The Best Skills to Put on a Resume: A Complete Guide

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When applying for jobs, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing which skills to highlight. Employers want to see more than just your work history — they want proof that you have the best skills to put on a resume that match their needs.

If you’ve seen resources like this guide, you’ll know there are countless options to choose from. But how do you decide which ones matter most for your industry and career goals? At Leveraged Resume, we’ve helped thousands of professionals showcase their strengths effectively, and we’re here to break it down for you.

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Why Skills Matter on Your Resume

Your resume isn’t just a timeline of jobs; it’s a marketing document that proves your value. The best skills to put on a resume show hiring managers that you can:

  • Handle the technical demands of the role
  • Adapt to new challenges quickly
  • Communicate and collaborate effectively
  • Bring measurable impact to the workplace

By highlighting both hard and soft skills, you demonstrate not just what you know, but also how you apply that knowledge.

The Two Types of Skills Employers Look For

  1. Hard Skills
    These are specialised, role-related capabilities that can be quantified, tested, or validated through training and certifications. Examples include:
  • Data analysis
  • Coding languages (Python, SQL, Java)
  • Project management tools (Asana, Trello, MS Project)
  • Financial reporting
  • Foreign languages
  1. Soft Skills
    These are personal attributes and interpersonal strengths. Employers value them because they show how you work with others. Examples include:
  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Time management
  • Problem-solving
  • Adaptability

The Best Skills to Put on a Resume (Top Examples)

Here’s a list of in-demand skills across industries that can boost your resume:

  • Communication Skills – Written, verbal, and digital communication across platforms.
  • Leadership & Team Management – Ability to inspire, guide, and support a team.
  • Analytical & Creative Thinking – Approaching obstacles with resourceful strategies and well-reasoned decisions.
  • Technical Proficiency – Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, industry-specific tools.
  • Project Leadership – Organising, managing, and executing initiatives effectively while meeting deadlines and objectives.
  • Customer Service – Building positive relationships and resolving issues effectively.
  • Adaptability – Thriving in dynamic or high-pressure environments.
  • Analytical Skills – Using data and insights to guide decision-making.
  • Creativity & Innovation – Developing fresh ideas that add value.
  • Collaboration – Working seamlessly with diverse teams and departments.

Bringing It All Together

The best skills to put on a resume are those that align with the role you’re targeting and demonstrate your ability to deliver results. A balanced mix of hard and soft skills, backed by examples of your achievements, can make your resume stand out from the crowd.

At Leveraged Resume, we specialize in helping professionals highlight the right skills to maximize their career opportunities. Our expert team knows how to write ATS-friendly resumes that capture attention and open doors.

Eager to highlight your strongest skills on your resume? Contact Leveraged Resume today and let our writers craft a powerful, tailored resume that gets results.

Selecting the Most Relevant Skills for Your Resume

  1. Study the Job Description
    Look for keywords the employer uses — they often highlight exactly what they want.

 

  1. Match Your Skills to the Role
    Don’t list everything you know. Prioritise skills that align directly with the job you’re applying for.

 

  1. Show Proof
    Back up your skills with achievements. For example:

    Instead of just “Project Management,” write: “Managed a $2M project from start to finish, delivering ahead of schedule.”

  1. Keep It Balanced
    Aim for a mix of hard and soft skills to show you’re both technically capable and people-oriented.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overloading your resume with too many skills
  • Using generic terms like “hardworking” or “good team player” without context
  • Forgetting to tailor your skills to each application
  • Leaving out technical or digital skills relevant to modern workplaces
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