Skills to put into a cv are specific, demonstrable abilities that show you can perform job tasks effectively. They include technical proficiencies, soft skills, and domain-specific knowledge relevant to the role. Employers scan for these to assess fit quickly.
CVs with targeted skills outperform generic ones. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 75% of employers prioritize skills over academic credentials when reviewing entry-level applications. This includes both hard skills-like data analysis or software use-and soft skills such as communication and problem-solving.
Recruiters spend an average of six seconds scanning a CV. Skills listed early and increase the chance of being shortlisted. A well-placed list of relevant skills signals competence and reduces hiring friction.
Skills appear in three main areas: the summary section, the skills section, and within job descriptions. The most effective placement is a dedicated "Skills" section near the top, especially for roles requiring specific tools or certifications.
For example, a marketing coordinator applying for a digital advertising role should list: Google Ads, Meta Ads Manager, A/B testing, conversion rate optimization, and CRM software (e.g., HubSpot). These terms match keywords in job postings and improve visibility in applicant tracking systems (ATS).
When describing past roles, embed skills in bullet points using action verbs and metrics. Instead of "Responsible for social media," write: "Increased Instagram engagement by 42% through targeted content and analytics-driven scheduling." This shows the skill (social media management) and proves impact.
There are three core categories: hard skills, soft skills, and transferable skills. Hard skills are teachable, measurable abilities tied to tools or processes. Soft skills involve interpersonal behavior. Transferable skills apply across industries.
| Type | Examples | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Hard Skills | Python, SQL, AutoCAD, Salesforce, financial modeling | Technical jobs, engineering, finance, IT |
| Soft Skills | Conflict resolution, time management, active listening | Leadership, customer service, team-based roles |
| Transferable Skills | Project coordination, stakeholder communication, budget oversight | Job changers, career switchers, recent graduates |
Hard skills are often required in job ads. If a posting asks for "experience with Excel pivot tables and VLOOKUP," including those exact terms increases matching in ATS. Missing them may result in automatic rejection-even if you're qualified.
Soft skills are harder to verify but highly valued. A 2023 LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report found that 92% of talent professionals consider soft skills equally or more important than technical expertise. However, listing "team player" or "hard worker" without context fails to demonstrate value.
Use specific examples. Instead of "good communicator," write: "Led weekly cross-functional syncs with 12 teams, reducing project delays by 30%." This shows communication, organization, and results-all in one line.
Many applicants list vague or irrelevant skills. "Microsoft Office" appears on 68% of CVs but lacks specificity. A better version: "Advanced Excel (PivotTables, VLOOKUP, macros), PowerPoint presentation design." This clarifies proficiency level and usage.
Another error is overloading the skills section. Including 20+ items dilutes focus. Limit to 8-12 skills that align with the job description. Prioritize relevance over completeness.
A non-obvious fact: some skills are not worth listing unless you can explain them in an interview. For example, "Agile methodology" is common-but if you've only read about it, don't include it. Employers test depth during interviews. Listing unverified skills risks exposure.
I once reviewed a CV where the candidate claimed "expertise in AWS cloud architecture." During the interview, they couldn't explain basic concepts like EC2 or S3. The employer withdrew the offer. Authenticity matters more than buzzwords.
Consider a job posting for a Project Manager at a tech startup:
An ideal CV response would include:
Under the job entry:
Managed 12-week Agile sprints for a mobile app launch, delivering features on time and under budget. Coordinated 5 cross-functional teams using Jira dashboards and daily standups. Reduced release cycle time by 25% through automated testing integration.
This demonstrates all required skills in context. The candidate didn't just list "Agile"-they showed how they applied it.
Start by analyzing job descriptions. Identify recurring keywords. Tools like Jobscan or SkillSyncer compare your CV against job posts and flag missing skills.
Look beyond the job ad. Research company values. A nonprofit focused on sustainability might value "grant writing" or "community outreach" even if not listed. These are transferable skills that signal cultural fit.
Don't assume all skills are equal. Some are baseline requirements. Others differentiate you. A graphic designer with "Adobe Illustrator, motion graphics, brand identity development" stands out more than one who lists "creative thinking" and "attention to detail."
Before sending your CV:
Skills to put into a cv must be precise, relevant, and verifiable. They turn a document into a tool for opportunity. Focus on what matters to the employer-not what sounds good on paper.