How to write your resume Skills section

The skills part is equally important as your work experience section.

Tomas Ondrejka avatar
Written by Tomas Ondrejka
Updated over a week ago

Before you start writing, you should know the difference between the two types of skills: hard skills and soft skills.

Then, how to make your skills stand out?

  1. Focus on what’s most relevant. Do you have any of the skills mentioned in the advertisement for your desired job? Good. Makes sure to include them in your resume’s skills section.

  2. Organize your skills into subcategories. Divide your skills section into several subsections like computer skills, soft skills, languages, and others.

  3. Don’t underestimate soft skills. 67 percent of HR managers said they’d hire a candidate with strong soft skills even if his or her technical abilities were lacking. On the contrary, only 9 percent would hire someone with strong technical credentials but weak soft skills.

  4. There are skills you shouldn’t include. Never include any skills you don’t have, skills that have nothing to do with the job, skills everybody should have, or skills that have become obsolete.

Tips:

  • Skills section should consist of 5 - 8 bullet points that best represent your abilities.

  • Keep the phrases short and action-oriented.

  • Use word rating for your language skills (e.g., native, professional, limited).

For more information, check our ultimate resume guide or our Help Center

Did this answer your question?