How Many Skills Should You Put on a Resume?

Key Takeaways (Summary)

• Skills are crucial on a resume: They showcase your abilities and competencies that make you the right fit for the job.
• Types of skills: There are hard skills (specific, teachable abilities), soft skills (interpersonal skills), and transferable skills (abilities that can be used in various jobs and industries).
• Ideal number of skills to include: Aim to list between 5 and 10 key skills on your resume. However, this can vary depending on your level of experience and the specific job you’re applying for.
• Relevance is key: Make sure the skills you list align with the job you’re applying for. Match your skills with the job requirements and include industry-specific skills.
• Customize your resume: Tailor your skills section and use keywords from the job description. Highlight relevant experiences in your work history section.
• Honesty is paramount: Be truthful about your skill level. Exaggerating skills on your resume can have serious consequences.
• Placement of skills: Skills can be placed in a dedicated skills section or woven into your work history.
• Describing skills effectively: Be specific and concise when describing your skills. If appropriate, indicate your proficiency level for each skill.

Understanding Resume Skills

Definition of Resume Skills

Resume skills are specific abilities or competencies that you bring to a job. They can be technical skills related to the job, like proficiency in a certain software, or soft skills, like communication or problem-solving. The key is to list skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for and that you can confidently demonstrate, often through your work experience.

Why Resume Skills are Crucial in Job Hunting

In the competitive job market, simply listing your previous roles and responsibilities isn’t enough. Employers want to know what skills you have that make you a good fit for the job. Your skills section is your chance to show them.

Skills on your resume can make the difference between your application being overlooked and landing an interview. They help recruiters quickly understand what you bring to the table and how you can contribute to their team. Plus, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that scan resumes for specific keywords—often, these are skill-related.

So, whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, understanding how to effectively list your skills on your resume is a crucial part of the job hunting process. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into this topic in the following sections.

Types of Skills to Include on Your Resume

Examples of Hard, Soft, and Transferable Skills

The table can be placed in the section “III. Types of Skills to Include on Your Resume” after the sub-section “C. Transferable Skills: What They Are and Examples”.

Type of Skill	Examples
Hard Skills	Proficiency in a foreign language, Machine operation, Computer programming, Data analysis, Graphic design
Soft Skills	Leadership, Communication, Problem-solving, Time management, Adaptability
Transferable Skills	Project management, Research and analysis, Customer service, Sales and negotiation, Multitasking

When it comes to the skills section of your resume, it’s important to understand that not all skills are created equal. There are different types of skills that employers look for, and understanding these can help you craft a more effective resume. Let’s break them down:

Hard Skills: What They Are and Examples

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that you’ve gained through training, education, or experience. They’re often industry-specific and can be easily measured or tested. For example, if you’re applying for a job as a software developer, hard skills might include proficiency in programming languages like Python or Java, or experience with database management.

Here are a few examples of hard skills:

• Proficiency in a foreign language
• Machine operation
• Computer programming
• Data analysis
• Graphic design

Soft Skills: What They Are and Examples

Soft skills, on the other hand, are more subjective and harder to quantify. They’re often referred to as “people skills” or “interpersonal skills” and relate to how you interact with others in the workplace. Examples of soft skills include communication, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork.

Here are a few examples of soft skills:

• Leadership
• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Adaptability

Transferable Skills: What They Are and Examples

Transferable skills are abilities that can be used in various jobs and industries. They’re skills that you acquire over time and can “transfer” from one job to another. For example, project management skills can be useful in many different roles and industries.

Here are a few examples of transferable skills:

• Project management
• Research and analysis
• Customer service
• Sales and negotiation
• Multitasking

Remember, the key is to include a mix of hard, soft, and transferable skills on your resume that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to determine the right number of skills to list on your resume. Stay tuned!

Determining the Number of Skills to List on Your Resume

Now that we’ve discussed the types of skills to include on your resume, let’s tackle another common question: How many skills should you list? This can be a bit tricky, as there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, there are some guidelines you can follow.

The Ideal Number of Skills to Include

As a rule of thumb, aim to list between 5 and 10 key skills on your resume. This number allows you to showcase a range of abilities without overwhelming the reader, and also helps to maintain the ideal resume length. Of course, this can vary depending on your level of experience and the specific job you’re applying for. For instance, if you’re a seasoned professional with a wide range of relevant skills, you might list more.

The Dangers of Skill Overload

While it might be tempting to list as many skills as possible to impress potential employers, beware of skill overload. Listing too many skills can make your resume look cluttered and unfocused, and important skills may get lost in the shuffle. Plus, employers might question your proficiency if you claim to have a vast number of skills. It’s better to focus on a select few skills that you can confidently demonstrate and that are most relevant to the job.

Why Quality Trumps Quantity in Resume Skills

When it comes to the skills section of your resume, quality definitely trumps quantity. It’s not about how many skills you list, but rather the relevance and impact of those skills. Focus on the skills that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for and that best showcase your abilities.

Remember, your resume is a marketing tool, and every section should be tailored to the job you’re applying for. This includes the skills section. In the next section, we’ll discuss the importance of tailoring your skills to each job application. Stay tuned!

The Relevance of Skills to the Job You’re Applying For

When it comes to listing skills on your resume, relevance is key. You want to make sure the skills you list align with the job you’re applying for. Let’s delve into this a bit more.

How to Match Your Skills with Job Requirements

One of the best ways to ensure your skills are relevant is to match them with the job requirements. Start by carefully reading the job description. What skills does the employer mention? What abilities are they looking for in a candidate? Make a list of these skills, and then compare it to your own skill set. Which skills do you have that match those listed in the job description? These are the skills you’ll want to highlight on your resume.

The Importance of Industry-Specific Skills

While transferable skills are important, don’t overlook the value of industry-specific skills. These are skills that are particularly relevant to the industry or job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in digital marketing, skills like SEO or Google Analytics would be highly relevant. Be sure to include any industry-specific skills you have on your resume.

Customizing Your Resume for Each Job Application

When it comes to job applications, a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. Each job and company is unique, and your resume should reflect that. This is especially important if you’re making a resume with no experience.

Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Work for Resumes

Employers can tell when you’ve sent the same generic resume to multiple companies. It shows a lack of effort and attention to detail, and it doesn’t make a good impression. Plus, a generic resume isn’t likely to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which many companies use to screen resumes. These systems look for specific keywords—often, the skills listed in the job description.

Tips for Effective Resume Customization

So, how can you effectively customize your resume for each job application? Here are a few tips:

• Read the job description carefully. Identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for.
• Tailor your skills section. Highlight the skills that are most relevant to the job.
• Use keywords. Incorporate keywords from the job description into your resume. This can help your resume pass through ATS and catch the eye of recruiters.
• Highlight relevant experiences. In your work history section, focus on experiences that demonstrate the skills listed in the job description.

Remember, a customized resume not only has a better chance of getting past an ATS, but it also shows employers that you’ve put thought and effort into your application. In the next section, we’ll discuss where to place skills on your resume. Stay tuned!

Skill Placement on Your Resume

Once you’ve identified the skills you want to include on your resume, the next step is to decide where to place them. The placement of your skills can impact how easily they’re spotted by recruiters and ATS systems.

Where to Place Skills on Your Resume

Typically, there are two main places where you can include skills on your resume: in a dedicated skills section, or woven into your work history.

A dedicated skills section is a great way to highlight your skills. This section usually comes near the top of your resume, after your summary or objective statement. Here, you can list your skills in a bullet-point format, making them easy for recruiters to spot.

On the other hand, weaving skills into your work history allows you to show how you’ve used these skills in a practical setting. For example, instead of just listing “project management” as a skill, you might describe a project you managed and the results you achieved.

The Role of the Skills Section in a Resume

The skills section plays a crucial role in your resume. It quickly shows recruiters that you have the skills required for the job. It’s also an area that ATS systems often scan for keywords. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider which skills you include in this section and how you present them.

Describing Your Skills Effectively

Listing your skills is important, but it’s equally important to describe them effectively. This can help you stand out from other candidates and give employers a better understanding of your abilities.

How to Write Compelling Skill Descriptions

When describing your skills, aim to be specific and concise. Avoid vague or generic descriptions, and instead focus on how you’ve used this skill in a practical setting. For example, instead of just listing “communication,” you might say “excellent written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated by presenting at industry conferences and writing detailed reports.”

Showcasing Your Proficiency Level for Each Skill

If appropriate, you can also indicate your proficiency level for each skill. For example, if you’re listing a foreign language, you might specify whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, advanced, or native speaker. However, be honest about your skill levels. If you overstate your abilities, it could lead to problems down the line.

Remember, the goal is to create a clear, concise, and compelling picture of your skills and abilities. In the next section, we’ll discuss the importance of being honest when listing your skills. Stay tuned!

Honesty in Listing Your Skills

When it comes to listing skills on your resume, honesty is paramount. It can be tempting to exaggerate or embellish your skills to make yourself seem more qualified, but this is a strategy that can backfire.

The Importance of Being Truthful About Your Skill Level

Being truthful about your skill level is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures that you’re applying for jobs that you’re genuinely qualified for. If you claim to have skills that you don’t, you could end up in a job that you’re not prepared for.

Second, honesty builds trust. Employers value honesty and integrity, and being truthful about your skills can help establish you as a trustworthy candidate.

The Consequences of Exaggerating Skills on Your Resume

Exaggerating skills on your resume can have serious consequences. If an employer discovers that you’ve lied about your skills, it can damage your professional reputation. It could also lead to job loss if the exaggeration is discovered after you’ve been hired. If you’re struggling with your job search, consider seeking professional help instead of resorting to dishonesty. For instance, you might wonder, can I hire someone to find me a job?

Showcasing Your Best Skills in Different Resume Sections

Highlighting Skills in the Resume Summary

The resume summary is your elevator pitch, the place where you get to make a strong first impression. It’s where you can showcase your most relevant skills and set the tone for the rest of your resume. But remember, it’s important to keep your summary concise. If you’re unsure, check out our guide on how long a resume summary should be.

For example, if you’re applying for a sales role, you might mention your “proven sales skills” or “excellent customer service abilities”. Remember, the goal is to grab the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to read more.

Detailing Job Skills in the Work Experience Section

Your work experience section is the perfect place to highlight both your hard and soft skills. Instead of just listing your job duties, focus on the skills you used to achieve your accomplishments. For instance, if you managed a team, you could highlight your “leadership skills”. If you used specific software or tools, those are your “software skills”. And if your role required you to come up with creative solutions, you’re showcasing your “problem-solving skills”.

Including Skills in the Education and Training Section

Your education and training section isn’t just for listing degrees and certificates. It’s also a great place to highlight the skills you’ve gained from these experiences. For example, if you completed a course in graphic design, you could mention your “design skills”. If you attended a workshop on public speaking, that’s where your “presentation skills” come in. And if you’ve taken part in any training programs related to your field, be sure to highlight the skills you’ve acquired there.

Showcasing Personality Traits and Skills in the Cover Letter

Your cover letter is your chance to show a bit of your personality and to explain why you’re a great fit for the job. This is where you can highlight your soft skills and personality traits that make you unique. Are you particularly organized? That’s your “organizational skills” at work. Do you have a knack for writing? Highlight your “writing skills”. Remember, your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it.

Tailoring Skills for the Particular Job and Positive Work Environment

When writing your resume, always keep the particular job and company culture in mind. Tailor your skills section to fit the job description and emphasize skills that contribute to a positive work environment. For example, if the job posting mentions the need for a team player, you could highlight your “collaboration skills”. If the company values innovation, your “creative problem-solving skills” could be a great fit.

Understanding the Hiring Process: What Employers Look For

Understanding what hiring managers are looking for can help you tailor your resume more effectively. Most hiring managers are looking for a mix of hard and soft skills, as well as signs that you’ll be a good fit for their team. By showcasing your best skills and demonstrating how you’ve used them in the past, you can make your resume stand out and increase your chances of landing that dream job.

Conclusion

Crafting a standout resume can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, you can create a resume that showcases your skills and catches the eye of recruiters. Remember, the goal is not to list as many skills as possible, but to highlight the skills that are most relevant and valuable to the job you’re applying for.

As you embark on your job hunt, remember that your resume is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s also important to prepare for interviews, network, and continue learning and developing your skills. At Career Boost, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From professional resume writing to LinkedIn profile optimization and career coaching, we’ve got you covered. Here’s to your career success!

FAQ

1. What are the top skills hiring managers look for in a resume?

Hiring managers look for a mix of hard and soft skills on a resume. Hard skills are job-specific skills or technical abilities, such as proficiency in a coding language or the ability to use data analysis tools. Soft skills, on the other hand, are interpersonal or “people” skills, like active listening or problem-solving. The “top” skills will vary depending on the job posting and the needs of the company.

2. How can I showcase my customer service skills on my resume?

You can showcase your customer service skills in both the skills section and the work experience section of your resume. In the skills section, you might list things like “excellent communication,” “problem-solving,” or “ability to provide creative solutions.” In the work experience section, you can give concrete examples of times you’ve used these skills in past customer service jobs.

3. How important are computer skills in today’s job market?

Computer skills are increasingly important in today’s job market. Most jobs require some level of computer proficiency, whether it’s basic skills like using Microsoft Office or more advanced technical abilities like using project management software or Adobe Creative Suite. If you have these skills, be sure to include them on your resume.

4. How can I use my resume to showcase my problem-solving skills and critical thinking?

You can showcase your problem-solving skills and critical thinking by providing examples of times you’ve used these skills to complete tasks or come up with creative solutions. This could be in the work experience section of your resume or in your cover letter. For example, you might describe a project where you identified a problem, used critical thinking to come up with a solution, and then implemented that solution.

5. What are some examples of hard skills I could include on my resume?

Hard skills are job-specific skills or technical abilities. Some examples might include proficiency in a foreign language, the ability to use specific software or coding languages, or knowledge of a specific field or industry. The hard skills you should include on your resume will depend on the job you’re applying for. Be sure to look at the job posting to see what hard skills are required or preferred.