Although the exact content of your resume depends on your experience and the job for which you are applying, there are a few top skills that almost all employers want to see listed. To improve your chance of success in your next job search, list the following hard and soft top skills on your resume.
1. Problem solving: Almost every job involves some element of problem solving. Whether you want to work as part of a sales team or as a software developer, it is almost certain that a problem will develop at some point during your career. When that occurs, you need to have the necessary skills to think on your feet and find an acceptable solution to the problem.
2. Communication: There are almost no jobs that do not involve communicating with others. That's why all employers are looking for communication skills on your resume. Depending on the job for which you are applying, you might want to explicitly state that your oral or written communication skills are strong.
3. Teamwork: The ability to work with other people is one of the top skills in the workplace. Use your resume to highlight times when you successfully worked as part of a team.
4. Flexibility: Being able to adapt to new situations and environments is important for professional success. Make sure your resume demonstrates your ability to be flexible among your top skills.
5. Organization and time management skills: Employers want to know that you can manage your own schedule. You need to be good at meeting deadlines and organizing your own work. Experience of managing other people is a bonus.
6. Computing: Being comfortable using a computer is essential for most office roles. If you have experience of using particular software, then make sure it is listed on your resume.
7. Data analysis: Big data is a big trend at the moment, and many jobs involve some form of data analysis. Data analysis should be listed among your top skills if you have the necessary experience.
8. Negotiation: Negotiation is important in many roles, especially those that involve communicating with clients or suppliers. If you can negotiate effectively, let your potential employer know!
9. Design: Design skills are in demand in many creative roles, from web design to creating new marketing materials. Include examples of times when you successfully used your design skills on your resume.
10. Mathematics/numeracy: Graduates in mathematics and other highly numerate subjects, such as physics or engineering, are in high demand in many industries. List any qualifications you have in mathematics, science or engineering to improve your attractiveness to employers.
The particular skills that appear most prominently on your resume will depend on the role for which you are applying. However, including some of the top skills listed above can help you appeal to employers and be successful in your job search.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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