Technical skills can make or break your chances of landing a job. They show employers what you can do and how you can help their company succeed. Adding the right technical skills to your resume can boost your chances of getting hired.
You might wonder which technical skills to include on your resume. It depends on your field, but some common ones are productivity software, data analysis, and project management tools. We’ll explore more examples and how to showcase them effectively in your job search.
Examples of Key Software and Tools
Office and Productivity Software
Microsoft Office is a must-know for most jobs. You’ll likely use Word for documents, Excel for spreadsheets, and PowerPoint for presentations. Google’s G Suite offers similar tools that are popular in many workplaces.
Examples
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- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
- Expert in Google Workspace
- Advanced Excel formulas and macros
- PowerPoint presentation design
- Efficient document creation in Word
- Collaborative editing in Google Docs
- Data visualization using Excel charts
- Mail merge expert in Word
- Google Sheets pivot table creation
- Outlook email and calendar management
Graphic Design and Video Creation
Visual content is key in many roles. Adobe Creative Suite is the industry standard for design work. Canva is a user-friendly option for quick graphics.
Examples
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- Adobe Photoshop image editing
- Video production with Adobe Premiere
- Canva design for social media
- Logo creation using Illustrator
- InDesign layout for print materials
- Motion graphics in After Effects
- Photo retouching and restoration
- Infographic design using Piktochart
- 3D modeling with Blender
- Video editing with Final Cut Pro
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
ERP systems help manage business processes. CRM tools track customer interactions. Both are vital in many industries.
Examples
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- SAP ERP modules implementation
- Salesforce CRM customization
- Oracle NetSuite financial reporting
- Microsoft Dynamics 365 integration
- HubSpot lead nurturing campaigns
- Zendesk ticket management
- Workday HR system administration
- QuickBooks inventory tracking
- Zoho CRM sales pipeline management
- ServiceNow IT service management
Accounting Software and Tools
Financial pros need to know accounting software. QuickBooks is popular for small businesses, while larger companies might use SAP or Oracle.
Examples
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- QuickBooks Online bookkeeping
- SAP Financial Accounting module
- Xero bank reconciliation
- FreshBooks expense tracking
- Wave invoicing and payments
- Sage 50cloud financial reporting
- Oracle E-Business Suite GL entries
- ADP payroll processing
- Bill.com accounts payable automation
- TurboTax tax return preparation
Examples of Technical Skills by Industry
Different industries require specific technical skills. Here are some key abilities valued across various professional fields.
Examples of Technical Skills: STEM and Information Technology
Examples
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- Proficient in Python and Java
- Experienced with SQL databases
- Skilled in cloud computing (AWS, Azure)
- Knowledgeable in machine learning algorithms
- Familiar with Agile development methodologies
- Capable of network troubleshooting
- Adept at cybersecurity best practices
- Experienced in mobile app development
- Proficient with version control systems (Git)
- Skilled in data visualization tools (Tableau)
These skills show you can handle complex technical tasks. Employers look for candidates who can hit the ground running.
Examples of Technical Skills: Healthcare and Engineering
Healthcare and engineering roles need specialized knowledge. You should emphasize your technical expertise and certifications.
Examples
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- Certified in electronic health records (EHR) systems
- Skilled in CAD software for 3D modeling
- Experienced with lab equipment and procedures
- Proficient in biomedical device maintenance
- Knowledgeable in HIPAA compliance
- Capable of reading and interpreting medical charts
- Adept at using robotic surgical systems
- Experienced in circuit design and analysis
- Proficient with finite element analysis software
- Skilled in PLC programming for industrial automation
These skills demonstrate your ability to work with advanced technology in critical fields. They show you can handle the technical demands of healthcare and engineering roles.
Examples of Technical Skills: Accounting and Finance
Financial roles require strong analytical and software skills. You should highlight your proficiency with relevant tools and processes.
Examples
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- Experienced with financial modeling in Excel
- Skilled in data analysis using SAS
- Knowledgeable in blockchain technology
- Capable of using automated accounting systems
- Adept at risk assessment software
- Experienced in tax preparation software
- Proficient with financial reporting tools
- Skilled in forecasting and budgeting software
- Proficient in QuickBooks and SAP
These skills show you can handle complex financial data and use modern tools. They indicate you’re ready for the tech-driven world of finance.
Examples of Technical Skills: Education and Research
In education and research, you need skills for analysis and presentation. Focus on your abilities to gather, process, and share information.
Examples
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- Experienced with learning management systems (LMS)
- Proficient in statistical analysis software (SPSS)
- Skilled in academic database research
- Knowledgeable in data collection methods
- Capable of using citation management tools
- Adept at creating educational multimedia content
- Experienced in survey design software
- Proficient with text analysis tools
- Skilled in remote teaching platforms
- Knowledgeable in research ethics compliance systems
These skills show you can handle the technical side of education and research. They indicate you’re ready to use modern tools to enhance learning and discovery.
Customizing Technical Skills for Each Application
- Tailor your technical skills for every job application. Read the job posting carefully. Note which skills they’re looking for.
- Move the most relevant skills to the top of your list. If possible, use the exact terms from the job description. Some companies use software to scan resumes for specific keywords.
- Remove or downplay skills that don’t fit the role. This helps your most important abilities stand out.
- If you’re switching careers, highlight transferable technical skills. These might include project management tools or data analysis software you’ve used in other fields.