Today, most job sectors value tech skills, including roles in IT, finance, marketing, and even creative fields. Highlighting these skills on your resume shows employers you’re capable of succeeding in the position.
This article will cover:
- How to tailor your resume to highlight the most relevant skills
- How to present your skills in the skills section, experience, and education
- Tips for using our AI-powered resume builder to quickly create a standout resume
Use ResumeCoach’s AI skills generator to effectively demonstrate your skills and increase your chances of landing your dream role!
What Are Technical Skills?
A technical skill is an ability to perform a specific task which requires specialist knowledge. One example of a technical skill is programming: it is an ability which you have to learn and develop.
Technical skills are also known as “hard skills” and you normally learn them either on-the-job or they involve training.
Examples of technical skills in demand
Technical skills are in demand across every industry. Here are a few examples of the most sought-after skills:
- Programming: Languages like Python, Java, and C++
- Data Analysis: Tools like SQL, R, Tableau
- Project Management: Methodologies like Agile, Scrum
- Web Design: Tools like Adobe XD, HTML, CSS
- Cloud Computing: Platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, Azure
- Cybersecurity: Skills like network security, penetration testing
- Database Management: Technologies like MySQL, Oracle
Tech Skills vs. Technical Skills
The terms “tech skills” and “technical skills” are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings.
Tech skills generally refer to abilities related to digital technology, especially those that involve information technology (IT), such as coding, software development, data analysis, or IT troubleshooting.
These skills are essential for working with computers, software, networks, and digital platforms.
Technical skills, on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses any specialized knowledge or expertise required to perform specific tasks or jobs in various fields.
This can include things like machinery operation, engineering, or even certain soft skills like project management.
While tech skills are a subset of technical skills, technical skills can also extend beyond the digital and IT-related areas.
Why Are Technical Skills Important?
Having up-to-date technical skills not only demonstrates your expertise but also shows that you’re prepared to contribute to the latest advancements in the industry.
In particular, skills in Data Analysis, Database Management, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, and Technical Support were the top 5 skills required in 2024.
In fact, the World Economic Forum research indicates that by 2027, 44% of workers’ core skills will be disrupted because technology is advancing faster than companies can design and scale their training programs.
This highlights the importance of continually developing your technical skills to keep up with the fast-changing job market. Here are a few more reasons why improving your technical skills is essential:
They demonstrate your expertise
Employers value candidates who can quickly contribute to projects, solve complex problems, and deliver results.
They show your adaptability
With technology changing fast, having up-to-date technical skills demonstrates that you are always learning and can quickly adapt to new challenges.
They increase productivity
Proficiency in specific tasks or tools allows you to work more efficiently and effectively.
They enable innovation
With the right technical skills, you can bring fresh ideas, strategies, and improvements to help your organization grow and stay ahead.
How To Include Technical Skills on Your Resume
Listing your technical skills alone is usually not enough. Where you place your skills and the examples you provide throughout your resume can make all the difference. To truly stand out, it’s important to demonstrate your abilities in a way that aligns with the job you’re applying for.
The quickest way to update your resume is by using a resume builder, which allows you to make quick edits. Additionally, our templates help you highlight your technical skills in a clean, organized, and eye-catching way.
Follow these key strategies to effectively present your resume:
Identify the required technical skills
The first thing to do is to carefully read through each job description and to identify the necessary technical skills. Use the keywords in the job posting to help you.
It is important to know exactly which skills the employer is looking for so you know what to focus on when tailoring your resume. The next step is to write a list of your strengths and match them to the needs of the job.
Work the technical skills into your resume
There are multiple sections of your resume where you can emphasize technical skills. You should try to work the different technical skills you’ve used into your:
You can also list any education and certifications. Check out the following examples of how to include them below:
Professional experience section
Software Developer | XYZ Tech Solutions | June 2021 – Present
- Developed a Python script that automated client data entry, reducing processing time by 40%.
- Led a web development project using React and JavaScript, launching a responsive website that increased user engagement by 30%.
Data Analyst | ABC Corporation | January 2019 – May 2021
- Used Excel to analyze and interpret sales data, identifying trends that led to a 15% increase in quarterly sales.
- Built interactive dashboards in Tableau, improving report generation time by 25%.
Education section
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
XYZ University | Graduated May 2020
- Completed a Data Analysis course using R and Tableau, producing an interactive dashboard that reduced reporting time by 20%.
Certifications
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect
- CompTIA A+ Certification
Be concise and don’t exaggerate
The challenge when writing a resume is to include as many selling points as possible in as little space as possible.
Whether you produce a one-page resume or two-page document to do this, it’s essential to include your technical skills and avoid wordy descriptions to help employers quickly find the information they’re looking for.
Technical Skills by Job Title
When preparing your resume, remember to tailor the technical skills to the job you’re applying for. Here’s a breakdown of technical skills that are highly valued for various roles:
Software developer
- Programming Languages: Java, Python, C++, JavaScript
- Frameworks: React, Angular, Django
- Database Management: MySQL, MongoDB
- Version Control: Git, SVN
Data analyst
- Data Analysis: SQL, R, Excel
- Data Visualization: Tableau, Power BI
- Statistical Analysis: SPSS, SAS
- Programming: Python, Pandas
Web designer
- Front-End Development: HTML, CSS, JavaScript
- Responsive Design: Bootstrap, Foundation
- Graphic Design: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator
- UX/UI Principles: Wireframing, Usability Testing
Cybersecurity analyst
- Security Frameworks: NIST, ISO 27001
- Vulnerability Tools: Nessus, Metasploit
- Network Security: IDS/IPS, SIEM
- Incident Response: Forensic Analysis, Threat Hunting
UX/UI Designer
- UI Design Tools: Adobe XD, Sketch
- Prototyping: InVision, Figma
- User Research: Interviews, Usability Testing
- Interaction Design: Information Architecture
How To Keep Your Technical Skills Up-To-Date
As technology evolves, staying on top of your technical skills proficiency is important. This is especially crucial in fields like IT, data science, and engineering, where new tools and techniques emerge rapidly.
To stay competitive, invest in courses, certifications, and training that enhance your current abilities. Online platforms offer courses in a wide range of technical skills to help you stay at the forefront of your industry.
Key takeaways
- Tailor your resume to highlight the technical skills that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for.
- Integrate technical skills into the job descriptions in your professional experience section.
- Don’t exaggerate, be honest about your abilities and demonstrate them with real examples.
- Continue improving your technical skills to remain competitive in the job market.
By following our tips, you can present yourself as a candidate with the right technical skills, giving you a significant advantage in the job application process.
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