← Back to Resources

11 Top Skills to List on your Resume

Listing the right skills on your resume helps recruiters and ATS see your fit. Here are 11 top skills to consider, plus how to pick and list them.

  1. Communication: Written and verbal. Valued in almost every role.
  2. Leadership: Leading projects or people. Show with bullets.
  3. Problem-solving: Analyzing and resolving issues. Valued across roles.
  4. Teamwork/Collaboration: Working with others. Show with examples.
  5. Project Management: Planning, execution, delivery. Include tools if relevant.
  6. Microsoft Office/Google Workspace: Common and often required. Specify Excel, etc., if the job needs it.
  7. Data Analysis: Excel, SQL, or other tools. Quantify where possible.
  8. Customer Service: Client or user focus. Show with outcomes.
  9. Adaptability: Handling change. Show with examples.
  10. Attention to Detail: Accuracy and quality. Show with outcomes.
  11. Technical skills (role-specific): Programming, CRM, design tools, etc. List what matches the job.

Pick skills that match the job description and that you can speak to in an interview. Back them up in your experience bullets.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What skills should I put on my resume?
    List skills that match the job description: communication, leadership, problem-solving, and role-specific technical skills. List only what you can discuss.
  • How many skills should I list on my resume?
    Usually 5–15 relevant skills. Focus on what matches the job. Do not list skills you cannot speak to.
  • Should I list soft skills on my resume?
    Yes. List 3–5 soft skills that match the job (e.g., communication, leadership) and back them up in your experience bullets.
  • Where do skills go on a resume?
    In a dedicated Skills section, usually after the summary and before or after experience. Group by category if you have many.