Common Resume Skills to Include

Everyone · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Are Common Resume Skills?

Common resume skills are specific abilities and qualities that show employers how well you can perform in a job. These can be divided into two main categories: hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are job-specific technical abilities like using software, machinery, or tools. Soft skills are personal attributes such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving that help you work effectively with others.

For example, a graphic designer’s common hard skills might include Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator proficiency, while their soft skills could highlight creativity and attention to detail. In contrast, a customer service role may emphasize communication and conflict resolution skills more than technical ones.

Employers use these skills as benchmarks to decide if you have what it takes to succeed in the position. You usually list them in a separate section on your resume or embed them within your job descriptions. Matching your skills to the job description is key to making your resume relevant and attractive.

How Do Resume Skills Work? (With a Detailed Example)

Resume skills work by connecting what you can do with what the employer needs. Hiring managers often scan resumes quickly, searching for keywords that match the job posting. Additionally, many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) — software that filters resumes based on skills and keywords before a human even looks at them.

Here’s a detailed example: Suppose you apply for a marketing coordinator position. The job description lists skills like “content creation,” “SEO knowledge,” “social media management,” and “strong communication.” You should include these exact skills on your resume to increase your chances of making it through the screening.

Your "Skills" section might look like this:

• Content creation for blogs and email campaigns
• SEO tools: Google Analytics, SEMrush
• Social media platforms: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram
• Excellent written and verbal communication

Then, in your work experience, you could describe how you used these skills:

“Developed weekly blog posts increasing web traffic by engaging SEO practices and managing the company’s LinkedIn and Instagram accounts.”

This approach helps both the ATS and hiring manager see the clear match between your skills and the job requirements.

Why Do Common Resume Skills Matter?

Common resume skills matter because they help employers quickly understand your capabilities and how you fit the job. Since many job postings attract hundreds of applicants, your resume has just seconds to catch attention. Highlighting relevant skills ensures you don’t get overlooked.

Skills also help your resume pass ATS filters. These systems scan resumes for specific keywords matching the job description. If your resume lacks those keywords, it might never reach a person for review.

For you, including the right skills means more interview opportunities. It also shows you know what the job requires and that you have real abilities to meet those needs. Plus, it boosts your confidence when discussing your qualifications in interviews.

What Are Some Examples of Common Resume Skills?

Certain skills are widely valuable across many jobs, making them common to many resumes. Here are five essential skills to consider including, with exact wording you might use:

1. Communication: “Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and presentations.”
2. Teamwork: “Proven ability to collaborate effectively in team environments and contribute to group goals.”
3. Problem-solving: “Skilled at identifying issues and developing practical solutions under tight deadlines.”
4. Time management: “Experienced in prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines in fast-paced settings.”
5. Technology proficiency: “Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and CRM software.”

You can also customize these based on the job. For example, if applying for a sales role, you might add “Customer relationship management” or “Negotiation skills.” For a data analyst, “Data visualization with Tableau” or “SQL querying” may be important.

How Are Resume Skills Different from Qualifications or Experience?

Many people confuse skills with qualifications or experience, but they are different parts of your resume story.

• Qualifications refer to formal credentials like degrees, certifications, or licenses. For example, “Bachelor of Science in Computer Science” or “Certified Public Accountant license.”
• Experience means the jobs or projects where you applied your skills, such as “Sales Associate at XYZ Company for 3 years.”
• Skills are the specific abilities you use to perform your job, like “customer service” or “Java programming.”

Think of qualifications as what you’ve earned, experience as where you’ve worked, and skills as what you can do. Your resume sections should reflect this clearly, with Education for qualifications, Work History for experience, and a dedicated Skills section for your abilities.

How Should You Choose Which Skills to List on Your Resume?

Choosing the right skills starts with reviewing the job listing carefully. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Identify Keywords: Highlight skills mentioned in the job description, especially in the “Requirements” or “Preferred Skills” sections.
2. Match Your Skills: List only those skills you genuinely possess that align with the employer’s needs.
3. Use Exact Terms: Mirror the wording from the job posting, as ATS software looks for specific phrases. For instance, if the job says “project management,” use that phrase instead of “managed projects.”
4. Balance Hard and Soft Skills: Include both technical skills relevant to the job and interpersonal skills that show how you work with others.
5. Prioritize: Put the most important skills near the top of your skills section or highlight them in your experience descriptions.

For example, if applying for an administrative assistant position emphasizing “calendar management,” “Microsoft Office,” and “attention to detail,” your skills section might include:

• Calendar management and scheduling
• Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint proficiency
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills

What Should You Do Next to Improve Your Resume Skills?

After identifying the skills to include, consider ways to improve or demonstrate them:

• Take Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or community colleges offer courses on software, communication, or management skills.
• Practice Skills Regularly: Volunteer for tasks at work or in community groups that build skills like teamwork or leadership.
• Use Skill Assessments: Some websites offer free tests to validate your abilities in areas like typing speed, coding, or language proficiency.
• Update Your Resume Often: Each time you gain a new skill or experience, add it to your resume, keeping it current.
• Prepare Examples: Think of specific situations where you applied your skills successfully. Use these stories in your cover letter or interviews to back up your claims.

By actively building and showcasing your skills, you strengthen your resume and your confidence in pursuing new opportunities.

Frequently asked questions

Should I include soft skills on my resume?

Yes. Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are important to employers and can differentiate you from other candidates. Include them alongside hard skills, preferably with examples of how you used them.

Can I list skills I’m still learning?

It’s better to focus on skills you have a solid grasp of. If you’re learning a new skill, you can mention it in your cover letter or interview as part of your eagerness to grow, but avoid listing it as a core skill on your resume.

How do I know if a skill is relevant to the job?

The most relevant skills appear in the job description. Look for repeated terms or those listed as required or preferred. Tailor your resume to highlight those skills to fit the role.

Is it okay to use bullet points to list skills?

Yes, bullet points make your skills easy to scan and help them stand out. Use concise phrases rather than full sentences to keep the section clear and readable.

Can the skills section help if I have little work experience?

Absolutely. Highlighting relevant skills gained through education, volunteering, internships, or hobbies can show employers you have valuable abilities even without extensive work history.