Best Skills to Put on a Resume That Employers Actually Want

Choosing the right skills to list on a resume can make the difference between landing an interview or getting passed over. A strong resume skills section isn't just about showing what you can do—it's about showing what's relevant to the job you want.

Many job seekers assume this part is simple: list your skills, done. But it's more nuanced than that. No experience? No problem. Learn how to match your soft and transferable skills with a great resume summary for no experience.

The real challenge? Knowing which work skills employers are actually looking for—and how to present them in a way that gets noticed.

Should you include soft skills or hard skills? Are your technical abilities clear enough? Does your resume reflect the key skills listed in the job description?

This guide breaks down exactly how to choose and organize your resume skills list. Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, you'll learn how to showcase job-related skills that hiring managers care about. Here's what this guide from JobHun will help you with:

• The different types of skills for a resume
• Why skills matter in job applications
• How to list skills on a resume to stand out
• 15+ best skills to include on any resume
• 500+ examples of work skills for various industries

Use this as your go-to resource for building a resume skills section that gets results.

Why JobHun for Building Your Resume Skills?

At JobHun, we understand how crucial it is to showcase the right skills that employers actually want to see. That's why our free AI-powered resume builder and ATS-friendly resume checker tools are designed to help you highlight your most valuable hard and soft skills effortlessly.

Whether you're a fresh graduate, career changer, or seasoned professional, JobHun's smart suggestions and skill optimization features ensure your resume stands out — both to applicant tracking systems (ATS) and hiring managers. Plus, our platform offers personalized tips based on your target job, helping you tailor your skills and experience perfectly.

Choose JobHun to create a resume that opens doors, impresses recruiters, and lands you interviews faster.

Start by visiting JobHun.com.

Once you're on the homepage, click the 👤 profile icon in the upper-right corner. This will take you to JobHun’s resume builder web app.

You’ll land on webapp.jobhun.com/mine.

If you’re not logged in yet, the site will prompt you to sign up or log in.

• Click the “New Resume” button, or
• Click “Go to Login” in the upper-right corner.

Either option will take you to the sign-in page.

You have two login options:

• Use your Google account for quick access
• Or manually enter your email, password, and name, then click “Go”

Once you're signed in, your personal dashboard will appear.

Now that you’re logged in, your profile details (name, email, join date) will show in the top-right corner.

Click the “New Resume” button again to open the AI resume builder.

The resume builder layout is split into two main parts:

• Left panel: Your control dashboard, where you can add, edit, or organize resume sections (summary, experience, skills, etc.)
• Right panel: A live preview of your resume that updates as you make changes

You can now:

• Use AI to auto-generate resume content
• Manually edit each section
• Format, reorder, and polish until you're happy with the result

Types of Skills

When it comes to writing a standout resume, understanding the different types of skills is essential. Skills reflect the abilities, competencies, and strengths you bring to a job—and they give hiring managers insight into whether you're equipped for the role. Wondering how many skills you should actually include? Here's a breakdown of how many skills to list on a resume to keep things balanced and focused.

There are two main types of job skills to include on a resume: hard skills and soft skills. Both play a critical role in shaping how you perform at work and how well you fit within a team or company culture.

To build a strong resume skills section, you need to include a balance of both. Here's how they differ:

Hard Skills

Hard skills refer to the technical knowledge and abilities you've learned through training, education, or hands-on experience. These skills are often measurable, job-specific, and tied directly to tasks or responsibilities in a given role.

Hard skills examples include:

• Machinery operation – e.g. operating a forklift, pallet jack, or industrial equipment in warehouse or construction settings
• Software proficiency – using tools like Adobe Creative Suite (for designers), Ableton (for DJs), or Figma (for UI/UX)
• Digital marketing tools – such as Google Analytics, Search Console, SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Stethoscope
• Languages – being fluent in Spanish, German, Arabic, or Mandarin can significantly increase your value, especially in global teams or customer-facing roles
• Basic and advanced computer skills – from Microsoft Office and Google Workspace to programming in Python, JavaScript, or PHP
• Specialized techniques – skills like crystallization, gamification, CPR, or UX testing methodologies
• Mathematical knowledge – relevant for jobs in accounting, finance, data science, or engineering; this might include algebra, statistics, or calculus
• Data analysis – extracting insights from data to support decision-making is a high-demand skill across industries

If a skill can be taught, tested, and directly tied to job performance, it's likely a hard skill—and it belongs in your resume skills list.

Soft Skills

Soft skills are personal attributes and interpersonal abilities that shape how you interact, work with others, and manage your time and responsibilities. While they're less quantifiable than hard skills, they're just as crucial in most workplaces.

Unlike technical skills, soft skills are transferable—meaning they can be applied across different roles, industries, and situations. They show hiring managers how you approach collaboration, communication, and conflict resolution.

Here's a list of highly valued soft skills for resumes:

• Communication
• Time management
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability
• Leadership
• Teamwork
• Critical thinking
• Work ethic
• Emotional intelligence
• Creativity
• Stress management
• Conflict resolution
• Attention to detail
• Organization
• Interpersonal skills

While you can take a course to improve your coding or Excel skills, developing soft skills often takes time, real-world experience, and conscious effort. For instance, improving communication might involve active listening, recognizing body language, and refining your public speaking.

Both hard and soft skills give recruiters a complete picture of what you bring to the table. When you're building a list of skills for your resume, make sure to include a mix that reflects your professional strengths, job requirements, and the value you offer.

Difference Between Hard and Soft Skills

Hard skills and soft skills may both be essential for getting hired, but they differ in three key ways: how you acquire them, how you use them on the job, and how you present them on a resume. If you're a student or recent graduate, pair your skill set with a strong first impression using these resume summary examples for students.

How you develop them: Hard skills are learned through structured experiences—think coursework, certifications, hands-on training, or previous jobs. These are technical or professional skills, like coding in Python or using Excel for data analysis. Soft skills, on the other hand, are shaped by personal experience. Skills like communication, leadership, or adaptability are often built through everyday interactions, both inside and outside of work.

How they're applied: Hard skills are task-specific and directly tied to job duties. For example, if you're a UX designer, knowing how to use Figma is a practical necessity. Soft skills support how you approach those tasks. A communicative UX designer who collaborates well with developers and product managers is much more effective than someone with only technical know-how.

How they're listed on your resume: On your resume, hard skills can be quantified. You can mention your proficiency level—such as "Advanced in Adobe Photoshop" or "Fluent in SQL." Soft skills, however, are more abstract. You wouldn't say you're "95% creative"—instead, you'd show your creativity through your portfolio, achievements, or how you describe past experiences.

Ultimately, both hard and soft skills shape how you contribute in a professional setting. If two candidates have the same technical qualifications, hiring managers often choose the one with better interpersonal or communication skills—those intangible strengths that help teams thrive.

Why List Skills on Your Resume

Your skills section isn't just a filler—it's one of the most important parts of your resume, right next to your work history.

Recruiters and hiring managers scan for key skills within seconds. In fact, studies show that 41% of recruiters check the skills section first before reading anything else.

On top of that, most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes. These systems scan for relevant resume skills and abilities examples based on the job description. If your resume doesn't contain those keywords—like "JavaScript," "data analysis," or "project management"—it could be rejected before a human ever sees it.

Even if the company isn't using an ATS, hiring managers often spend just a few seconds reviewing a resume. They're scanning for relevant job skills to see if you're worth a deeper look.

For example, let's say you're applying for a software engineer position that specifically mentions JavaScript. If your resume highlights Python, C++, and Java—but doesn't mention JavaScript—you may get filtered out by the ATS or overlooked by the recruiter.

With up to 75% of resumes being screened out in the initial round, having the right skills list on your resume can make or break your chances of moving forward.

That's why it's crucial to identify the key skills for the job, tailor your resume accordingly, and format them clearly so they stand out.

How to List Skills on a Resume

Now that you understand the importance of job skills, it's time to focus on how to present them effectively. A well-structured skills section can boost your chances of passing the ATS and catching a hiring manager's attention fast.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown on how to list skills on your resume strategically.

#1. Tailor Your Skills to the Job

The most effective resume skills are always aligned with the job you're applying for.

Hiring managers don't want to see a generic skills list—they want to know if you meet their requirements. That means reading the job description carefully and only listing relevant skills that match what the employer is looking for.

Example:

If you're applying for a backend developer role, technical proficiencies like Python, SQL, or database management are essential. However, unrelated skills—like customer service from a part-time college job—won't strengthen your application and should be left out.

Here's how to identify what skills belong:

1. Read the job post closely.
2. Highlight the required skills and responsibilities.
3. Cross-check with your own background.
4. Include the matching job skills on your resume.

Let's break this down with a job ad example:

Line Cook Job Posting Key Requirements:

• Experience in a fast-paced kitchen
• Strong attention to detail
• Familiarity with food safety standards
• Teamwork and communication
• Passion for French cuisine

Based on this, here's a relevant skills list for resume targeting the role:

• Culinary Techniques
• Food Preparation
• Knife Handling
• Plating and Presentation
• Kitchen Safety & Sanitation
• Time Management
• Team Collaboration
• Working Under Pressure
• Verbal Communication

Avoid listing unrelated skills, like proficiency in Excel or Photoshop. Keep it focused on the role.

#2. Create a Skills Section

Once you've identified your best skills for the job, create a clearly labeled "Skills" section on your resume.

A standalone skills section helps with ATS optimization and gives recruiters a quick view of what you bring to the table. It also increases your visibility in keyword scans.

Formatting Tips for the Resume Skills Section:

• Be specific – Instead of "communication," use "verbal and written communication."
• Order by relevance – Put the most job-critical skills at the top.
• Combine soft and hard skills – If you don't have many skills to list, group them into a single, well-formatted section.
• Keep it honest – Don't include skills you're not confident using in a professional context.

Where to place it: Ideally, your skills section should appear toward the top of your resume—either above or next to the work experience section, depending on your layout.

This helps hiring managers immediately see that you have the key qualifications they're looking for.

#3. Match Each Skill With Your Proficiency Level

For hard skills like software or tools, it's helpful to indicate how well you know them. This gives employers context and sets realistic expectations.

Skill proficiency levels you can include:

• Beginner – You've learned the fundamentals but have little to no hands-on experience.
• Intermediate – You've applied the skill in real situations and can work independently most of the time.
• Advanced – You're fully confident in using the skill and can mentor others.
• Expert – You're considered an authority or go-to person in this area.

Example:

• Python – Advanced
• Excel – Intermediate
• Salesforce – Beginner

Avoid rating soft skills (like creativity or adaptability) with levels—they're too subjective and better demonstrated through achievements or context.

#4. Back-Up Your Skills in Other Resume Sections

Listing your skills for jobs in one section is good. Showing how you've applied them in real situations is even better.

Use your resume summary, work experience, and even hobbies and interests to reinforce the skills and abilities you listed.

Resume Headline

Whether you're using a resume summary or a resume objective, include at least 1–2 key skills pulled from the job description.

Example – Resume Summary:

Detail-oriented data entry specialist with 4+ years of experience maintaining 99% accuracy rates. Skilled in Microsoft Excel, data verification, and large database management.

Example – Resume Objective (for less experienced candidates):

Recent marketing graduate with hands-on experience in Canva, content writing, and social media strategy. Eager to contribute creative communication skills to a fast-paced agency environment.

Work Experience

Back up your professional skills examples with measurable accomplishments. Show what you've done—not just what you claim you can do.

Example – Work Experience for Data Entry:

• Processed over 10,000 records with 99.8% accuracy
• Reduced data entry turnaround time by 20% using Excel shortcuts
• Collaborated with the IT team to improve data-cleaning systems

Hobbies and Interests

When relevant, even your personal interests can highlight work-related skills.

Example: If the job values creativity, and you run a podcast or write fiction in your free time—mention it. If you lead a sports team, it demonstrates leadership and teamwork.

Tip: Always tie hobbies back to soft skills or personality traits the job demands.

#5. Put Transferable Skills to Use

If you're a recent graduate or switching careers, transferable skills are your best assets.

These are skills that carry over from one role to another, even across industries.

Example: Career change from Sales to Copywriting

• Written Communication – Both roles rely on clear, persuasive writing
• Persuasion – Sales strategies translate directly into conversion copy
• Technical Literacy – Familiarity with CRM tools in sales becomes useful in CMS and content publishing

Don't underestimate these. If framed properly, transferable skills can strengthen your application even when you don't have direct experience.

15+ Best Skills to Put on Any Resume

By now, you know how to list your skills. The next step is knowing which skills actually make an impact on a resume—regardless of your profession or industry.

While every job comes with its own set of hard skills, there's a group of soft skills that hiring managers look for across the board. These are the core professional abilities that define how you work with others, how you approach problems, and how you adapt to change.

In fact, a LinkedIn study shows that 93% of employers consider soft skills essential when making hiring decisions. Whether you're applying to be a UX designer, operations associate, retail lead, or marketing analyst, these are the top resume skills that can help your application stand out.

#1. Communication Skills

Every job requires some form of communication. Whether you're explaining project goals, writing reports, pitching ideas, or simply collaborating with your team, strong communication skills are a must.

This isn't just about talking. Communication is a layered skill that includes:

• Verbal and written communication
• Active listening
• Non-verbal cues
• Presentation and public speaking
• Feedback and conflict negotiation
• Persuasion and influence

When crafting your resume skills list, be specific. Say "skilled in written client communication" instead of just "good communicator."

#2. Problem-Solving

Being able to identify a problem, analyze its cause, and take smart action is a skill every employer values.

Whether you're managing customer complaints, fixing technical issues, or optimizing inefficient workflows, strong problem-solving abilities are a sign that you take initiative and deliver results.

Some resume-ready examples of problem-solving skills include:

• Root cause analysis
• Data interpretation
• Critical thinking
• Decision-making
• Brainstorming creative solutions
• Strategic planning under constraints

This is one of the best skills to have on a resume, especially in dynamic, fast-paced roles.

#3. Conflict Resolution

Disagreements and friction are part of every workplace. What sets great employees apart is how they handle them.

Conflict resolution skills show that you're emotionally intelligent, able to maintain professionalism, and committed to building a healthy team environment.

Key components include:

• Objective thinking
• De-escalation techniques
• Assertive communication
• Mediating between parties
• Active empathy
• Emotional regulation

If you're applying for leadership, customer-facing, or HR roles, this belongs high on your skills list.

#4. Computer Literacy

In today’s digital world, basic computer skills are no longer optional—they're expected in nearly every role, even non-technical ones.

Whether you're inputting data, working with cloud platforms, or navigating internal tools, showing your comfort with tech is key.

Some essential computer skills for resume inclusion:

• Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Google Workspace
• Email and calendar management
• Social media tools
• CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Content Management Systems (WordPress, Shopify)
• Typing speed and accuracy
• Troubleshooting and IT basics

Tailor this section based on what’s used in your field—but don’t leave it out.

#5. Research

Strong research skills help you gather the right information, evaluate it critically, and apply it effectively to real-world problems.

In a hiring context, this shows that you think strategically and are capable of making informed decisions—great traits for roles in marketing, law, consulting, and academia.

Examples of resume research skills:

• Internet research and source vetting
• Market or industry trend analysis
• Survey design and interpretation
• Competitor benchmarking
• Report writing and presentation
• Fact-checking and citation

Being resourceful and thorough is an asset in almost any field.

#6. Teamwork

Success rarely happens in isolation. Companies want people who can collaborate, contribute to team goals, and support others while maintaining their own performance.

Whether you're part of a small task force or a large cross-functional team, teamwork skills reflect your ability to be both reliable and adaptable.

Core teamwork competencies:

• Cooperative communication
• Flexibility in team settings
• Conflict resolution
• Accountability
• Listening and giving feedback
• Motivating others
• Respecting diverse viewpoints

This is one of the most commonly requested skills on resumes—and it always belongs in yours.

#7. Project Management

While typically associated with formal project manager roles, project management skills are valuable across countless job titles—from marketing coordinators to operations analysts and even freelance creatives.

At its core, project management is about making things happen—on time, within budget, and according to plan. Whether you're leading a team or working solo, being able to juggle timelines, delegate tasks, manage risk, and deliver results is a highly desirable work skill.

Here are some in-demand project management skills for resume inclusion:

• Timeline and task planning
• Milestone tracking and resource coordination
• Risk management and contingency planning
• Budget and logistics oversight
• Agile or Scrum methodologies
• Cross-functional communication
• Stakeholder reporting and accountability

Even if your title doesn’t include “Project Manager,” having these skills for job application shows that you can take initiative and execute with structure.

#8. Leadership

You don’t need to manage people to demonstrate leadership skills. True leaders influence outcomes, build trust, and bring out the best in others—whether they have a team under them or not.

Strong leadership is one of the key skills employers look for, especially in roles involving decision-making, team collaboration, or strategic vision.

Great leadership involves:

• Coaching and mentoring
• Inspiring motivation
• Delegating effectively
• Driving team alignment
• Creative problem-solving
• Relationship-building
• Strategic foresight

From startup teams to corporate environments, leadership abilities remain one of the best skills to have on a resume in 2025.

#9. Organization

Hiring managers value candidates who can stay on top of their responsibilities without constant oversight. That’s where organizational skills come in.

This category of resume skills and abilities examples reflects how well you manage time, tasks, and resources to stay productive and efficient.

A well-organized professional can:

• Plan and prioritize complex projects
• Keep physical and digital environments clutter-free
• Meet overlapping deadlines without burnout
• Create systems to streamline daily tasks

Key organization skills for resume:

• Calendar and schedule management
• Digital file organization
• Workflow creation
• Time blocking
• To-do list mastery
• Multi-tasking across teams and tools

If you’re someone who color-codes spreadsheets or maintains shared documentation for your team, highlight this as a professional strength.

#10. Time Management

Time is one of the few things you can’t earn back, and time management skills show employers that you use it wisely.

Being able to prioritize tasks, avoid distractions, and meet deadlines is critical in almost every role—especially in remote work or hybrid setups where autonomy matters.

Strong time management includes:

• Task scheduling and deadline tracking
• Focus and concentration strategies
• Delegation and coordination
• Adjusting plans based on shifting priorities
• Avoiding procrastination and unnecessary multitasking
• Managing energy alongside time

Time management skills also overlap with stress management and productivity—making them a favorite for both hiring managers and recruiters.

#11. Customer Service

No matter your industry, customer service skills signal that you know how to deal with people—especially when things don’t go as planned.

These skills aren’t just for cashiers or call center agents. They’re critical in sales, account management, tech support, and any client-facing position.

Strong customer service resume skills include:

• Clear and empathetic communication
• Product knowledge and problem-solving
• Conflict de-escalation
• Active listening and solution-oriented responses
• Maintaining professionalism under pressure
• Persuasion and objection handling

Whether you’re calming down a frustrated customer or resolving billing issues via email, these professional skills show that you’re reliable, composed, and people-focused.

#12. Networking

Networking skills go far beyond attending conferences or collecting LinkedIn connections. They’re about building meaningful, long-term professional relationships.

This skill is especially important in sales, partnerships, and business development—but also valuable for project leads, HR professionals, and freelancers looking to grow their reach.

Examples of strong networking skills include:

• Conversational confidence
• Emotional intelligence and empathy
• Active listening and thoughtful follow-ups
• Relationship nurturing over time
• Cultural awareness in diverse environments
• Building trust across departments or industries

Even if your role isn’t focused on outreach, being able to connect with others internally can open doors and build influence.

#13. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is the ability to process information logically, evaluate facts objectively, and make well-reasoned decisions—especially when the answer isn’t obvious.

It’s one of the most sought-after key skills for employment because it helps you approach problems strategically instead of reactively. Whether you're in business analysis, product design, or operations, this is a valuable skill to highlight.

Strong critical thinking skills include:

• Logical reasoning
• Asking the right questions
• Distinguishing facts from opinions
• Evaluating arguments
• Avoiding cognitive bias
• Synthesizing information from multiple sources

If your role involves decision-making, problem-solving, or evaluating options, this belongs on your resume skill list.

#14. Adaptability

In today’s fast-changing job market, adaptability is more important than ever. Employers want people who can pivot when priorities shift, technology evolves, or teams reorganize.

Adaptable employees stay calm under pressure, absorb feedback quickly, and aren’t afraid to try something new—all qualities that help businesses stay competitive.

Examples of adaptability skills:

• Learning new tools and workflows quickly
• Handling change with flexibility
• Staying productive in uncertain environments
• Taking on unfamiliar tasks without resistance
• Adjusting communication styles for different audiences
• Navigating hybrid or remote work environments

If you’ve ever worked through company restructuring, remote transitions, or industry shifts, your ability to adapt is worth showcasing.

#15. Attention to Detail

Small errors can lead to big problems. That’s why attention to detail is one of the most important professional skills to have—especially in roles involving documentation, data entry, quality control, or editing.

This skill shows that you’re thorough, meticulous, and take pride in your work. It also reassures employers that they can count on you to get things right the first time.

Examples of attention to detail skills:

• Proofreading and double-checking work
• Spotting inconsistencies in data or reports
• Following detailed instructions precisely
• Reviewing work for errors before submission
• Cross-checking with multiple sources
• Creating polished, well-organized deliverables

For industries like finance, law, healthcare, and engineering, this is a non-negotiable resume skill.

#16. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage both your own emotions and the emotions of others. It’s a critical skill for collaboration, conflict resolution, and leadership.

High EQ employees tend to communicate more effectively, build stronger work relationships, and resolve tension before it escalates—making them incredibly valuable in team-based settings.

Key emotional intelligence skills include:

• Self-awareness and emotional regulation
• Empathy and perspective-taking
• Managing stress and workplace dynamics
• Non-defensive communication
• Giving and receiving feedback constructively
• Reading nonverbal cues

If your role requires frequent collaboration or stakeholder engagement, emotional intelligence is a must-add to your skills for jobs section.

500 Must-Have Skills for Different Professions

Not sure which skills to highlight on your resume? You're not alone.

To help you build a stronger and more targeted application, we've put together a comprehensive list of job-specific skills tailored to the top industries hiring in 2025. These hard and soft skills are not only relevant—they’re in high demand.

If you already possess some of these key work skills, don’t hesitate to include them in your resume’s skills section. And if you spot a gap? That’s a great cue for upskilling or enrolling in a short course.

#1. Retail and Sales Skills

Retail and sales jobs rely on a combination of interpersonal ability and product knowledge. While the way customers shop has evolved with digital tools, the foundation of selling remains the same: trust, communication, and value.

Here are some of the best skills to put on a retail or sales resume:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
• Cold-calling
• Sales negotiation
• Product demonstrations
• Closing techniques
• Upselling and cross-selling
• Inventory and stock management
• Point of Sale (POS) system operation
• Lead generation
• Merchandising and visual displays
• Buyer engagement strategies
• Social selling and digital communication
• Product knowledge
• Active listening
• Service-based selling
• Personalized customer interactions
• Conflict resolution
• Time management
• Multitasking in high-traffic environments
• Team collaboration
• Emotional intelligence
• Follow-up strategies
• Return and exchange process management
• Empathy and rapport building
• Adaptability and resilience

#2. Customer Service Skills

Excellent customer service skills go far beyond answering questions—they involve solving problems quickly, building trust, and turning frustration into loyalty.

Whether you're in tech support, retail, or hospitality, these are the top resume skills for customer service roles:

• Active listening and verbal communication
• Conflict de-escalation
• Customer needs analysis
• Technical troubleshooting
• CRM and ticketing systems (e.g., Zendesk, Salesforce)
• Phone and email etiquette
• Complaint resolution
• Multichannel support (live chat, phone, email)
• Adaptability in fast-paced environments
• Time management
• Patience and empathy
• Stress and emotional regulation
• Feedback collection and reporting
• Data entry accuracy
• Decision-making under pressure
• Team coordination
• Client retention strategies
• Service personalization
• Multilingual support
• Privacy and data confidentiality awareness

#3. Hospitality Skills

In the hospitality industry, success means creating seamless, welcoming experiences for every guest. These roles demand a mix of soft skills and operational knowledge, making versatility a must.

Here are the key skills for hotel, resort, and tourism professionals:

• Guest relations and service excellence
• Reservation and booking systems (e.g., Opera PMS)
• Foreign language proficiency
• Conflict management
• Tour and activity coordination
• Front desk operations
• Time management under pressure
• Attention to detail
• Concierge services
• Event and function planning
• Check-in/check-out procedures
• Cash handling and point-of-sale systems
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity
• Health and hygiene compliance
• Emergency protocol familiarity (e.g., CPR, evacuation)
• Upselling and promotional communication
• Loyalty program administration
• Hospitality software (e.g., RoomKey, Maestro)
• Guest feedback handling
• Team leadership and delegation
• Environmental sustainability practices
• Flexibility in shift work

#4. Food and Beverage Skills

The food and beverage industry is one of the most fast-paced and customer-facing fields. From front-of-house service to back-of-house operations, your resume should reflect a strong blend of technical and soft skills.

Here’s a powerful list of skills for chefs, servers, bartenders, and culinary staff:

• Food safety and sanitation (e.g., ServSafe certification)
• Recipe development and culinary creativity
• Menu design and seasonal adaptation
• Kitchen equipment operation and care
• Food plating and presentation
• Allergen and dietary restriction awareness
• Beverage service and wine pairing
• Bartending and mixology
• POS system usage (e.g., Toast, Square)
• Fast-paced multitasking
• Time and portion control
• Conflict resolution with guests
• Inventory and stock rotation
• Waste minimization and cost control
• Table setting and etiquette
• Catering coordination
• Event food service logistics
• Guest feedback response
• Shift scheduling and coordination
• Cross-functional teamwork
• Communication under pressure
• Attention to detail
• Adherence to food regulations and policies

#5. Marketing and Advertising Skills

The world of marketing and advertising is evolving rapidly, fueled by emerging technologies, shifting consumer behavior, and data-driven decision-making. To stay competitive in 2025, professionals in this space need more than just creativity—they need technical fluency, analytical thinking, and platform expertise.

Whether you're a digital marketing specialist, brand manager, or advertising executive, here are essential marketing skills to include on your resume:

• Data analysis and audience insights
• SEO and SEM (Search Engine Marketing)
• Web analytics (e.g., Google Analytics, Hotjar)
• Conversion rate optimization (CRO) and A/B testing
• Paid advertising (PPC, Meta Ads, Google Ads)
• Email marketing automation (Mailchimp, HubSpot)
• Content marketing and storytelling
• Social media strategy and mobile engagement
• Copywriting and creative messaging
• Digital advertising across channels
• B2B and B2C marketing tactics
• CMS platforms (e.g., WordPress, Shopify)
• HTML, CSS basics for marketers
• Web scraping and competitor research
• Influencer and affiliate marketing
• Public relations and brand positioning
• Market segmentation and consumer psychology
• Campaign planning and execution
• Data visualization and dashboard reporting
• Budget management and ROI tracking
• Marketing compliance and ad policy knowledge
• Branding and visual identity management
• Growth hacking and funnel optimization
• CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Multichannel strategy development

#6. Administrative Skills

Administrative professionals are the organizational backbone of any company. Whether you’re managing schedules, documents, or office logistics, your skills ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

These administrative resume skills are highly transferable across industries and job levels:

• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar)
• Data entry and document formatting
• Digital filing and cloud storage systems
• Meeting and calendar management
• Travel and event coordination
• Inventory tracking and supply management
• Time management and deadline prioritization
• Office equipment operation and troubleshooting
• Presentation creation and formatting
• Technical writing and proofreading
• Expense reporting and reimbursement tracking
• Basic bookkeeping and invoice management
• CRM and task management tools (e.g., Trello, Asana)
• Confidentiality and document security
• Receptionist and front-desk etiquette
• Internal and external correspondence
• Report generation and minute taking
• Email and phone communication etiquette
• Organizational workflow optimization
• Recordkeeping and compliance
• Vendor communication and scheduling
• Customer service and client support
• Task delegation and follow-up
• Problem-solving and multitasking under pressure

#7. Human Resources (HR) Skills

Human Resources professionals are more than just recruiters—they shape culture, resolve conflict, and ensure long-term organizational health. Whether you're in talent acquisition, learning and development, or employee relations, your resume should reflect a solid mix of soft skills and HR tech expertise.

Here’s a comprehensive list of HR skills for resume success:

• Recruitment and talent sourcing
• Employee onboarding and training programs
• Performance management systems
• Employee engagement and retention strategies
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
• Conflict resolution and workplace mediation
• Emotional intelligence and interpersonal communication
• Succession planning and workforce forecasting
• Organizational development and change management
• HR compliance and labor law knowledge
• Compensation and benefits administration
• Payroll software and HRIS platforms (e.g., BambooHR, Workday)
• Employee relations and internal communications
• Cross-cultural team management
• Job description writing and role analysis
• Workforce analytics and HR data reporting
• Coaching and mentoring programs
• Policy creation and handbook management
• Interviewing and selection techniques
• Exit interviews and offboarding procedures
• Safety, wellness, and mental health advocacy
• Budget planning for HR initiatives
• Employer branding and recruitment marketing
• Adaptability to legal and cultural shifts

#8. Business Skills

Whether you're managing operations, developing strategy, or supporting financial goals, strong business skills are a must. Business professionals play a pivotal role in keeping organizations profitable, agile, and aligned with market trends.

Here are top business-related skills for your resume:

• Strategic planning and goal setting
• Budgeting and financial forecasting
• Profit & loss (P&L) management
• Business intelligence and data analysis
• Market and competitor research
• Risk assessment and mitigation strategies
• Process improvement and operations optimization
• ERP and CRM software proficiency (e.g., NetSuite, Salesforce)
• Stakeholder and client relationship management
• Business ethics and compliance understanding
• Contract negotiation and deal closing
• Leadership and team development
• Change management and scalability planning
• Customer lifecycle management
• Business writing and executive reporting
• Innovation and product development strategy
• Sales forecasting and pricing strategy
• Supply chain and logistics oversight
• KPI tracking and performance dashboards
• Agile and Lean methodologies
• Presentation and pitch delivery
• Digital transformation strategy
• E-commerce operations and revenue growth
• Cloud-based productivity tools and platforms

#9. Finance and Accounting Skills

Modern finance and accounting professionals must combine deep numerical knowledge with fluency in digital tools and compliance practices. Whether you’re handling financial forecasts or internal audits, the ability to process data accurately and strategically is essential.

Here are top finance skills to list on your resume:

• Microsoft Excel (advanced functions and formulas)
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
• Accounting software (QuickBooks, FreshBooks, Xero)
• Financial reporting and analysis
• Tax preparation and planning
• Revenue recognition principles
• GAAP and IFRS compliance
• Big data analysis and visualization
• SQL for financial data manipulation
• Financial modeling and forecasting
• Risk management strategies
• Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance
• Audit planning and coordination
• Investment and credit analysis
• Budgeting and cost control
• Cash flow analysis and liquidity planning
• Strategic planning and project financing
• Mergers and acquisitions support
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• KYC (Know Your Customer) and regulatory protocols
• Visual Basic and Excel macros
• Business communication and stakeholder reporting
• Portfolio and asset management
• Financial compliance and ethical standards
• IBM Cognos Analytics or similar BI tools
• Clear documentation and policy interpretation
• Problem-solving in financial contexts

#10. IT and Tech Skills

In today’s fast-evolving tech landscape, IT professionals must adapt quickly, whether managing infrastructure, writing code, or deploying cloud-based solutions. Proficiency in both development and operations is more important than ever.

Here are some of the most in-demand IT skills to include on your resume:

• Programming languages (Python, Java, C++, JavaScript)
• Web development (HTML5, CSS3, React, Angular)
• Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform)
• Database management (MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB)
• DevOps practices (CI/CD pipelines, GitHub Actions)
• Containerization (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Cybersecurity principles and risk management
• Operating systems (Linux, Windows Server, macOS)
• Networking fundamentals and configuration
• System architecture and design thinking
• IT support and troubleshooting protocols
• Scripting (PowerShell, Bash)
• Software testing and debugging
• API integration and development
• Machine learning and AI concepts
• Agile, Scrum, and Kanban methodologies
• Mobile app development (iOS, Android SDK)
• Performance tuning and optimization
• Virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V)
• UX/UI principles for software design
• Blockchain technologies
• Version control (Git, SVN)
• SEO and web performance analytics
• Data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI)
• Communication and documentation

#11. Nursing and Healthcare Skills

In healthcare, technical precision must blend seamlessly with empathy and adaptability. Whether you’re in acute care, pediatrics, or mental health, nursing and healthcare skills must reflect both medical expertise and human connection.

• Patient care and bedside manner
• Vital signs monitoring and documentation
• Infection control and safety protocols
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification
• Phlebotomy and IV administration
• Medication management and dosage calculation
• Surgical prep and post-op support
• Electronic Medical Records (EMR/EHR) systems
• Wound care and dressing changes
• Emergency room (ER) and triage care
• Pediatric and geriatric care experience
• Oncology and palliative care understanding
• Telemetry monitoring
• Patient education and counseling
• CPR and BLS certification
• Psychosocial support and psychiatric assistance
• Medical terminology and charting
• Compassion and empathy
• Physical stamina and endurance
• HIPAA compliance and confidentiality
• Interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork
• Cultural sensitivity and inclusive care
• Time management in high-pressure environments
• Ethical decision-making in patient care

#12. Art and Design Skills

In the modern creative industry, artistic talent is just one piece of the puzzle. Art and design professionals must also master digital tools and create content that connects with diverse audiences across print, web, and social platforms.

• Graphic design and brand identity
• Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
• Typography and layout design
• UX/UI design principles
• Web design (HTML, CSS, responsive design)
• Motion graphics (Adobe After Effects)
• 3D modeling and animation (Blender, Maya)
• Storyboarding and creative concept development
• Illustration and digital painting
• Photo editing and color correction
• Video editing (Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro)
• Social media graphics and ad creatives
• Packaging and print design
• Prototyping (Figma, Sketch, InVision)
• Visual storytelling and branding
• Content creation for multi-channel campaigns
• Data visualization and infographics
• Augmented and virtual reality design (AR/VR)
• Composition and visual hierarchy
• Design accessibility standards
• Creativity and visual problem-solving
• Client communication and revision workflows
• Project management and time tracking
• Exhibition and environmental graphics

#13. Education and Teaching Skills

Great educators do more than teach—they inspire, adapt, and lead. As digital tools and hybrid learning environments grow, educators must integrate tech-savvy skills with traditional pedagogical excellence.

• Lesson planning and curriculum design
• Classroom management and engagement strategies
• Assessment and grading techniques
• Educational technology (Google Classroom, Zoom, LMS)
• Differentiated instruction for diverse learners
• Research and academic writing
• Child and adolescent psychology
• Student safety and conflict resolution
• Communication with parents and caregivers
• Critical thinking and creativity facilitation
• Patience and adaptability
• Public speaking and instructional delivery
• Time management in multi-class settings
• Leadership in student-centered learning
• Remote and hybrid teaching practices
• Counseling and mentorship support
• Inclusion and special education strategies
• Professional development and continuous learning
• Education policy understanding
• Digital literacy integration into lessons
• Cultural competence in diverse classrooms
• Team collaboration with faculty and administration
• Data-driven instruction based on student performance
• Student motivation and behavior management
• Career counseling and academic advising

#14. Legal Skills

Whether you're a paralegal, legal assistant, or practicing attorney, the legal field demands precision, discretion, and a deep understanding of complex regulatory systems. A strong legal resume should reflect both hard and soft skills that demonstrate your ability to interpret the law, manage casework, and support clients effectively.

• Legal research and writing
• Case preparation and file management
• Document drafting (contracts, pleadings, affidavits)
• Legal compliance and risk mitigation
• Knowledge of legal terminology
• Litigation support
• E-discovery tools and practices
• Legal software proficiency (e.g., Clio, LexisNexis, Westlaw)
• Deposition and trial preparation
• Regulatory compliance (e.g., HIPAA, GDPR, SOX)
• Due diligence and investigation
• Legal proofreading and citation formatting
• Court filing procedures (state and federal)
• Contract negotiation and review
• Legal project management
• Ethics and confidentiality
• Conflict resolution and mediation
• Time tracking and billing software (e.g., Timeslips)
• Interpersonal communication and client relations
• Multitasking under pressure
• Analytical reasoning and argument building
• Business law, intellectual property, or criminal law (field-specific knowledge)
• Professional conduct and courtroom etiquette
• Team collaboration with legal professionals

#15. Engineering Skills

Engineering professionals solve real-world problems through innovation, technical precision, and structured analysis. Whether you’re a mechanical, civil, software, or electrical engineer, your resume should showcase a balanced mix of technical competencies and project-based accomplishments.

• CAD software proficiency (AutoCAD, SolidWorks)
• Engineering mathematics and applied physics
• Technical documentation and report writing
• Project lifecycle management (PLM)
• Finite element analysis (FEA)
• Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)
• Programming (MATLAB, Python, C++)
• Quality assurance and testing protocols
• Engineering drawing interpretation
• Electrical systems and circuit design
• Thermodynamics and fluid mechanics
• Mechanical systems analysis
• Materials science and strength testing
• Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
• Structural analysis and load calculations
• Engineering standards and codes (e.g., ISO, ANSI, ASME)
• 3D modeling and simulation
• Safety and risk assessment
• Sustainable design practices
• Prototype development and testing
• Process optimization
• Construction planning and oversight
• Troubleshooting and diagnostics
• Cross-functional collaboration with design, QA, and manufacturing teams
• Regulatory and environmental compliance
• Strong math and analytical thinking

#16. Writing and Content Creation Skills

Whether you're a copywriter, journalist, content strategist, or technical writer, exceptional writing is about more than just grammar—it’s about clarity, persuasion, audience targeting, and platform awareness. Writers today must balance creativity with SEO, branding, and digital tools.

• Content writing and storytelling
• Copywriting for web, email, and social media
• SEO writing and keyword optimization
• Editing and proofreading
• Grammar, syntax, and style consistency
• Audience analysis and voice adaptation
• Research and fact-checking
• AP/Chicago/MLA style guidelines
• Blog and article writing
• Technical documentation (e.g., manuals, SOPs)
• Ghostwriting
• Scriptwriting for video or podcasts
• Social media content strategy
• Content calendar planning
• Content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Ghost)
• Email marketing and newsletter writing
• UX writing and microcopy
• AI content tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Jasper)
• Brand tone and message consistency
• Legal and compliance writing
• Creative writing
• Data storytelling and visualization
• Journalistic ethics and sourcing
• Publication outreach and guest posting
• Performance tracking (Google Analytics, HubSpot)

#17. Logistics and Supply Chain Skills

Logistics professionals are the backbone of operational efficiency, ensuring the smooth movement of goods, services, and data across networks. In today's global economy, strong logistics skills combine tech tools, strategy, and coordination.

• Inventory management
• Supply chain optimization
• Warehouse management systems (WMS)
• Transportation coordination
• Fleet management
• Procurement and vendor negotiation
• Import/export documentation
• Route planning and logistics software (e.g., SAP, Oracle SCM, NetSuite)
• Demand forecasting
• Just-in-time (JIT) delivery systems
• Order fulfillment and returns processing
• Lean logistics
• Quality control and inspection
• Freight cost analysis
• Risk and contingency planning
• ERP system knowledge
• Barcode/RFID scanning systems
• Process standardization
• Cold chain logistics (for food/pharma)
• Sustainability and green logistics
• Compliance with international trade laws
• Contract logistics
• Cross-functional coordination (sales, operations, suppliers)
• KPI monitoring and reporting
• Reverse logistics

#18. Science and Research Skills

Whether in academia, healthcare, biotech, or industry R&D, science and research professionals are driven by precision, inquiry, and data analysis. A great science resume highlights methodical thinking, technical tools, and the ability to communicate complex ideas.

• Scientific method and hypothesis testing
• Laboratory techniques and instrumentation
• Experimental design and analysis
• Data collection and interpretation
• Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, MATLAB)
• Research documentation and reporting
• Academic publishing and peer review
• Literature review and synthesis
• Clinical research protocols (GCP, IRB compliance)
• Technical writing and grant proposals
• Microscopy and spectroscopy
• Chemical analysis (e.g., titration, chromatography)
• Molecular biology techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis)
• Sample preparation and storage
• Fieldwork and environmental sampling
• Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Data visualization and presentation
• Cross-disciplinary collaboration
• Scientific ethics and safety
• Journal submission procedures
• Bioinformatics or cheminformatics tools
• Research funding strategy
• Experimental troubleshooting
• Hypothesis refinement and replication

#19. Entrepreneurship and Startup Skills

Entrepreneurs wear many hats—from strategy and product development to marketing and finance. If you’ve launched, led, or scaled a business, your resume should reflect your agility, innovation, and ability to turn ideas into action.

• Business development
• Strategic planning and growth hacking
• Lean startup methodology
• Financial forecasting and budgeting
• Fundraising and pitch deck creation
• Product-market fit analysis
• Go-to-market strategy
• Market research and validation
• Customer acquisition and retention
• Digital marketing and performance ads
• Branding and positioning
• Team leadership and hiring
• Operational efficiency
• Agile project management
• KPI tracking and OKR setting
• MVP development
• Investor relations and stakeholder management
• Adaptability and decision-making under pressure
• Negotiation and persuasion
• Business model innovation
• Legal structuring and compliance
• Bootstrap and resource management
• User testing and iteration
• Sales funnel development
• Delegation and time management

#20. HR Tech and People Analytics Skills

Modern HR is as much about data as it is about people. With the rise of HR tech and people analytics, professionals in this field must combine empathy with tech fluency and data-driven decision-making.

• HRIS (e.g., Workday, BambooHR, SAP SuccessFactors)
• Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
• Employee data analysis
• Predictive analytics for retention and performance
• Recruitment marketing automation
• Talent acquisition metrics (e.g., time to hire, quality of hire)
• Compensation analytics
• Organizational development tools
• Diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) tracking
• Sentiment analysis and employee surveys
• Performance management systems
• Learning management systems (LMS)
• Onboarding workflow automation
• People dashboards and reporting (Tableau, Power BI)
• Workflow optimization tools (Zapier, Trello)
• Change management platforms
• Workforce planning
• Remote employee engagement tools (e.g., Slack, Lattice)
• Legal and compliance automation tools
• Exit interviews and attrition analysis
• Benefits tech platforms (Gusto, Zenefits)
• HR chatbot tools (e.g., Leena AI)
• Succession planning with AI insights
• HR data privacy and ethics
• Cross-functional team alignment

FAQ about Listing Skills on Your Resume

Still wondering what skills to include on your resume or how to present them effectively? Here are clear answers to some of the most common questions:

Q1: What types of skills should I include on my resume?

Your resume should showcase both hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities you gain through education, training, or experience—like graphic design, coding, or foreign languages. Soft skills, on the other hand, are personal qualities that shape how you work and interact, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Including a balanced mix tailored to the job will make your resume stand out.

Q2: What are the top skills employers are currently seeking?

In 2025, employers highly value hard skills like data analysis, blockchain development, SEO, AI, project management, and UX design. On the soft skills side, creativity, collaboration, persuasion, emotional intelligence, and adaptability top the list. Focusing on these will boost your chances across many industries.

Q3: How can I discover which skills I have?

Start by reflecting on your achievements: what skills helped you succeed? Ask colleagues, friends, or mentors for their perspective—they often notice strengths you might overlook. If you’re new to the workforce, former teachers or classmates can offer helpful insights too.

Q4: Where should I list my skills on a resume?

Create a dedicated Skills section, ideally positioned near your work experience for easy visibility. Beyond this, weave key skills into your resume summary and work history, using examples to demonstrate how you’ve applied those skills successfully.

Q5: How many skills should I include?

Aim for a focused list—usually around 7 to 10 relevant skills works best. This keeps your resume concise and targeted. If you have extensive experience, prioritize the skills most important to the job and avoid overcrowding your resume.

Q6: What skills are best for candidates with little or no experience?

If you’re just starting out, highlight transferable skills that apply across many roles and industries—like communication, organization, problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, and basic computer skills. These will show your potential even without extensive job history.

Q7: Which 12 skills are essential on almost any resume?

Some skills are valuable no matter the role or industry. These include: communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, computer literacy, research, teamwork, project management, leadership, organization, time management, customer service, and networking.

Q8: Do I need a skills section on my CV?

Yes, unless you’re preparing an academic CV, which often follows a different format. For job applications, your CV should have a skills section tailored to the role, just like a resume.

Q9: How should I list skills on my resume in 2025 to make the best impression?

Don’t just dump a list of skills. Instead, tailor your skills to the job description and company culture. Highlight your strongest skills in your resume summary or objective, and back them up with concrete achievements in your work experience. This approach proves you truly have what it takes.

Key Takeaways

You’re now ready to confidently showcase your skills on your resume! Here’s a quick recap of the most important points to remember:

• The Skills section is one of the first places hiring managers look—over 40% check it right away.
• Including the right skills helps your resume pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) by matching essential keywords.
• Skills fall into two categories: hard skills (technical, job-specific abilities) and soft skills (personal traits that impact how you work).
• Only list skills that are directly relevant to the job. Scan the job ad carefully to pick out what employers want.
• Some skills, like adaptability, communication, and teamwork, are valuable across virtually all roles and industries.
• Make your skills credible by integrating them into your resume headline and work experience, showing how you’ve applied them to deliver results.

With these tips in hand, your resume will clearly communicate your strengths and make a lasting impression.