Professional skills are the abilities that set you apart and show employers you’re the right fit for the job. Your professional skills can include technical know-how, soft skills, and industry knowledge. Examples might be project management, data analysis, or customer service. Think about what you’re good at and what employers in your field value.
Highlighting Technical and Hard Skills
Technical and hard skills show employers what you can do and how you can add value to their organization.
Computer and Software Skills
Computer and software skills help us work efficiently and handle various tasks.
You can list proficiency in common office software like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Knowledge of project management tools like Trello or Asana is also valuable.
Examples
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
- Experienced with Adobe Creative Cloud
- Skilled in database management using SQL
- Fluent in Python programming
- Knowledgeable in cloud computing platforms
- Adept at using CRM software
- Experienced with version control systems like Git
- Proficient in data visualization tools
- Skilled in web development using HTML and CSS
- Experienced with virtualization technologies
Related: 100 Examples of Computer Skills for a Resume
Analytical and Research Skills
Analytical and research skills help us solve problems and make informed decisions. These skills are valuable in many fields.
Examples
- Skilled in data analysis and interpretation
- Experienced in conducting market research
- Proficient in statistical analysis
- Adept at problem-solving and critical thinking
- Skilled in creating data-driven reports
- Experienced in qualitative research methods
- Proficient in using research databases
- Skilled in data mining and pattern recognition
- Experienced in conducting user surveys
- Adept at presenting research findings
Marketing and Design Skills
Marketing and design skills help create compelling content and visuals that engage customers.
Examples
- Skilled in social media marketing strategies
- Experienced in SEO and content optimization
- Proficient in email marketing campaigns
- Adept at creating engaging visual content
- Skilled in brand development and management
- Experienced in user interface design
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator
- Skilled in creating marketing collateral
- Experienced in video editing and production
- Adept at conducting A/B testing
Specialized Industry Skills
Specialized industry skills set you apart in your field. They show deep knowledge and expertise in your area.
You can list certifications or specialized training you’ve completed. Include any industry-specific software or tools you’re familiar with.
Examples
- Certified in project management (PMP)
- Experienced in agile development methodologies
- Proficient in financial modeling and forecasting
- Skilled in lean manufacturing techniques
- Experienced in healthcare data management
- Proficient in AutoCAD for engineering design
- Skilled in supply chain optimization
- Experienced in cybersecurity threat analysis
- Proficient in molecular biology laboratory techniques
- Skilled in energy efficiency auditing
Showcasing Soft Skills in Your Resume
Soft skills show how well you work with others and handle challenges. Here’s how to highlight your soft skills effectively on your resume.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Good communication helps you work well with others. It’s a top skill employers want.
Examples
- “Gave clear presentations to 50+ clients”
- “Wrote easy-to-read reports for team meetings”
- “Listened carefully to customer needs”
- “Explained complex ideas in simple terms”
- “Shared feedback kindly with coworkers”
- “Built strong relationships with customers”
- “Spoke confidently in public settings”
- “Wrote engaging content for company blog”
- “Resolved conflicts between team members”
- “Used active listening in client meetings”
These examples show you’re good at talking, writing, and working with people. They prove you can share ideas well and get along with others.
Collaboration and Teamwork
These skills show you’re a good teammate who helps others and works toward shared goals. They prove you can fit in and add value to any group.
Examples
- “Led a project team of 5 members”
- “Worked well in cross-functional teams”
- “Helped new team members learn the ropes”
- “Pitched in on tasks outside my role”
- “Supported colleagues during busy times”
- “Contributed ideas in team brainstorms”
- “Respected diverse viewpoints in groups”
- “Collaborated on projects across departments”
- “Built team spirit through social events”
Problem-Solving and Adaptability
Employers want people who can handle change and solve problems.
Examples
- “Found creative solutions to cut costs by 15%”
- “Adapted quickly to new software systems”
- “Solved customer issues promptly”
- “Came up with new ideas to boost sales”
- “Stayed calm under tight deadlines”
- “Learned new skills to take on more duties”
- “Fixed bugs in company website”
- “Adjusted plans when project scope changed”
- “Thought of ways to improve work processes”
- “Handled surprise tasks with a positive attitude”
These examples show you’re flexible and can think on your feet. They prove you can tackle tough situations and find smart solutions.
Leadership and Management Skills
Even if you’re not a boss, leadership skills are valuable.
Examples
- “Trained new hires on company procedures”
- “Organized team-building activities”
- “Motivated coworkers to meet sales goals”
- “Delegated tasks to team members”
- “Made fair schedules for staff”
- “Coached peers on customer service skills”
- “Led meetings to plan new projects”
- “Resolved conflicts between coworkers”
- “Set clear goals for team performance”
- “Gave helpful feedback to improve work quality”
These phrases show you can guide and inspire others. They prove you have what it takes to lead, even without a fancy title.
Personal Attributes That Add Value
Your personal qualities can set you apart from other job candidates. Employers look for traits that show you’ll fit in and contribute positively to their workplace.
Character Traits Employers Seek
Employers value workers who bring more than just skills to the table. They want people who can work well with others and handle challenges. Here are some traits to highlight on your resume:
- Quick learner
- Team player
- Problem solver
- Self-motivated
- Adaptable
- Detail-oriented
- Positive attitude
- Strong communicator
- Goal-driven
- Reliable
These qualities show you’re easy to work with and can handle different tasks. They also hint at your emotional intelligence, which is key in most jobs.
Ethical and Cultural Fit
Companies want workers who share their values and can work with diverse groups. You can show that you’re a good fit by highlighting these traits:
- Culturally aware
- Ethical decision-maker
- Respectful of diversity
- Integrity-driven
- Open-minded
- Collaborative
- Socially responsible
- Inclusive team member
- Trustworthy
- Values-oriented
These traits show you can work well in diverse workplaces. They also hint that you’ll make good choices and treat others fairly.
Effective Ways to Present Skills on a Resume
Showcasing your skills effectively on your resume can grab a hiring manager’s attention and boost your chances of landing an interview. Here are some key strategies to make your skills stand out.
Skills Section Optimization
Start by carefully reading the job description and identifying key skills the employer is looking for. Match these with your own abilities and list them prominently.
Don’t forget to include both hard and soft skills. Hard skills might be “Java programming” or “financial analysis,” while soft skills could include “team leadership” or “problem-solving.”
Incorporating Skills in Work Experience
Your work history is a great place to show off your skills in action. Instead of just listing job duties, focus on your achievements and how you used your skills to get results.
For example, instead of saying “Responsible for sales,” try “Increased sales by 15% using strong negotiation and customer service skills.” This shows the hiring manager exactly how you’ve applied your abilities in real-world situations.
Use action verbs to start each bullet point. Words like “managed,” “created,” or “improved” paint a vivid picture of your capabilities. Related: 50 Powerful Action Verbs for a Resume.