How to list Soft Skills on your Resume + Samples

 

Welcome clever reader,

   Since last week, theInternsGuide has been chatty about Soft Skills.

Here are some of what we’ve covered:

• What Soft Skills are?
• If or not they're learnable.
• Some examples of Soft Skills
• Their importance and lots more. Feel free to refer to any of our previous posts.

We’ve established all this. But that's not really what you seek, is it? 

Don’t worry, this is the MOTHER-LOAD. 

This article will scratch that itch you’ve been nursing since last week. 

Today, we’ll walk you through how to list these Skills on your resume.

You’ve discovered they are learnable, you’ve taken a bunch of courses, and you’ve been certified. 

I can guess what’s running through your mind:

• But I'm still seeking employment- who would believe I've acquired these skills?
• What about me? I've been working in one sector for over a decade, will my new employer put their faith in me?
• How bout me seeking a promotion at work? I don't think I'll be taken seriously with the certifications I've attained?

The below steps are achievable by everyone, no matter your career or employment status.

What is a Resume?

A resume is a document that showcases an individual's educational and work experiences, achievements, and skills. While technical or hard skills are critical in job searches, soft skills play an essential role in securing employment and career success.

Employers today are not only looking for job-specific expertise but also for individuals who possess qualities that make them great team players, employees and ensure workplace success.

Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are highly sought after by employers. Therefore, it is crucial to list your soft skills on your resume. 

Let’s discuss how to list soft skills on your resume and provide examples of resume samples.

• Identify the Soft Skills relevant to the job: Before listing your soft skills on your resume, it is crucial to identify the skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Research the job description and look for keywords that relate to soft skills. For example, if the job requires excellent communication skills, add "excellent communication skills" to your resume. Make a list of all the relevant soft skills and tailor your resume to the job description.

• Use action-oriented words: When listing your soft skills, it is essential to use action-oriented words. For example, instead of saying "good communication skills," say "effectively communicate with team members and clients." This shows that you are not just claiming to have the skill, but you have evidence to support it.

• Use examples to demonstrate Soft Skills: Using examples to demonstrate your soft skills can add credibility to your resume. 
  For instance, instead of just stating that you have excellent leadership skills, provide an example of how you led a team to complete a project. This will showcase your leadership skills and provide the hiring manager with tangible evidence of your abilities.

• Use specific Soft Skills in the right section: There are specific sections in a resume where you can list your soft skills. F
  or example, the summary section is an excellent place to list your top soft skills. The skills section is also an appropriate place to list your soft skills. You can also include soft skills in your work experience section, by showcasing how you used your skills to achieve success in your previous roles.

Here are some examples of how to list Soft Skills on your Resume:

Example One:

Summary:

Highly motivated and enthusiastic individual with excellent communication skills, strong leadership abilities, and a proven track record of meeting deadlines.

Skills:

• Communication skills: effectively communicates with team members and clients to achieve project goals.
• Leadership skills: successfully led a team of ten people to complete projects ahead of schedule.
• Time management skills: the ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.

Example Two:

Summary:

A highly adaptable and flexible individual with exceptional problem-solving skills, able to work well in a team, and adjust to new situations with ease.

Skills:

• Problem-solving skills: able to analyze complex problems and develop effective solutions.
• Teamwork: works collaboratively with team members to achieve project goals
• Adaptability: can easily adjust to new situations and environments.

Example Three:

Work Experience:

Marketing Manager, ABC Company, 2018-2022

• Developed and executes marketing strategies that increased revenue by 25%.
• Managed a team of five people and effectively delegated tasks to ensure the projects' success.
• Demonstrated excellent communication skills by presenting marketing plans to senior management clients.

Skills:

• Leadership skills: effectively managed a team of five people to complete projects successfully.
• Communication skills: presented marketing plans to senior management and clients.
• Strategic thinking: developed and executed strategies that increased revenue by 25%.

Outro

Soft skills are critical in securing employment. It is essential to identify the relevant soft skills, use action-oriented words and use examples to demonstrate your skills and list and helps you gain career success.

written by CINNAMON