain management professionals:

• Agile Methodology
• Budget Management
• Business Process Improvement
• Category Management
• Demand Forecasting
• ERP Systems
• Lean Manufacturing
• Operations Management
• Procurement
• Program Management
• Project Management
• Project Management Office (PMO)
• Project Roadmaps
• Quality Assurance
• Risk Management
• Stakeholder Management
• Strategic Sourcing
• Supplier Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Supply Chain Solutions

Now that we’ve explored a variety of hard skills across a broad range of industries, we’ll examine how to balance them with soft skills to paint a complete picture of who you are as a professional. Having the proper technical knowledge for the job is an important aspect of the application process. Still, you need to collaborate effectively with people to apply these skill sets effectively within an organization’s work culture. For more examples, visit our resource page featuring the most important skill sets that employers love to see on resumes.

Demonstrate Leadership Qualifications

Interpersonal and people management skills are applicable in almost any type of position you want to pursue, regardless of industry. In the example below, the job seeker uses both hard skills and soft skills to advantage to demonstrate their advanced technical knowledge while drawing attention to their ability to interface effectively with client stakeholders and internal project teams:

Managed 10+ enterprise-level projects for a technology solutions company, led cross-functional teams with over 25+ personnel, developed project roadmaps, and coordinated with client stakeholders to ensure alignment with business requirements.

Brand Yourself as a Strong Communicator

Prospective employers value candidates who communicate effectively with diverse customers and team members. In the example below, the candidate provides insights into how they were able to convey the technical benefits of products in accessible language for prospective customers to drive sales. This demonstrates their advanced technical knowledge and their ability to communicate these concepts to non-technical audiences:

Educated prospective clients on the benefits of the HR software products, conveyed high-level technical concepts in accessible language for non-technical audiences, and built long-term client relationships to generate $1.5M in revenue over four years

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Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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More From Forbes

10 interpersonal skills to put on your resume in 2024.

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Interpersonal skills are a non-negotiable for your resume, regardless of the job or its level of ... [+] people exposure

When it comes to deciding what to include and what to omit from your resume, skills are a non-negotiable.

Especially if you are applying for a promotion, making a career pivot, or transitioning into a different industry, skills are what make your resume count and hold weight in the eyes of employers, even more than merely listing out your education and experience.

"Over 40% of companies on LinkedIn globally explicitly rely on skills to search and identify job candidates on LinkedIn (up 20% year-over-year)," says Rohan Rajiv, LinkedIn's product lead on jobseeker, employer brand, and skills for LinkedIn Talent Solutions, speaking of the skills research tools that recruiters on LinkedIn use.

According to Rajiv, "showcasing your skills can give you a leg up in your job search." And this applies, even if you're entering the workforce for the first time, or re-entering after a lengthy hiatus.

You can have all the experience in the world and yet lose out on valuable career opportunities simply because you took the skills you gained through those experiences for granted, failed to mention them, and therefore no one knew that you possessed them at all.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, what skills do you need to include on your resume.

So what skills exactly should you be including on your resume (and LinkedIn profile)?

First, let's answer a preliminary question: What are the different types of skills that one should put on their resume?

Skills can be broadly divided into two core categories: soft skills, also more recently coined as power skills; and hard skills, also known as technical skills.

We can separate these two groups further, by classifying skills according to groups such as job-specific skills and competencies, interpersonal skills, high-income skills, and transferable skills. (Some of these entities will overlap.) Today, let's dig into interpersonal skills and why they are necessary in your resume.

Why Interpersonal Skills Should Be Included In Your Resume

Interpersonal skills, a subset of soft skills, is a set of strengths that are essential if you are to work and collaborate well with people. The thing about interpersonal skills is that, regardless of what job you're after, no matter how technical, they matter. This is because there is a 99% chance that you will be engaging with people at some point in your job—even if it an autonomous back-office role.

Whether engaging with your co-workers, building partnerships, closing a sale, voicing your suggestions in a meeting, or liaising with a stakeholder via email, interpersonal skills are the skeleton of authentic, trusting, and lasting work relationships. They enable all the gears of communication at work to run smoothly, reducing delays and misunderstandings.

Smart hiring managers know that assessing one's interpersonal skills through analyzing a candidate's resume, LinkedIn profile, interview answers, and overall presence and engagement throughout the entire recruitment process, can provide solid indications of whether a candidate would make a good culture fit for the company.

This is even more the case when applying for a remote job, as you are forced to use your interpersonal skills even more—online—and if you haven't developed them, it will show.

10 Interpersonal Skills To Include In Your Resume In 2024

Here are a few of the most essential interpersonal skills you need to include and list examples of, throughout your resume, LinkedIn profile, and job application. This data has been compiled from a range of sources, including recent reports, surveys, and data from LinkedIn's research team, the World Economic Forum, and Coursera.

And of course, remember to only include these interpersonal skills throughout your resume if you feel that they truly reflect you, and are relevant (which in most cases, they are):

• Communication skills
• Emotional intelligence
• Leadership skills
• Conflict resolution
• Problem-solving
• Active listening
• Negotiation
• Networking skills

Smart hiring managers know that how a candidate displays their interpersonal skills throughout the ... [+] recruitment process, is a strong indicator of how they will fit in with the company culture and ethics

Don't forget, when listing these interpersonal skills in your resume, or when answering a culture-focused interview question, provide some context to demonstrate how you applied them in prior roles. This real-world experience that showcases these skills as being your strengths is one of your greatest assets when applying for a role—and especially on LinkedIn.

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The Complete List of 270+ In-Demand Technical Skills for Your Resume [2024 Guide]

Without showcasing the relevant skills for a resume, you risk being overlooked by potential employers who prioritize candidates with the necessary expertise. We’re walking through the specific technical skills you can learn and showcase to employers, making sure you don’t miss out on career opportunities.

A Comprehensive List of Computer and Technical Skill Examples for Your Resume

Some of the in-demand skills to consider are proficiency in programming and content management systems, experience in web development, and basic marketing skills. Showing examples of technical skills or hard skills can also improve the chances of a hiring manager considering you for the position.

Creating a resume and searching for a new job can be challenging. That’s why we’re offering these practical tips and examples of effectively showcasing your technical skills on your resume. By highlighting your abilities in the most relevant and impactful way, you increase your chances of landing the job of your dreams.

In today’s digital age, the best technical skills have become beneficial in almost every industry. To stand out in a competitive job market, it’s important to highlight your technical expertise on your resume.

Whether you’re just starting in your career or a seasoned professional, having a comprehensive list of technical skills on your resume can help demonstrate your value to potential employers.

Any skills you’ve mastered from the comprehensive list of computer and technical skills below can be included on your resume. They’re broken down by popular industries such as engineering, sales, construction, etc.

With a well-rounded understanding of the common technical skills in demand, your resume skills section can effectively showcase your expertise and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

1. Network and Systems Administration

• Network protocols (DHCP, TCP/IP, DNS)
• Network configuration and administration (Juniper devices, Cisco)
• Network security principles and technologies (VPNs, Firewalls)
• Network monitoring and troubleshooting tools (Nagios, Wireshark)
• Operating systems (Linux, Windows Server)
• Virtualization technologies (Hyper-V, VMware)
• Scripting languages for automatic tasks (Bash, PowerShell)
• Server hardware and network infrastructure components

2. Engineering

• AutoCAD (AutoCAD software)
• 3D printing (Stratasys, Ultimaker, MakerBot)
• Project management (Microsoft Project, Trello, Asana)
• Product design (SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, Pro/Engineer)
• CAD/CAM (Mastercam, CATIA, NX)
• Finite Element Analysis (ANSYS, ABAQUS, LS-DYNA)
• Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) (GibbsCAM, PowerMill, HSMWorks)
• Rapid Prototyping (ZBrush, Rhino, Pixologic)
• Electrical Design (Altium Designer, Proteus, CircuitMaker)
• Mechanical Engineering (MATLAB, Mathcad , Octave)
• Robotics (ROS, Gazebo, V-REP)
• Simulation (Simulation CFD, SimulationX, SimScale)
• Energy Analysis (eQuest, EnergyPlus, DesignBuilder)
• Visualization and 3D Modeling (Blender, 3DS Max, SketchUp)

3. Cybersecurity Analysis

• Cybersecurity frameworks and standards (ISO 27001, NIST)
• Network security protocols and technologies (SIEM, IDS/IPS)
• Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing tools (Metasploit, Nessus)
• Incident response procedures
• Forensic analysis techniques

4. Information Technology

• Project management tools and methodologies (Waterfall, Agile, Microsoft Project, Jira)
• Programming languages (Java, C++, Python)
• Data analysis and visualization (Tableau, SQL)
• Cloud computing (Azure, AWS)
• Risk and change control processes
• Cybersecurity and network security
• Budgeting and resource allocation in IT projects

5. Software Development and Cloud Engineering

• Programming languages (Java, JavaScript, Python, C++)
• Software development frameworks (Django, Angular, React)
• Database management systems (MongoDB, MySQL)
• Containerization technologies (Kubernetes, Docker)
• Infrastructure-as-code tools (CloudFormation, Terraform)
• Version control systems (SVN, Git)
• Cloud platforms (Azure, Google Cloud, AWS)
• Cloud security best practices and monitoring tools

6. Data Science and Database Analytics

• Machine learning (Python, R, TensorFlow)
• Data visualization (Tableau, Power BI, QlikView)
• Big data (Hadoop, Spark, Storm)
• Data analysis (R, Python, SQL)
• Data warehousing (Redshift, Snowflake, Teradata)
• Data engineering (Airflow, Apache Nifi, Apache Beam)
• Data governance (Collibra, Informatica MDM, Talend MDM)
• Data modeling (ERwin, Power Designer, Toad Data Modeler)
• Data security (Apache Ranger, Apache Knox, Apache Sentry)
• Data management (Data Governance, Fundamentals of Data Management, Master Data Management)
• Database design, normalization, and optimization techniques
• Database security measures
• Backup and recovery procedures

7. Sales and Retail

• CRM software (Salesforce, Hubspot, Zoho)
• Sales forecasting (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, SAP)
• Market analysis (IBISWorld, Nielsen, Euromonitor)
• Negotiation skills ( Getting to Yes , Never Split the Difference, The Negotiation Book)
• Email marketing skills (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, AWeber)
• Lead generation (LinkedIn Sales Navigator, Leadfeeder, LeadSquared)
• Sales analytics (GoodData, Mixpanel, Klipfolio)
• Point of Sales (POS) systems
• E-commerce platforms and website development
• Inventory management software
• Presentation tools (PowerPoint, Keynote, Prezi)
• Social media management (Hootsuite, Buffer, Sprout Social)
• Sales forecasting (Forecast.it, Vora, PlanSo)
• Customer management (Insightly, Zendesk, Pipedrive)
• Telecommunication (Avaya, RingCentral, Cisco)
• Sales pipeline management (Pipedrive, HubSpot, Close.io)
• Virtual selling (Zoom, GoToMeeting, BlueJeans)

8. Marketing

• Email marketing (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, Campaign Monitor)
• Search engine optimization (SEO, Moz, SEMrush)
• Digital advertising (Google AdWords, Facebook Ads, LinkedIn Ads)
• Analytics (Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, Piwik)
• Content management (WordPress, ChatGPT , Squarespace, Wix)
• Social media management (Hootsuite, Sprout Social, Buffer)
• Marketing automation (Hubspot, Pardot, Marketo)
• Influencer marketing (AspireIQ, Julius, Traackr)
• Video production (Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve)
• Market research (Google Trends, SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics)
• Graphic design (Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)

9. Construction and Homebuilding

• Blueprint reading (Autodesk AutoCAD, Procore, PlanGrid)
• Project scheduling (Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana)
• Safety regulations (OSHA 30-Hour Construction Outreach Training Program, SafetySkills, 360training)
• Heavy equipment operation (Caterpillar, Komatsu, John Deere)
• Building information modeling ( Autodesk Revit, ArchiCAD, Tekla )
• Cost estimating (MC2, On Center Software, Timberline)
• Survey equipment (Trimble, Topcon, Leica)
• Concrete and masonry design (RISA, RAM Concept, SAP2000)
• Electrical design (AutoCAD Electrical, Eplan, Solid Edge)
• Building energy analysis (AutoDesk Green Building Studio, EnergyPlus, eQuest)
• Construction management (Procore, PlanGrid, BuilderTREND)
• Site planning and design (AutoCAD Civil 3D, SketchUp, ArcGIS)
• Scaffold design (Scaffold Designer, SafeSmart Access, Modulift)
• Equipment rental (Rental 360, Rental Easy, Equipment Management Solutions)

10. Purchasing and Supply Chain

• Supplier management (SAP Ariba, Oracle, Procurify)
• Contract negotiation (Getting to Yes, Never Split the Difference, Negotiating the Nonnegotiable)
• Cost analysis (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, SAP)
• Inventory control (Fishbowl Inventory, SAP Business One, QuickBooks Enterprise)
• Demand forecasting (IBM Cognos, SAP APO, Oracle Demantra)
• Freight and transportation management (JDA Transportation Management, SAP TM, Oracle Transportation Management)
• Risk management
• Procurement (SAP Ariba, Oracle Procurement Cloud, Procurify)
• Quality control (Quality Control, Fundamentals of Quality Control, Supply Chain Quality Control)
• Supply chain analytics (IBM Watson Supply Chain, SAP SCM, Oracle SCM Cloud)
• Global trade management (GT Nexus, Amber Road, Integration Point)

11. Manufacturing

• Lean Six Sigma (Six Sigma Green Belt, Six Sigma Black Belt, Six Sigma Yellow Belt)
• Production planning (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, SAP)
• Process improvement (Lean Manufacturing, Total Quality Management, Theory of Constraints)
• Quality control (ISO 9001, Total Quality Management, Six Sigma)
• CAD/CAM (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Pro/Engineer)
• Machine operation (Fanuc, Siemens, Mitsubishi)
• Maintenance management (SAP PM, Maximo, Oracle EAM)
• Material handling (Dematic, KION Group, Toyota Material Handling)

12. Logistics

• Transportation planning (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, SAP)
• Route optimization (Route4Me, Roadnet Technologies, OptimoRoute)
• Supply chain management (SAP, Oracle, Infor)
• Warehouse management ( Fishbowl Inventory , SAP Business One, QuickBooks Enterprise)
• Fleet management (Verizon Connect, Fleetmatics, Teletrac Navman)
• Logistics software (WMS, TMS, LTL) Load board (DAT, Loadsmart, uShip)
• Freight tracking (FedEx Tracking, UPS Tracking, DHL Tracking)
• International trade (ImportGenius, TradeIQ, Panjiva)
• Customs compliance (Aquatic, Amber Road, Integration Point)

13. Finance and Accounting

• Financial modeling (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, SAP)
• Risk management (FRM, PRM, ARM)
• Financial analysis (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, SAP)
• Accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero, MYOB)
• Auditing (SAP, Oracle, Infor)
• Budgeting (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, SAP)
• Tax preparation (TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxSlayer)
• Investment analysis (Morning and Social Media, Thomson Reuters Eikon, Capital IQ)
• Financial reporting (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, SAP)
• Payroll management (ADP, QuickBooks, Xero)
• Billing and invoicing (FreshBooks, QuickBooks, Xero)

14. College Student

• College course management (Blackboard, Canvas, Moodle)
• Internship search (InternMatch, Indeed, Glassdoor)
• Resume building ( Resume Building , Fundamentals of Resume Building, Career Planning )
• Networking (Networking, Fundamentals of Networking, Career Planning)
• Job search engines (Indeed, Monster, LinkedIn)
• Budgeting (Mint, Personal Capital, YNAB)
• Communication (Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet)
• Time management (Trello, Todoist, Asana)
• Presentation (PowerPoint, Google Slides, Prezi)
• Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive)
• Graphic design (Adobe Creative Cloud, Canva, GIMP)
• Video editing ( Invideo , Adobe Premiere, iMovie, DaVinci Resolve)
• Data analysis (Microsoft Excel, Tableau, Power BI)
• Coding (Java, Python, C++)
• Point of sale (POS, Square, Shopify)
• Customer service (Customer Service, Fundamentals of Customer Service , Retail Sales)
• Inventory management (Inventory Management, Fundamentals of Inventory Management, Warehouse Management)
• Retail operations (Retail Operations, Fundamentals of Retail Operations, Retail Management)
• Sales reporting (QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, Xero)
• Marketing (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, Hootsuite)
• E-commerce (Amazon, Shopify, WooCommerce)
• Employee scheduling (When I Work, Deputy, Tanda)
• Loss prevention (Loss Prevention, Fundamentals of Loss Prevention, Retail Safety)
• Mobile payment processing (Square, PayPal, Stripe)
• Retail analytics (Retail Analytics, Fundamentals of Retail Analytics, Market Research)
• Retail merchandising (Retail Merchandising, Fundamentals of Retail Merchandising, Visual Merchandising)
• Retail buying (Retail Buying, Fundamentals of Retail Buying, Supply Chain Management)

15. Healthcare

• Medical terminology (Mosby’s Medical Terminology, Medical Terminology: An Illustrated Guide, A Short Course in Medical Terminology)
• Electronic medical records (EPIC, Cerner, Allscripts)
• Healthcare regulations (HIPAA, OSHA, CMS)
• Patient privacy laws (HIPAA, HITECH Act, GDPR)
• Pharmacy management (McKesson Pharmacy Systems, ScriptPro, Omnicell)
• Revenue cycle management (Cerner RevWorks, MedAssets, Optum 360)
• Clinical decision support (Cerner PowerChart, EPIC Clarity, Meditech)
• Diagnostic imaging (Picture Archiving and Communication System, Radiology Information System, Electronic Medical Record)
• Telemedicine (Doxy.me, Teladoc, Amwell)
• Patient scheduling (Athenahealth, Practice Fusion, Cerner)

16. Human Resources

• Employee relations (HR Management, Human Resource Management, Fundamentals of Human Resource Management)
• Performance management (Performance Management, Managing Employee Performance and Reward, Improving Performance)
• Recruitment and selection (Recruitment and Selection, Selecting the Right People, Hiring and Talent Acquisition)
• Compensation and benefits administration (Compensation Management, Fundamentals of Compensation Management, Benefits Administration)
• Compensation planning (Compensation Planning, Fundamentals of Compensation Planning, Base Pay, and Incentives)
• Employee self-service (ADP Self Service, Workday, Ceridian)
• Talent management ( Talent Management , Fundamentals of Talent Management, Recruitment, and Selection)
• Succession planning (Succession Planning, Fundamentals of Succession Planning, Executive Coaching)
• Student assessment (Formative Assessment, Summative Assessment, Diagnostic Assessment)
• Time and attendance tracking (Toggl, TimeClock Plus, Deputy)
• Employee engagement (SurveyMonkey, 15Five, Officevibe)
• Employee training (Totara Learn, Talentsoft, Docebo)
• HR analytics (Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle HCM Cloud)

• Contract law (Business Law, Contract Law, Fundamentals of Contract Law)
• Intellectual property law (Intellectual Property Law, Fundamentals of Intellectual Property Law , Copyright Law)
• Litigation support (Relativity, Concordance, Summation)
• Legal research (Westlaw, LexisNexis, Fastcase)
• Legal document management (DocuSign, Adobe Sign, HelloSign)
• E-discovery (Relativity, Concordance, Summation)
• Corporate law (Business Law, Corporate Law, Fundamentals of Corporate Law)
• Alternative dispute resolution (Mediation, Arbitration, Negotiation)
• Legal billing and time tracking (Time Matters, Clio, MyCase)

18. Education and Teachers

• Classroom management ( Classroom Management , Fundamentals of Classroom Management, Positive Behavior Support)
• Learning management systems (Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle)
• Instructional design (Instructional Design, Fundamentals of Instructional Design, Learning Theories)
• Education technology (Kahoot!, Edmodo, Nearpod)
• Educational resources (PBS Learning Media, National Geographic Education, CommonLit)
• Collaborative learning (Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, Schoology)
• Differentiated instruction (Differentiated Instruction, Fundamentals of Differentiated Instruction, Universal Design for Learning)
• Online teaching (Zoom, Skype, Google Meet)
• Curriculum planning (Curriculum Mapping, Fundamentals of Curriculum Planning, Backward Design)
• Literacy development (Reading A-Z, RAZ-Kids, Epic!)
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education (Scratch, Code.org, Tynker)

19. Customer Service

• Customer relationship management (CRM, Hubspot, Zoho)
• Call center technology (Avaya, Five9, Genesys)
• Conflict resolution (Conflict Resolution, Managing Conflict , Negotiating Conflict)
• Customer feedback analysis (Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms)
• Live chat software (Intercom, Zendesk Chat, Tawk.to)
• Ticketing systems (Zendesk, Freshdesk, Helpdesk)
• Knowledge management (Freshdesk, Zendesk, Help Scout)
• Automated phone systems (IVR, Interactive Voice Response, Auto Attendant)
• Customer self-service portals (Freshdesk, Zendesk, Salesforce Service Cloud)
• Text messaging platforms (Textline, Zipwhip, SimpleTexting)

20. Real Estate and Land Acquisition

• Property management software (Buildium, AppFolio, Yardi)
• Real estate appraisal (Appraisal Institute, National Association of Realtors, International Association of Assessing Officers)
• Commercial real estate (Commercial Real Estate, Fundamentals of Commercial Real Estate, Real Estate Investment)
• Residential real estate (Residential Real Estate, Fundamentals of Residential Real Estate, Real Estate Investment)
• Land acquisition software (LandVision, Landserf, ArcGIS)
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS, ArcGIS, QGIS)
• Environmental impact analysis (Environmental Impact Assessment, NEPA, Clean Air Act)
• Surveying software (Survey123, AutoCAD, Trimble)
• Land title and zoning information (Land Records, Zoning Maps, Tax Maps)
• Land use planning (Land Use Planning, Fundamentals of Land Use Planning, Urban Planning)
• Real estate market analysis (Real Estate Market Analysis, Real Estate Investment , Real Estate Economics)

21. Operations

• Supply chain management (SCM, SAP, Oracle)
• Lean manufacturing (Lean Manufacturing, Total Quality Management , Theory of Constraints)
• Process improvement (Process Improvement, Total Quality Management, Six Sigma)
• Production scheduling (Production Scheduling, Fundamentals of Production Scheduling, Capacity Planning)
• Project management (Fundamentals of Project Management, Agile Project Management)
• Workforce management (Workforce Management, Fundamentals of Workforce Management, Labor Management)
• Machine monitoring and maintenance (Machine Monitoring, Predictive Maintenance, Condition-Based Maintenance)
• Quality control (Quality Control, Fundamentals of Quality Control, Total Quality Management)
• Automated data collection (Automated Data Collection, Real-time Data Collection, Barcode Scanning)
• Graphic design (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Inkscape)
• Visual Design (Typography, Color Theory)
• Responsive Design
• User experience design (UX Design, Fundamentals of UX Design, Design Thinking)
• Web design (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
• Product design (Product Design, Fundamentals of Product Design , Design Thinking)
• 3D design (Autodesk 3DS Max, Blender, SketchUp)
• Illustration (Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Procreate)
• Digital painting (Adobe Photoshop, Krita, Corel Painter)
• Typography (Adobe Typekit, Google Fonts, Font Squirrel)
• Brand identity (Brand Identity, Fundamentals of Brand Identity, Corporate Identity)
• Layout design (Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress, Affinity Publisher)
• Wireframing

23. Environmental Science, Energy, and Sustainability

• Environmental regulations (NEPA, CERCLA, RCRA)
• Sustainability (Sustainability, Fundamentals of Sustainability, Green Energy)
• Renewable energy systems and technologies (Renewable Energy, Fundamentals of Renewable Energy , Green Energy)
• Climate change (Climate Change, Fundamentals of Climate Change, Global Warming)
• Air quality (Air Quality, Fundamentals of Air Quality, Atmospheric Science)
• Water quality (Water Quality, Fundamentals of Water Quality, Limnology)
• Energy management and monitoring software
• Environmental impact assessment (Environmental Impact Assessment, Fundamentals of Environmental Impact
• Assessment, Sustainability Assessment)
• GIS (Geographic Information Systems, ArcGIS, QGIS)
• Remote sensing (Remote Sensing, Fundamentals of Remote Sensing, Earth Observation)
• Smart grid and energy storage solutions

24. Communications, Writing, Media, and Entertainment

• Search engine optimization
• Topical and keyword research
• Content management systems (WordPress, Drupal, Joomla)
• Campaign management (Pardot, Marketo, Hubspot)
• Public relations (PR, Fundamentals of PR, Crisis Communications)
• Public speaking (Public Speaking, Fundamentals of Public Speaking, Effective Communication)
• Interpersonal communication (Interpersonal Communication, Fundamentals of Interpersonal Communication , Effective Communication)
• Writing skills (Technical Writing, Headline Writing, Landing Page Copy, Fundamentals of Writing, Creative Writing)
• Presentation design (PowerPoint, Keynote, Prezi)
• Media production (Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, Avid)
• Video conferencing (Zoom, Skype, Google Meet)
• Video editing and production software
• Animation and visual effects (VFX) tools
• Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) development

Overview of the Key Technical Skills

Aside from soft skills, certain technical skills have become valuable for professionals across various industries in an increasingly digital world. Relevant technical skills refer to specialized abilities and knowledge acquired through formal education, training programs, or hands-on experience.

These practical and job-specific skills allow individuals to perform tasks and functions within their respective fields effectively. The importance of new technical skills cannot be overstated, as they demonstrate an individual’s ability to:

• Solve complex problems
• Execute specialized tasks
• Adapt to technological advancements
• Enhance productivity and efficiency
• Contribute to innovation and growth

For hiring managers, examples of technical skills (also known as hard skills) are highly valued as they indicate an individual’s capacity to perform job-related duties successfully and contribute to the organization’s success. In addition to technical skills, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are vital for professional growth.

Possessing resume technical skills is vital for staying competitive and securing employment opportunities in today’s rapidly evolving job market. By showcasing these skills for a resume, individuals can demonstrate their value to potential employers and increase their chances of landing their desired roles.

Importance of Basic Technical Skills

Why are technical skills important? With the sheer number of technologies available and the hard skills necessary to use them, it can be daunting for job seekers, even data analysts, to determine which technical skills to showcase on their resumes.

• The right technical skills can significantly impact the job interview process . Don’t overlook the importance of including specific skills that match the job description in your resume summary, work experience section, and cover letter.
• The impact of a well-crafted list of technical skills on a resume cannot be overstated in today’s job market. As technology continues to revolutionize the way we work, the demand for individuals with specialized technical skills is rapidly increasing.
• Aside from soft skills or interpersonal skills, failing to highlight the specific technical skills on your resume could mean missing out on potential job opportunities, while including irrelevant or outdated skills can detract from your credibility.

This is where the expertise of seasoned executive search professionals, like MatchBuilt, can come in handy. With years of experience helping applicants and working with hiring employers, MatchBuilt has a deep understanding of the in-demand technical skills that will impact your resume.

Take the time to understand and highlight your unique, specialized technical skill set. This will help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of landing the job you want.

So, whether you’re just starting your job search or looking to take your career to the next level , highlight the right technical skills on your resume and give yourself the competitive advantage you need to succeed.

The Case for and Against Showcasing Specific Technical Skills on a Resume

When highlighting specific technical skills for a resume, arguments can be made for including and excluding them. Here are some of the main pros and cons of resume technical skills to consider:

Advantages of Showcasing Key Technical Skills on Your Resume

• Relevance: The skills section is often a vital component of many jobs. Beyond interpersonal skills, showcasing your best technical skills on your resume demonstrates your proficiency with the tools and technologies required for job-related tasks.
• Marketability: Including technical skills on your resume can increase your marketability as a candidate. These hard skills show you are up-to-date with current technologies and willing to learn new ones.
• Adaptability: Demonstrating more technical skills on your resume shows you are flexible and adaptable in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
• ATS Compliance: Many companies screen resumes using applicant tracking systems (ATS). Including relevant technical skills can help your resume get past these filters and land on a hiring manager’s desk.

Disadvantages of Showcasing Certain Technical Skills on Your Resume

• Overloading: When you list too many technical skills on your resume, it can appear cluttered and may detract from other important aspects of your experience and qualifications.
• Relevance: Not all technical skills are relevant to every job, and including irrelevant skills can hurt your chances of landing an interview.
• Bias: Some employers may view too many technical skills on a resume as a sign that you are overly specialized, which can work against you in specific industries or positions.
• Assumed Skills: Most companies believe credible candidates already have practical hard skills like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. By adding examples of technical skills, you take up valuable space on your resume.

Ultimately, deciding whether to include technical skills on your resume will depend on several factors, including the job you are applying for, your level of experience, and your qualifications.

Balance showcasing your technical skills with highlighting your other achievements and experiences to present yourself as a well-rounded and knowledgeable candidate .

Ways to Add the Most Relevant Technical Skills to Your Resume

By following these steps, you can create a comprehensive and practical list to make your technical skills stand out. These resume technical skills will help you beat the competition and attract the attention of a potential employer or project manager.

• Assess Your Skills: List all your technical skills, including programming languages, tools, platforms, and methodologies you have used in your career. Identify your areas of expertise and places where you would like to develop your skills further.
• Tailor Your List to the Job: Review the job description and requirements of the position you are applying for. Highlight the most important technical skills and emphasize how you have used these skills in previous roles. Consider briefly summarizing your relevant experience and accomplishments for each skill.
• Organize Your List: Arrange your technical skills in a logical and easy-to-read format, such as a table or with an appropriate number of bullet points . Group similar skills together and label each group with a clear and descriptive heading. Use keywords and terms commonly used in the industry and recognized by recruiters and hiring managers.
• Proofread and Update Your List: Check your list for typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies. Update your list regularly to reflect your evolving skills and experiences. Ask for feedback from trusted colleagues or friends to make sure your list accurately represents your technical skills and abilities.
• Use Your List in Your Resume and Cover Letter: Incorporate your list of technical skills in your resume and cover letter. Emphasize your skills and how they can benefit the company. Use specific examples and statistics to demonstrate the impact of your skills on previous projects and job responsibilities.
• Incorporate Your List on LinkedIn: Add your technical skills to your LinkedIn profile using the same format and terminology as in your resume. Keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and aligned with your resume, especially regarding your technical skills. Use the Skills and Endorsements section to showcase your technical skills and have them endorsed by your connections.

At MatchBuilt Executive Search, we understand job seekers’ difficulties in the job search process. We have helped thousands of job applicants and hundreds of hiring employers over the years and have seen first-hand the impact that technical skills and soft skills can have on a resume.

Our team is well-positioned to offer valuable advice and insights on this topic of technical skills. We encourage you to visit our blog for career development tips about resumes, job interviews, and optimizing LinkedIn.

Our goal is to empower professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in their job search and advance their careers. Whether you are just starting out or are looking to make a career change, we are here to help you every step of the way.

Related Questions

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest technical skills that employers are looking for in candidates. Here are some common questions about the most sought-after technical skills and how to showcase them on your resume.

What Are Five Examples of Technical Skills?

Five examples of the most relevant technical skills that can increase your chances of success in a job interview are: proficiency in programming languages, expertise in data analysis, and knowledge of project management methodologies. Familiarity with cloud computing platforms like AWS and Azure and experience with cybersecurity practices are also vital technical abilities.

What Are the Four Technical Skills?

The best technical skills to highlight will depend on your technical skill level. However, the four key areas include: computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite), software and programming skills (e.g., JavaScript, Oracle), data analysis and visualization (e.g., Pandas, Matplotlib), and job-specific tools or technologies (e.g., CAD for engineering roles, CRM for sales positions).

How Do You List Technical Skills on a Resume?

To list specific technical skills for a resume, you must first choose the appropriate technical skills by assessing your experience with relevant software programs and technology. Next, tailor your list to the job description. Finally, format them in a way that is easy for a potential employer to scan.

What Are Computer-Related Technical Skills That Can Be Added to a Resume?

Computer-related technical skills for a resume include programming language, database management, software applications, and digital design tools.

How Do I Highlight My Technical Skills on My Resume?

To highlight your key technical skills, add specific technical skills in a dedicated section, such as “Skills” or “Technical Expertise,” and include relevant examples of projects or accomplishments.

What Technical Skills Are Most in Demand?

Currently, the most in-demand technical skills include data analysis, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Consider learning skills in emerging technologies like virtual reality, blockchain, or the internet of things to make your resume stand out.

How Do I Demonstrate My Technical Skills If I Don’t Have Professional Experience or Technical Background?

Even without professional experience, you can demonstrate your technical skills through online courses, training programs, coding boot camps, personal projects, or volunteer work. You can still showcase your computer-related technical skills by highlighting transferable skills, such as problem-solving, attention to detail, and adaptability.

How Do I Quantify My Technical Skills on My Resume?

Quantify your technical and computer skills by mentioning specific accomplishments, such as the number of projects you have completed, the impact of your work, or the size of the teams you have worked with.

Familiarize yourself with the basic technical skills and hard skills required for your desired role to effectively present your qualifications on a resume. Highlighting the key technical skills for a resume demonstrates your value while increasing your chances of securing interviews and landing your dream job in an increasingly digital world.

About Mark Matyanowski

As the founder of MatchBuilt, with over 18 years of recruiting and coaching experience and 8+ years in executive roles at a leading Fortune 100 company, I am deeply committed to guiding professionals in their career paths.

Our team at MatchBuilt offers expert support in enhancing resumes, optimizing LinkedIn profiles, and preparing for interviews. Our blog, drawing on our rich experience and industry insights, is a valuable resource for job seekers.

We take pride in successfully guiding job candidates to top-tier company roles while empowering individuals to achieve their career ambitions, irrespective of their background or educational level.

How to include leadership skills in a resume

One of the best ways to make yourself more marketable to hiring managers is by highlighting your leadership skills. Resumes showcasing these skills serve to demonstrate that you are a high performer who adds value to your team. However, it’s important that you include them on your resume in a way that helps you stand out. Here’s how to get noticed and land that interview by crafting a resume that effectively features your leadership skills.

Discussing leadership skills in your resume

Hiring managers want more than simply employees performing tasks. They want enthusiastic people who go above and beyond to contribute something excellent to their team and their organization. 

Tweaking your resume examples to include leadership skills demonstrates that you are full of potential. It shows you have the attitude many organizations are looking for.

Furthermore, a good leadership qualities resume often paints you as a high performer in your company. Showcasing your qualifications in this way may make hiring managers feel that you have what it takes to duplicate that performance to benefit their organization.

Finally, having both soft and hard skills relating to leadership on your resume signals to employers that you are ready to take on more responsibility in a role. This can help them recognize your potential early on and set you up for advancements and promotions in your new role.

Expert tip:

Try to avoid using vague words to describe your leadership skills. Instead, be specific with how your skills contributed to good outcomes for your projects, teams, and organization. For example, replace the words “organized and detail-oriented” with “strategic planner.”

Identify key leadership skills

Before you can create a standout resume or cover letter , you need to know the right skills to include. This not only means understanding which leadership skills employers want to see but also figuring out which ones you possess.

Many employers value leadership skills that help employees stay organized and work together. They also love it when employees show evidence of strategic thinking, which overcomes roadblocks and leads to innovation.

Here are a few leadership examples for resumes in various industries and how they can show up in a professional context.

Communication

Good communication is about more than just having good office skills and etiquette. It is essential for ensuring teams can work together and build relationships. At work, great communication can show up in the way you mentor entry-level colleagues, lead meetings, coordinate vendors, or manage projects.

Decision-making

Being decisive is important for instilling confidence in others and managing project timelines . To showcase this skill, you can mention occasions on which you have taken risks that eventually paid off or instances when your strategic thinking led to a better outcome on a project.

Problem-solving

There is rarely a workplace project that won’t hit at least one roadblock. If you’re the person who helps the team get around those roadblocks, then you have the leadership skills employers want. On your resume , you should offer examples of processes you’ve improved or solutions you have provided and the positive impact they’ve had.

Delegation is yet another leadership trait that shows your ability to be a team player. To demonstrate it, include examples on your resume of how you’ve led teams, identified strengths in others, and used those collective strengths to deliver exceptional work for the organization and its clients.

How to include them in other sections

By nature, whether you’re hoping to show off your accomplishments or leadership skills, resumes are designed to allow you to highlight these elements in multiple ways. In fact, it’s better not to relegate them to just one section of the document. Take a closer look at how you can include them in different parts of your resume.

Professional summary 

The professional summary is the perfect place to add your leadership skills. Much like a cover letter, it allows you to create a narrative around your skills. In your summary, tell the hiring manager how you developed your leadership qualities and what you have accomplished as a result of having them.

Dedicated skills section

You can also use a resume template with a dedicated skills section where you list your technical and soft skills. Where possible, avoid using general terms like “communication” or “collaboration.” Instead, try specific phrases like “conflict resolution,” “negotiation,” “strategic vision,” or “project coordination.”

Past work experience

Once you have listed the names of your past employers and the dates you worked there, use bullet points to list accomplishments and scenarios where you have used your leadership qualities. After you list your job responsibilities, you can even include a separate bullet point that details the leadership skills you used in each position.

How to showcase those skills

When it comes to identifying your leadership skills, resumes that are effective tend to share a common element: specificity. Including specific examples of leadership skills in the work experience section of your resume is what connects the dots for the hiring manager. It helps them see how you developed and used those skills in concrete ways. 

In turn, this builds confidence in their minds that you can do the same in a new role at their organization. If you find it challenging to showcase your leadership skills in this manner, try these tips:

Be clear and concise

Whether describing technical or soft skills , avoid using too many words, and keep each accomplishment or skill to one line only. This helps curb embellishment and makes your language less confusing.

Use action verbs

Start each line with a strong action verb . For example, you might write, “Developed code to optimize website forms, leading to a 46% decrease in submission errors.” This shows that you can identify a problem, determine what action needs to be taken, be proactive about solving the issue, and measure how that decision improved outcomes.

Include quantifiable outcomes

Use numbers whenever possible to quantify the outcomes of your actions. While you can’t put a number on everything, using this method shows the hiring manager that you understand the impact of your individual achievements and helps them imagine all the good you can contribute to their company.

Tailor the skills to the role

Whether you’re building a leadership experience resume or optimizing your cover letter examples , it’s always a good idea to tailor your skills to the role you want. This gives your resume the best chance of making it past the filters in an applicant tracking system. It also keeps your resume relevant and shows you can succeed in the job.

A tip you’ll find in many good resume articles for tailoring your leadership skills to the role is to scan the job description for keywords. If the description mentions skills that a preferred candidate would have — such as strategic thinking or cross-functional collaboration — you should include those terms somewhere on your resume. 

You can do this in a dedicated section. You can also mention them in your summary or past work experience.

Another method you can use for tailoring your skills is to research your industry and develop a list of skills employers want. For example, strategic project management may be a highly coveted quality in product design and development. If you have it, include it on your resume. This can increase your appeal and make you more marketable.

"By nature, whether you’re hoping to show off your accomplishments or leadership skills, resumes are designed to allow you to highlight these elements in multiple ways."

Let your leadership skills lead the way to the job of your dreams

Leadership skills are crucial for your resume because they make you shine as a candidate. They show employers that you are eager to make a contribution to the workplace and that you go above and beyond for your team. 

To show off your leadership skills effectively, make sure you include the qualities you know employers in your industry are looking for. Spread these skills throughout your resume — especially in key sections, such as the summary, work experience section, and dedicated skills section.

Always ensure the leadership skills you include are relevant and tailored to the role. Scan the job description, and research your industry for key skills you should include. 

Remember that you can always reach for helpful tools to assist you in creating an impactful job application. From cover letter templates to well-structured resume examples, Jobseeker puts everything you need at your fingertips to help you start your job search on the right foot and find a role that suits you.

(1) Forbes Magazine: 5 Essential Leadership Skills Employers Are Looking For

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