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100+ Best Skills for a Resume (Hard & Soft Skills)

Skills are one of the first things recruiters and ATS scan. Here is how to pick the right ones and prove them.

Updated: · 6 min read · AI Resume Builder Career Team

Hard skills vs. soft skills

Hard skills are teachable and measurable: software, languages, methods, certifications. Soft skills are how you work: communication, leadership, problem solving. Lead with hard skills and prove soft skills through your bullet points.

In-demand skills by field

Technology

Python, JavaScript, SQL, cloud (AWS, Azure, GCP), cybersecurity, data analysis, machine learning, DevOps, API design.

Business & marketing

SEO, Google Ads, content strategy, CRM (Salesforce, HubSpot), project management, financial modeling, data visualization.

Healthcare

Patient assessment, EHR (Epic, Cerner), medication administration, infection control, BLS/ACLS.

Trades & operations

Forklift operation, OSHA compliance, blueprint reading, preventive maintenance, inventory management.

Soft skills employers value most

Communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem solving, leadership, time management, attention to detail, customer focus.

How to show your skills

  • List 6–12 relevant hard skills in a dedicated section.
  • Use the exact names from the job description.
  • Prove skills in bullets: “Built Power BI dashboards used by 200 managers.”
  • Remove outdated or irrelevant skills (e.g. basic Microsoft Word for senior roles).

Not sure which skills fit your role? Use the AI skill suggester in the resume builder.

Frequently asked questions

How many skills should I list?
Usually 6–12 relevant skills.
Should I rate my skills with stars or bars?
Avoid it — ratings are subjective and ATS cannot read graphics.
Where do skills go on a resume?
In a dedicated Skills section and, with proof, in your experience bullets.