Skills to Put on Resume That Employers Want

Introduction

In today's competitive job market, having the right skills on your resume can make the difference between landing an interview and being overlooked. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who possess both technical expertise and soft skills that align with their company culture and values.

This comprehensive guide will help you identify the most in-demand skills across various industries, understand how to showcase them effectively on your resume, and position yourself as the ideal candidate for your dream job.

Why Skills Matter on Your Resume

Your skills section is often the first thing recruiters and hiring managers scan when reviewing resumes. It provides a quick snapshot of your capabilities and helps them determine if you're a good fit for the position. Here's why skills are crucial:

• ATS Optimization: Applicant Tracking Systems scan for specific keywords and skills
• Quick Assessment: Recruiters spend an average of 6-7 seconds reviewing each resume
• Competitive Advantage: Relevant skills help you stand out from other candidates
• Interview Preparation: Your skills section guides interview questions and discussions

Most In-Demand Skills for 2024

Technical Skills (Hard Skills)

Soft Skills (Transferable Skills)

How to Identify Your Skills

Before listing skills on your resume, take time to identify and assess your capabilities. Here's a systematic approach:

Self-Assessment Questions

• What tasks do I excel at in my current or previous roles?
• What feedback have I received from managers and colleagues?
• What tools, software, or technologies am I proficient with?
• What problems have I successfully solved?
• What training, certifications, or education have I completed?
• What volunteer work or side projects have I undertaken?

Research Industry Requirements

Study job postings in your target industry to identify commonly requested skills. Look for patterns in requirements across multiple positions to understand what employers value most.

How to Organize Skills on Your Resume

Skills Section Best Practices

• Categorize Skills: Group related skills together (Technical, Soft Skills, Languages, etc.)
• Prioritize Relevance: Place the most relevant skills for the job at the top
• Use Keywords: Include industry-specific terminology and acronyms
• Be Specific: Instead of "Microsoft Office," list "Excel, PowerPoint, Word"
• Show Proficiency Levels: Use terms like "Advanced," "Intermediate," or "Basic" when appropriate

Skills Section Template

Industry-Specific Skills

Technology & IT

Focus on programming languages, cloud platforms, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies like AI/ML, blockchain, and IoT.

Healthcare

Emphasize patient care, medical software, regulatory compliance, and specialized certifications relevant to your role.

Finance & Accounting

Highlight financial analysis, accounting software, regulatory knowledge, and risk management skills.

Marketing & Sales

Showcase digital marketing tools, CRM systems, analytics platforms, and customer relationship skills.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Listing Irrelevant Skills: Only include skills that are relevant to the position you're applying for
• Being Too Generic: Avoid vague terms like "good communication" - be specific
• Overstating Proficiency: Don't claim expertise in skills you're not confident with
• Ignoring ATS Keywords: Research and include industry-specific keywords
• Forgetting to Update: Regularly review and update your skills section

How to Demonstrate Skills in Your Resume

Don't just list skills - show how you've used them to achieve results:

Example: Technical Skills in Action

Example: Soft Skills in Action

Keeping Your Skills Current

The job market is constantly evolving, and so should your skills. Here's how to stay competitive:

• Continuous Learning: Take online courses, attend workshops, and pursue certifications
• Industry Research: Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies
• Networking: Connect with professionals in your field to learn about new skills in demand
• Side Projects: Work on personal projects to develop and showcase new skills
• Regular Updates: Review and update your skills section every 3-6 months

Conclusion

Your skills section is a powerful tool that can significantly impact your job search success. By carefully selecting, organizing, and demonstrating your relevant skills, you can create a compelling resume that captures the attention of employers and helps you stand out in a competitive market.

Remember that skills are not static - they should evolve with your career and the changing demands of your industry. Regular assessment and development of your skills will ensure you remain competitive and valuable to employers throughout your professional journey.