EXPERT ANSWER
May 20, 2019 - 04:08 PM
Examples of skills that people write on their resumes include "soft" skills, such as communication, time management and cross-collaborations skills, as well as "hard" skills, such as the ability to speak another language, or expertise in machinery operation or a software suite.
The best way to determine the skills to list on your resume is to read the job posting carefully, and highlight the skills needed for the job that you also possess. When you customize your resume and profile the skills you have that the job ad calls for, be sure to use the exact language featured in the ad. If the job ad calls for an applicant to have superior "communication skills," do not state on your resume that you have excellent "verbal and written skills. "Write" communication skills." This ensures that you are not rejected by an ATS (automatic tracking system). The ATS may reject you for listing yourself as a team player when the job ad states, "able to work in teams." (This bears repeating – use the posting's exact wording whenever possible).
Employers decide on resumes in a matter of seconds, so it's best to focus on the skills the organization is seeking, such as proficiency in a certain software or an industry certification. This bit of advice goes back to what was stated in the previous paragraph – use the job ad as a guide to which skills to list on your resume. Businesses these days are placing a greater emphasis on soft skills such as good communication, time management, and leadership abilities. If you’re unsure of what skills to list in your resume, you can also talk to professionals in your field (or check out their LinkedIn profiles) to discern which skills are currently highly sought in your industry.
If you think you'll need help writing the skills section of your resume, put LiveCareer's Resume Builder to work, and get top-notch assistance in no time at all.
The best way to determine the skills to list on your resume is to read the job posting carefully, and highlight the skills needed for the job that you also possess. When you customize your resume and profile the skills you have that the job ad calls for, be sure to use the exact language featured in the ad. If the job ad calls for an applicant to have superior "communication skills," do not state on your resume that you have excellent "verbal and written skills. "Write" communication skills." This ensures that you are not rejected by an ATS (automatic tracking system). The ATS may reject you for listing yourself as a team player when the job ad states, "able to work in teams." (This bears repeating – use the posting's exact wording whenever possible).
Employers decide on resumes in a matter of seconds, so it's best to focus on the skills the organization is seeking, such as proficiency in a certain software or an industry certification. This bit of advice goes back to what was stated in the previous paragraph – use the job ad as a guide to which skills to list on your resume. Businesses these days are placing a greater emphasis on soft skills such as good communication, time management, and leadership abilities. If you’re unsure of what skills to list in your resume, you can also talk to professionals in your field (or check out their LinkedIn profiles) to discern which skills are currently highly sought in your industry.
If you think you'll need help writing the skills section of your resume, put LiveCareer's Resume Builder to work, and get top-notch assistance in no time at all.
Didn't see your question?
About LiveCareer Q&A
