Crafting a stellar resume is undeniably an essential part of your job search. One crucial aspect of a resume is showcasing your skills to make a strong impression on potential employers. That’s where this article comes in! It will guide you through a comprehensive list of skills you might want to consider adding to your resume or cover letter.
This article breaks down those skills into various categories, providing you with an extensive array of options perfectly suited to your background, experience, and expertise. So, get ready to upgrade your resume and cover letter – your dream job could be just around the corner!
Related: Top Transferable Skills Every Company Wants
Soft Skills Examples
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Good communication is crucial in the workplace, and your ability to effectively convey your thoughts, ideas, and feelings will be greatly appreciated by your colleagues and employers. Developing strong communication skills can help you excel in any job. Some examples of communication skills to put on your resume include:
- Verbal communication
- Written communication
- Active listening
Example Phrases
“I have developed exceptional communication skills that allow me to effectively express my thoughts, ideas, and feelings both verbally and in writing. I have experience speaking in front of groups and collaborating with colleagues, which has helped me refine my verbal communication skills.”
“I have honed my written communication skills through crafting various types of business correspondence. I am also an active listener, which has helped me better understand the needs and perspectives of others.”
Interpersonal skills involve your ability to build strong relationships with others, handle conflicts, work well in teams, and maintain a positive working environment. Some examples of interpersonal skills are:
- Teamwork
- Collaboration
- Conflict resolution
Example Phrases
“I excel in working collaboratively with others, leveraging my teamwork skills to achieve shared goals and objectives.”
“I am skilled in conflict resolution, having successfully navigated challenging situations to find mutually beneficial solutions.”
“I am committed to maintaining a positive working environment and have a proven track record of fostering a culture of respect, trust, and inclusivity.”
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Employers value employees who can think critically and solve problems efficiently in a timely manner. Being able to analyze situations, identify potential issues, and create solutions is a highly sought-after skill. Here are a few examples of critical thinking and problem-solving skills you can list on your resume:
- Analytical thinking
- Decision-making
- Attention to detail
Example Phrases
“I am skilled in analytical thinking, which allows me to break down complex problems into manageable parts and identify key issues. I am also a decisive decision-maker, able to weigh multiple options and make sound choices under pressure.”
“My attention to detail ensures that I am able to identify potential issues before they become problems.”
“My critical thinking and problem-solving skills have been an asset in my previous roles and I am confident they will continue to be so in any future position.”
Adaptability and Flexibility
In today’s fast-paced work environment, being adaptable and flexible to change is essential. Employers appreciate individuals who can cope with new challenges and adjust to different situations, demonstrating resilience and a positive attitude. Some examples of adaptability and flexibility skills are:
- Open-mindedness
- Time management
- Stress management
Example Phrases
“My ability to adapt and be flexible helps me thrive in a fast-paced work environment.”
“I am open-minded and able to adjust to new challenges and situations with ease, demonstrating resilience and a positive attitude.”
“I am skilled in time management, which allows me to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines even in the face of unexpected changes.”
“I am adept at stress management, able to remain calm and focused under pressure.”
List of Soft Skills
By including these phrases in your resume or cover letter, you can showcase your abilities and demonstrate your potential as a valuable team member. (Select the phrases that are most applicable to your skills and experience, and ensure that you tailor your language to the specific job and company you are applying to.)
Communication: The ability to effectively convey ideas, thoughts, and information to others through various mediums such as written, verbal, and nonverbal communication.
Example Phrases
– “Developed and executed a comprehensive communication plan to ensure effective communication with all stakeholders.”
– “Consistently received positive feedback from colleagues and clients for clear and concise communication skills.”
– “Utilized various communication mediums such as email, phone, and in-person meetings to effectively convey ideas and information.”
Collaboration: The ability to work effectively with others towards a common goal, including the ability to compromise, negotiate, and build consensus.
Example Phrases
– “Successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and within budget.”
– “Demonstrated strong teamwork skills by actively listening to team members and contributing to a positive work environment.”
– “Built consensus among team members by effectively negotiating and compromising to achieve common goals.”
Adaptability: The ability to adjust and thrive in changing environments, including the ability to learn new skills and take on new responsibilities.
Example Phrases
– “Quickly adapted to a new role by learning new skills and taking on new responsibilities.”
– “Successfully navigated through a period of significant change by remaining flexible and open to new ideas and approaches.”
– “Thrived in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment by being adaptable and resilient.”
Problem-solving: The ability to identify, analyze, and solve problems in a creative and effective manner.
Example Phrases
– “Identified and solved complex problems by analyzing information and generating innovative solutions.”
– “Successfully resolved conflicts by addressing underlying issues and finding mutually beneficial solutions.”
– “Demonstrated strong critical thinking skills by evaluating options and making informed decisions.”
Emotional intelligence: The ability to recognize and manage one’s own emotions as well as the emotions of others, including the ability to empathize and build strong relationships.
Example Phrases
– “Built strong relationships with colleagues and clients by empathizing with their needs and concerns.”
– “Effectively managed emotions during high-pressure situations to maintain a positive and productive work environment.”
– “Demonstrated strong emotional intelligence by understanding and managing my own emotions as well as the emotions of others.”
Critical thinking: The ability to analyze and evaluate information in order to make informed decisions and solve complex problems.
Example Phrases
– “Analyzed and evaluated data to make informed decisions and solve complex problems.”
– “Developed and implemented strategies to improve processes and increase efficiency.”
– “Successfully navigated through ambiguous situations by using critical thinking skills to identify solutions.”
Conflict resolution: The ability to identify and address conflicts in a constructive and positive manner, including the ability to negotiate and compromise.
Example Phrases
– “Successfully resolved conflicts by identifying underlying issues and finding mutually beneficial solutions.”
– “Effectively negotiated and compromised to reach common ground and achieve desired outcomes.”
– “Demonstrated strong conflict resolution skills by addressing conflicts in a constructive and positive manner.”
Positive attitude: The ability to maintain a positive and optimistic outlook, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.
Example Phrases
– “Maintained a positive and optimistic outlook even during challenging times.”
– “Motivated and inspired team members by demonstrating a positive attitude and leading by example.”
– “Consistently received positive feedback from colleagues and clients for a positive and can-do attitude.”
Creativity: The ability to think outside the box and generate innovative solutions to problems.
Example Phrases
– “Generated innovative solutions to complex problems by thinking outside the box.”
– “Developed and implemented creative marketing strategies to increase brand awareness.”
– “Successfully introduced new products to the market by using creative thinking and problem-solving skills.”
Flexibility: The ability to adapt to changing situations and be open to new ideas and approaches.
Example Phrases
– “Adapted to changing situations by being open to new ideas and approaches.”
– “Successfully managed competing priorities by staying organized and prioritizing tasks effectively.”
– “Demonstrated flexibility by taking on new responsibilities and adjusting to new roles.”
Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others, including the ability to put oneself in someone else’s shoes.
Example Phrases
– “Built strong relationships with colleagues and clients by understanding and empathizing with their needs and concerns.”
– “Successfully resolved conflicts by empathizing with all parties involved and finding mutually beneficial solutions.”
– “Demonstrated strong empathy skills by putting myself in someone else’s shoes and understanding their perspective.”
Active listening: The ability to listen to others attentively and with an open mind, including the ability to ask questions and seek clarification.
Example Phrases
– “Listened actively to colleagues and clients by asking questions and seeking clarification.”
– “Demonstrated strong active listening skills by summarizing key points and reflecting on what was said.”
– “Effectively communicated with team members by actively listening and responding to their needs and concerns.”
Persuasion: The ability to influence others and convince them to take a certain course of action, including the ability to present compelling arguments and address objections.
Example Phrases
– “Successfully convinced clients to take a certain course of action by presenting compelling arguments and addressing objections.”
– “Demonstrated strong persuasion skills by influencing team members to adopt new ideas and approaches.”
– “Effectively negotiated and compromised by using persuasive communication skills.”
Networking: The ability to build and maintain professional relationships with others, including the ability to identify and connect with key stakeholders.
Example Phrases
– “Built and maintained professional relationships with key stakeholders by identifying and connecting with them.”
– “Successfully expanded my professional network by attending industry events and conferences.”
– “Demonstrated strong networking skills by effectively communicating with people from diverse backgrounds and industries.”
Conflict management: The ability to manage and resolve conflicts in a constructive and positive manner, including the ability to find common ground and reach mutually beneficial solutions.
Example Phrases
– “Managed and resolved conflicts in a constructive and positive manner by finding common ground and reaching mutually beneficial solutions.”
– “Demonstrated strong conflict management skills by addressing conflicts proactively and preventing escalation.”
– “Effectively communicated with all parties involved in conflicts by actively listening and empathizing with their needs and concerns.”
Decision-making: The ability to make informed and effective decisions, including the ability to weigh options, consider consequences, and take action.
Example Phrases
– “Made informed and effective decisions by weighing options, considering consequences, and taking action.”
– “Successfully managed complex projects by making sound decisions and prioritizing tasks effectively.”
– “Demonstrated strong decision-making skills by evaluating risks and benefits and choosing the best course of action.”
Self-motivation: The ability to motivate oneself and stay focused on achieving goals, including the ability to set priorities and stay organized.
Example Phrases
– “Motivated myself to achieve goals by setting priorities and staying organized.”
– “Demonstrated strong self-motivation skills by consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations.”
– “Successfully managed competing priorities by staying focused and motivated.”
Cultural awareness: The ability to understand and appreciate cultural differences, including the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
Example Phrases
– “Successfully worked with people from diverse backgrounds by understanding and appreciating cultural differences.”
– “Demonstrated strong cultural awareness skills by adapting to different communication styles and customs.”
– “Effectively communicated with colleagues and clients from different cultures by showing respect and empathy.”
Customer service: The ability to provide excellent service to customers, including the ability to listen to their needs, respond to their concerns, and exceed their expectations.
Example Phrases
– “Provided excellent service to customers by actively listening to their needs and responding to their concerns.”
– “Successfully resolved customer complaints by finding solutions that exceeded their expectations.”
– “Demonstrated strong customer service skills by building and maintaining positive relationships with clients.”
Time management: The ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively, including the ability to meet deadlines and stay organized.
Example Phrases
– “Prioritized tasks effectively by setting clear goals and deadlines.”
– “Successfully managed multiple projects by staying organized and managing time efficiently.”
– “Demonstrated strong time management skills by consistently meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work.”
Leadership: The ability to inspire and motivate others towards a common goal, including the ability to delegate tasks and provide guidance and support.
Example Phrases
– “Inspired and motivated team members towards a common goal by providing guidance and support.”
– “Successfully delegated tasks and responsibilities to team members by identifying their strengths and weaknesses.”
– “Demonstrated strong leadership skills by effectively communicating expectations and providing feedback to team members.”
Accountability: The ability to take responsibility for one’s actions and decisions, including the ability to admit mistakes and learn from them.
Example Phrases
– “Took responsibility for my actions and decisions by admitting mistakes and learning from them.”
– “Demonstrated strong accountability skills by following through on commitments and meeting expectations.”
– “Successfully managed projects by taking ownership of tasks and delivering results.”
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to change, including the ability to stay positive and focused during difficult times.
Example Phrases
– “Bounced back from setbacks by staying positive and focused on achieving goals.”
– “Successfully navigated through difficult times by adapting to change and staying resilient.”
– “Demonstrated strong resilience skills by maintaining a positive attitude and persevering through challenges.”
Patience: The ability to remain calm and composed in challenging situations, including the ability to wait for results and outcomes without becoming frustrated.
Example Phrases
– “Remained calm and composed during challenging situations by exercising patience.”
– “Demonstrated strong patience skills by waiting for results and outcomes without becoming frustrated.”
– “Effectively communicated with team members by showing patience and understanding.”
Integrity: The ability to act with honesty and ethics, including the ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold professional standards.
Example Phrases
– “Acted with honesty and ethics by maintaining confidentiality and upholding professional standards.”
– “Demonstrated strong integrity skills by consistently doing the right thing even when it was difficult.”
– “Successfully built trust with colleagues and clients by demonstrating integrity in all interactions.”
Trustworthiness: The ability to build and maintain trust with others, including the ability to keep promises and follow through on commitments.
Example Phrases
– “Built and maintained trust with others by keeping promises and following through on commitments.”
– “Demonstrated strong trustworthiness skills by maintaining confidentiality and being transparent in all interactions.”
– “Successfully managed projects by building trust with team members and stakeholders.”
Interpersonal skills: The ability to build and maintain relationships with others, including the ability to listen actively, show empathy, and communicate effectively.
Example Phrases
– “Built and maintained positive relationships with colleagues and clients by actively listening, showing empathy, and communicating effectively.”
– “Successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams by understanding their needs and concerns and finding common ground.”
– “Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills by adapting communication styles to different personalities and situations.”
Teamwork: The ability to work collaboratively with others towards a common goal, including the ability to communicate effectively, share ideas, and provide support.
Example Phrases
– “Worked collaboratively with others towards a common goal by communicating effectively, sharing ideas, and providing support.”
– “Demonstrated strong teamwork skills by actively listening to team members and contributing to a positive work environment.”
– “Successfully managed and motivated teams by delegating tasks and providing guidance and support.”
Related: What Are Soft Skills? (and How to Showcase Them)
Hard Skills Examples
Technical Skills
When it comes to technical skills, think about the software, tools, and equipment that you’re adept at using. For example, being fluent in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is a basic technical skill that is often required in many roles. Furthermore, computer skills such as coding languages like Python, HTML/CSS, or JavaScript can be essential when applying for positions in web development, data analysis, or software engineering.
Examples:
– “Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.”
– “Developed web applications using Python and Django web framework.”
– “Designed and developed responsive websites using HTML/CSS and JavaScript.”
Design Skills
Design skills are important across a wide range of industries, from graphic design and web design to interior design. Showcasing your abilities with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) or other design tools is crucial for roles that require a visual touch. Similarly, photography and UX design can also be relevant skills to demonstrate your eye for aesthetics and user appeal.
Examples:
– “Created stunning visual designs using Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.”
– “Designed user-friendly and visually appealing websites using web design principles and tools.”
– “Developed wireframes and prototypes for mobile apps with a focus on UX design and user appeal.”
Project Management Skills
Examples:
– “Successfully managed and delivered projects within budget and on time.”
– “Utilized project management tools such as Asana, Trello, and Jira to track progress and manage tasks.”
– “Demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills by effectively delegating tasks and providing guidance to team members.”
More: Technical Skills Examples for Resume
Relevant Skills for Different Fields
Marketing
For a marketing career, consider focusing on skills that showcase your creativity and communication abilities. Skills like SEO, social media management, and content creation can bolster your resume. Analytical skills are also essential, as they help you evaluate the success of campaigns.
Examples:
– “Boosted website traffic by implementing effective SEO strategies.”
– “Managed social media accounts and increased engagement by 50%.”
– “Analyzed campaign data to optimize ROI and improve overall performance.”
Administrative
In an administrative role, you’ll want to emphasize your organizational and time management skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, touch typing, and data entry can demonstrate your technical savvy.
Examples:
– “Maintained an organized filing system and improved accessibility by 30%.”
– “Increased typing speed to 70 WPM through consistent practice and training.”
– “Managed data entry tasks with 100% accuracy and attention to detail.”
Retail
Retail positions value customer service skills, sales abilities, and networking. Don’t forget to include skills such as handling POS systems, merchandising, and inventory control.
Examples:
– “Provided exceptional customer service and resolved complaints effectively.”
– “Proficiently operated POS systems and processed transactions accurately.”
– “Managed inventory control and reduced stock loss by 20%.”
Finance
In finance, your resume should highlight quantitative skills, data analysis, and financial modeling. Mention any certifications like CFA or CFP, as hiring managers often look for these credentials.
Examples:
– “Developed financial models to forecast revenue and expenses accurately.”
– “Analyzed financial data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.”
– “Achieved CFA certification to demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field.”
Healthcare
For healthcare-related jobs, consider emphasizing clinical skills, patient care, and knowledge of medical terminology. Depending on your field, you might also want to mention certification or licensure. For example, a registered nurse or a certified medical assistant.
Examples:
– “Provided compassionate patient care and ensured a positive experience for all.”
– “Demonstrated extensive knowledge of medical terminology and effectively communicated with colleagues and patients.”
– “Maintained CPR certification and demonstrated proficiency in emergency response situations.”
Engineering
In engineering, your resume should showcase technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and project management experience. Proficiency in industry-specific software (like CAD) and programming languages will be of interest to hiring managers.
Examples:
– “Utilized AutoCAD software to design and develop innovative solutions for complex engineering problems.”
– “Successfully solved technical challenges by applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”
– “Managed multiple engineering projects simultaneously and delivered results on time and within budget.”
Standout Skills Unique to You
Discovering and showcasing your standout skills is crucial when crafting your resume. Take some time to identify abilities that set you apart from others in your field. For example, if you have exceptional attention to detail, patience under pressure, or a knack for campaign management, make sure to highlight these skills on your resume.
To emphasize your unique abilities, consider providing examples of how you have successfully applied them in the workplace. Mentioning specific instances where your attention to detail saved a project from errors or how your patience helped defuse a tense situation can demonstrate your value to potential employers. For example:
“Demonstrated an exceptional attention to detail by catching critical errors before a software launch, saving the company time and resources.”
“Managed a targeted advertising campaign that led to a 30% increase in website traffic and 12% customer conversion rate.”
“Leveraged patience and conflict resolution skills to successfully mediate a dispute between team members, resulting in improved morale and productivity.”
Being a strong candidate often means possessing skills that are transferable across industries. Don’t be afraid to mention skills from unrelated fields, as they may still be valuable for the role you’re applying for, and potential employers can appreciate your versatility. Related: Top Transferable Skills Every Company Wants
Organizing Your Skills Section
Structuring Your Resume
When organizing your skills section, focus on clarity and readability. Group similar skills together and use a clear, consistent format. You might consider using bullet points or a table to list your skills with brief descriptions. This helps the hiring manager quickly identify your strengths. Make sure you emphasize both hard and soft skills on your resume.
Examples:
- Communication skills: Writing, public speaking, active listening
- Technical skills: Java, HTML, Adobe Photoshop
Tailoring to the Job Description
As a job seeker, take the time to read the job description thoroughly and make a list of required or preferred skills. Focus on highlighting the skills applicable to the particular job in your resume skills section. Doing so will make your application stand out to the hiring manager and showcase your suitability for the position.
Examples:
- Job posting lists “experience with Python” as a requirement, so include “Python programming” under your technical skills.
- Job posting emphasizes teamwork; be sure to list “collaboration” and “team-building” under your soft skills.
Quantifying Achievements
Quantifiable achievements are key to an impressive resume. When listing your resume skills, it’s beneficial to demonstrate how you’ve used your skills to achieve measurable results in previous roles. Providing specific data or examples can make your skills section more convincing and impactful.
Examples:
- Sales skills: Consistently reached 120% of monthly sales targets in the previous role.
- Time management: Reduced turnaround time for project completion by 25% by implementing new strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most common skills for resumes?
Some of the most common skills for resumes include communication, time management, and teamwork. These are considered soft skills and are important for success in most workplaces.
- Communication: Demonstrating strong oral and written skills
- Time Management: Prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines
- Teamwork: Collaborating with colleagues and working towards a common goal
What are some examples of unique skills?
Unique skills can set you apart from other candidates by showcasing your individual strengths. Some examples of unique skills are:
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimizing website content for search engines
- American Sign Language (ASL): Communicating using sign language
- Podcast Production: Creating and editing podcasts
How to list language skills?
When listing language skills on your resume, it’s important to specify your level of proficiency. You can use terms such as “native speaker,” “fluent,” “conversational,” or “basic” to describe your abilities. For example:
- Fluent in Spanish
- Japanese: Conversational level
- Basic knowledge of Italian
Popular skills for freshers
For those new to the workforce, popular skills to list on your resume might include:
- Problem-solving: Finding solutions to challenges in a systematic way
- Adaptability: Adjusting to new situations and environments quickly
- Time Management: Prioritizing tasks and organizing schedules
Top skills for students
As a student, it’s important to highlight skills that are relevant to your field of study or future career. Some examples of top skills for students are:
- Research: Performing in-depth investigations to acquire information
- Presentation: Delivering information to groups in a clear, engaging manner
- Analytical thinking: Examining complex data and drawing conclusions
Personal skills in sentence form
When listing personal skills in sentence form on your resume, try to focus on how they can benefit the company or role you’re applying for:
- “Strong interpersonal abilities allow for efficient collaboration with team members.”
- “Detail-oriented nature ensures that tasks are completed accurately and thoroughly.”
- “Highly organized, which helps manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.”