What skills to put on a CV?

What Skills to Put on a CV

Including the right skills on your CV is essential to make a strong impression on employers. Your skills should align with the job requirements and highlight both technical and interpersonal abilities. Here’s how to structure your CV’s skills section effectively:

1. Technical Skills

Technical skills are job-specific and measurable abilities that are often required for the role. These should be prominently listed if they are key to the position.

Examples:

• Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript, C++
• Tools and Technologies: Git, Docker, Jenkins, Kubernetes
• Frameworks: React, Angular, Django, Spring Boot
• Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB
• Cloud Platforms: AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure
• Web Development: HTML, CSS, Node.js
• Office Software: Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace
• Other Technical Skills: SEO, data analysis, graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator)

2. Soft Skills

Soft skills are interpersonal attributes that influence how you work and interact with others. These are valuable in any workplace and should complement your technical skills.

Examples:

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability
• Leadership
• Time management
• Emotional intelligence
• Attention to detail

3. Transferable Skills

Transferable skills are general abilities that can be applied across different roles or industries. Highlight these if they are relevant to the job.

Examples:

• Project management
• Multitasking
• Analytical thinking
• Presentation skills
• Research
• Collaboration
• Customer service

4. Job-Specific Skills

These are unique to the role or industry and should reflect the job description. Tailor your skills to align with the specific requirements.

Examples:

• IT Roles: Network administration, cybersecurity, scripting
• Marketing Roles: Digital marketing, content creation, social media management
• Finance Roles: Budgeting, financial analysis, forecasting
• Education Roles: Curriculum development, student engagement, classroom management

5. Language Skills

If you speak or write multiple languages, include them on your CV, especially if they are relevant to the role.

Examples:

• English (Fluent)
• Spanish (Intermediate)
• French (Basic)

How to Present Skills on a CV

1. Dedicated Skills Section:
   • Create a “Skills” section and group similar skills under categories for clarity.
   • Example:

     Technical Skills
     - Programming Languages: Python, Java, C++
     - Tools: Git, Docker, Jenkins
     

2. Incorporate Skills into Work Experience:
   • Show how you applied your skills in previous roles.
   • Example: “Developed an inventory management system using Python, reducing processing time by 20%.”
3. Tailor Skills to the Job Description:
   • Highlight skills explicitly mentioned in the job posting to ensure your CV is relevant to the role.

Conclusion

Your CV should include a mix of technical, soft, and job-specific skills that match the job requirements. Tailor your skills for each application, emphasizing the ones most relevant to the position. Present them clearly in a dedicated section and integrate them into your work experience to showcase their application.