Do You Know What Skills to Include on Your Resume?
You are unique–one of a kind, there is no doubt about it!
Do you juggle fire? This might not be exactly what I am talking about, however, the skills listed on your resume should set you apart from the competition.
If you used a resume template or software program it probably gave you hints when it prompted you to fill in your skills in the correct resume skills field. Right?
What did you put in there? I’m going to take a guess and say that 
“Microsoft Office” is in there somewhere. No? GREAT!
Most employers in today’s job market assume that candidates know basic computer skills (with the exception of some industries, of course, there are always exceptions.) So you can leave those off unless the job description specifically asks for it.
Did you create a cool new app that cut time by 30%?
Do you speak any foreign languages?
Were you part of team that increases sales by 50%?
These are the types of skills to include on your resume.
Before you rush off to edit your resume, here are some things to consider:
Resume Template vs. Professional Resume Critique
You need to start somewhere, right? If you used a template or software to create your resume, it might be a good idea to also get a FREE professional critique of your resume. Real live people who have years and years of experience with this type of thing will give you feed back. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Do Your Skills Listed Match the Job Description?
You don’t have to rewrite your entire resume with each new job you apply for, but it is good to highlight the skills that are most relevant to the position. This makes it easy for the person reviewing it to immediately see that you are a great candidate. Plus, there is only so much room on your resume.
For example, if you are applying for a job in the restaurant industry, the cooking class you took in Italy from a 5 Star Michelin chef should be at the top of your list. But if the job is in an office and the only food you’ll be dealing with is what to order for lunch, than you can leave that off.
SHOW Don’t TELL
Soft skills, people skills, street smarts, whatever you call it–they matter and you should include these skills on your resume as well. However, it is ideal if you demonstrate how you use these skills and how they benefit others, rather than just list them.
For example:
Instead of training skills you could exemplify it with:
“I am patient and thorough when explaining things and am often asked to train new employees.”
Instead of organized, you could explain it better this way:
“I am very organized and creative so I was put in charge of planning team building activities each quarter.”
Know the Industry
It pays to know the latest updates and trends in your industry. Demonstrate your knowledge in your cover letter and resume by using industry terms, statistics (when relevant), and lingo.
If you are new to the field than study up! Talk to people, read trade magazines, and network. Do whatever you can to learn as much as you can about the the industry, the business, and the specific job your are applying for.
What are some creative ways you have highlighted skills on your resume? I’d love to hear them and so would other job seekers!
Good luck out there. Please let me know how I can help.
Join Our Discussion
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