Top technical skills for your resume and how to improve them

When searching for a job, standing out from the crowd is crucial. While updating the look of your resumé to highlight your achievements is a great starting point, one of the most vital components is showcasing your technical skills. These skills show hiring managers that you possess the essential capabilities required to succeed in the role. No matter your industry, technical skills can help you get noticed and advance in your career. 

But what are technical skills, and how can you improve them? In this article, we’ll explore key technical skills and provide tips on how to showcase them on your resumé. Whether you’re seeking a promotion or hunting for new opportunities, mastering these skills can help you get there. 

What are technical skills? Understanding these skills 

Technical skills refer to the specific knowledge and abilities needed to perform tasks that are directly related to your job. These skills are typically acquired through education, training, or hands-on experience. When listed on your resumé, technical skills demonstrate your ability to carry out the tasks essential to your role, making you more attractive to employers. 

The difference between technical skills and soft skills 

While technical skills are task-related competencies, soft skills are more about personal attributes. For example: 

• Technical skills: Coding, data analysis, using software 

• Soft skills: Communication, teamwork, problem-solving 

Both types of skills are essential in the workplace, but technical skills often set you apart in competitive job markets. 

Importance of technical skills in different fields 

Regardless of your industry, technical skills can propel your career forward. Here are examples of how technical skills are crucial in various fields: 

• IT & Software Development: Expertise in programming languages like Java and Python, as well as cloud computing and cybersecurity, are essential. 

• Healthcare: Medical software knowledge and data analysis skills are vital in health administration and patient care. 

• Marketing: Digital tools like Google Analytics, SEO, and social media management platforms are now considered fundamental technical skills. 

How to improve your technical skills 

Improving your technical skill set is a great way to boost your competitiveness in the job market. Here’s how you can develop your skills: 

• Identify the skills you need: Research which technical skills are in demand for your job or the job you want to pursue. 

• Create a learning plan: Take online courses, attend workshops, and dedicate time each week to building your skills. 

• Hands-on practice: Try real-world projects, participate in hackathons, coding challenges, or industry-specific projects to gain experience. 

Trending technical skills 

Here are some of the most in-demand technical skills growing across industries: 

• AI and machine learning: Understanding machine learning algorithms and AI applications is essential for IT and data science roles. 

• Data analysis: Tools like Excel, Tableau, and SQL are important for understanding data trends and making informed decisions. 

• Digital marketing tools: SEO, content management systems (CMS), and social media analytics platforms are vital for marketing professionals. 

Industry-specific examples 

To help you focus on the most relevant skills, here’s a breakdown of key technical skills by industry: 

IT & Software Development 

• Programming languages: Java, Python, SQL, JavaScript 

• Cloud computing: AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform 

• Cybersecurity: Penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, encryption methods 

Healthcare 

• Medical software: EMR (Electronic Medical Records) systems, patient management software 

• Data analysis: Using software like SPSS or Tableau to analyse patient data 

• Telemedicine technology: Video conferencing platforms, remote patient monitoring tools 

Marketing 

• SEO: Keyword research, on-page optimisation, backlinking 

• Content management systems: WordPress, Joomla, Drupal 

• Social media management: Hootsuite, Buffer, Sprout Social 

Examples of technical skills with industry relevance 

Here’s a list of the top technical skills that are highly sought after in today’s job market, with descriptions and stats where available: 

• Coding and Programming (Java, Python, SQL): “Coding skills are essential for IT roles and can increase earning potential by 20%.” 

• Data Analysis (Excel, R, Tableau): “Data analysis is highly sought in marketing, finance, and operations to help companies make informed decisions.” 

• Project Management Software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Trello): “Efficient project management tools lead to greater productivity and smoother workflows.” 

• Cloud Computing (AWS, GCP, Azure): “Cloud computing is revolutionising business infrastructure, with a 20% increase in demand for cloud professionals in recent years.” 

• Cybersecurity (ethical hacking, risk assessment): “Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand, with a projected 31% job growth over the next decade.” 

How to measure your technical skills 

To ensure your skills are improving, it’s important to track your progress: 

• Online platforms: Use platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or Udemy to take courses and test your knowledge. 

• Certifications: Earning certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Google Analytics can enhance your credibility. 

• Hands-on projects: Apply your skills in real-world settings, whether through freelance work, side projects, or contributing to open-source initiatives. 

Showcasing technical skills on your resumé 

When listing technical skills on your resumé, be clear and specific. Create a separate section dedicated to technical skills and categorise them by relevance to the job you’re applying for. Use industry-specific language to make your skills stand out. 

Example: 

Technical Skills: 

• Programming Languages: Python, Java, SQL 

• Data Analysis: Excel, Tableau, Google Analytics 

• Cloud Computing: AWS, Microsoft Azure 

• Project Management: Jira, Trello, Asana 

Common misconceptions about technical skills 

There are several myths surrounding technical skills: 

• Myth 1: Technical skills are only for tech jobs. Technical skills are relevant in almost every field today, including digital marketing, healthcare, and even education. 

• Myth 2: Technical skills become irrelevant once you reach a senior position. Your technical expertise should evolve to match new responsibilities as you progress in your career. 

• Myth 3: You can only learn technical skills through formal education. You can acquire technical skills through online courses, on-the-job training, or self-study. Continuous learning is key. 

Updating your resumé: Technical skills to include 

Here’s a selection of technical skills that can make your resumé stand out in the eyes of recruiters: 

Software Development 

• Programming languages: Java, Python, SQL 

• Agile software development 

• Version control: Git, SVN 

• Continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) 

Data Science 

• Statistical analysis: R, SAS 

• Machine learning: TensorFlow, Scikit-learn 

• Data visualisation: Tableau, Power BI 

Web Development 

• HTML, CSS, JavaScript 

• Frameworks: React, Angular, Vue.js 

• Responsive web design 

Cybersecurity 

• Penetration testing 

• Vulnerability management 

• Encryption methods 

By showcasing these technical skills, you can demonstrate to potential employers that you have the expertise to excel in your field. 

FAQs 

What are the most in-demand technical skills? 

The most in-demand technical skills can vary by industry, but skills related to software development, data analysis, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are highly sought after. 

Can technical skills be learned online? 

Yes, many online platforms offer courses, tutorials, and certifications in various technical skills. Industry-relevant courses can help you learn or improve your technical skills for your field. 

How do I identify which technical skills are important for my field? 

Research job listings for roles you’re interested in, read industry-specific publications, and network with professionals in your field. You can also talk to colleagues to learn about their own skills. 

How can I improve my technical skills without spending a lot of money? 

Find free online resources, practice skills through personal projects, join online forums, or seek internships or volunteer opportunities to gain practical experience. Mentorship from colleagues can also be a great resource. 

Are technical skills more important than soft skills? 

Both technical and soft skills are important, with the balance depending on the role and industry. Technical skills are crucial for performing tasks, while soft skills like communication and teamwork are essential for collaborating effectively. 

Can I still get a job without technical skills? 

While technical skills are important, not all roles require them. There are industries where soft skills are more valued, but having some basic technical skills can boost your employability and open up more opportunities.