These 10 Skills on your CV will Improve your Recruitment Chances

In today's competitive job market, it's crucial to equip yourself with the right skills to stand out to potential employers. Your CV serves as the first impression, and showcasing the most important skills can significantly improve your recruitment chances. These skills can be broadly categorised into "hard skills" and "soft skills."

Understanding Hard Skills

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities or knowledge sets that are relevant to a particular job or industry. These skills can be easily quantified and are often acquired through education or hands-on experience. For example, proficiency in programming languages, expertise in data analysis, or the ability to operate specialised machinery like a forklift are considered hard skills. While these skills are crucial and often a primary focus for employers, they are typically tailored to specific roles and industries. For more on tailoring your CV for specific roles, see our blog on How to make your CV Stand Out: 5 Tips to make Employers Notice You First!

The Importance of Soft Skills

On the other hand, soft skills are more about your personality and interpersonal abilities. They are less tangible and harder to quantify, but they are equally, if not more, important to employers. Soft skills are transferable across various roles and industries, making them valuable assets in any CV. Moreover, they often complement hard skills, enhancing your overall profile as a candidate.

Soft skills are often developed through personal experiences, but they can also be honed over time. These skills include how you interact with others, manage your time, solve problems, and adapt to changing environments. If you're unsure which position you want to target with your CV or want to limit the number of hard skills listed, emphasising your soft skills can be a strategic move.

Below, we outline ten essential soft skills that employers look for in candidates. If you possess any of these skills, be sure to highlight them in your CV with specific examples demonstrating your competence.

1. Communication

Effective communication is vital in any role. It encompasses your ability to speak politely, concisely, and professionally, whether over the phone, via email, in person, or in front of an audience. Good communicators can clearly express their ideas, actively listen to others, and engage meaningfully in discussions. This skill is critical for presenting, negotiating, and building relationships with clients and colleagues.

Example in a CV: "Developed and delivered presentations to stakeholders, resulting in a 20% increase in project approvals."

2. Time Management/Organisation

Being able to manage your time effectively and stay organised is a skill that many people admire. It involves balancing multiple tasks or subtasks without difficulty, showcasing your efficiency and reliability. Good time management ensures you meet deadlines, prioritise tasks effectively, and maintain a high level of productivity.

Example in a CV: "Implemented a project management tool that improved team productivity by 30% and ensured timely completion of all deliverables."

3. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking involves analysing information and making informed decisions independently. This skill demonstrates your ability to solve problems, propose innovative solutions, and think strategically. Employers value critical thinkers who can contribute to team discussions and work autonomously when needed.

Example in a CV: "Led a team in identifying and resolving a major bottleneck in our process, reducing turnaround time by 25%."

4. Leadership

Leadership is not limited to those in managerial positions. It involves taking initiative, making decisions, and inspiring others to achieve common goals. Even if you're not applying for a leadership role, showcasing leadership skills indicates potential for growth and promotion. It also shows you can handle responsibilities and resolve issues independently.

Example in a CV: "Mentored junior team members, leading to a 15% improvement in their performance and a more cohesive team environment."

5. Adaptability

In today's fast-paced work environment, adaptability is crucial. It means you can perform well under pressure and adjust to new situations with ease. Adaptability is not about being the best immediately in a new role but being willing to learn and grow in changing circumstances. Employers value adaptable employees who can thrive in dynamic environments.

Example in a CV: "Adapted to new software systems quickly, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency by 20%."

6. Customer Service/Interaction

Customer service skills are relevant beyond retail positions. They demonstrate your ability to interact positively with clients, customers, and colleagues. Good customer service involves empathy, effective communication, and a professional demeanour. It shows you can represent your company well and provide a positive experience for those you interact with.

Example in a CV: "Handled customer enquiries and complaints with a 95% satisfaction rate, enhancing the company's reputation for excellent service."

7. Work Ethic

A strong work ethic is fundamental to any job. It encompasses punctuality, reliability, and dedication to your work. Demonstrating a good work ethic shows employers that you are committed to your role, can be trusted to complete tasks competently, and maintain focus throughout the workday. This skill often complements organisational skills.

Example in a CV: "Consistently met all project deadlines and received commendations for reliability and diligence from supervisors."

8. Creativity

Creativity goes beyond artistic talents. It involves thinking outside the box, innovating, and coming up with unique solutions to problems. Creative individuals can approach challenges from different angles and offer fresh perspectives. This skill can enhance critical thinking and make you a valuable asset to any team.

Example in a CV: "Developed a creative marketing campaign that increased brand awareness by 40% and engagement by 25%."

9. Teamwork

Effective teamwork is essential in collaborative environments. It involves communicating well with team members, showing empathy, and having high emotional intelligence. Being a good team player means understanding diverse perspectives, responding positively to feedback, and contributing to a harmonious work environment.

Example in a CV: "Collaborated with a cross-functional team to successfully launch a new product, resulting in a 30% increase in sales."

10. Patience

Patience is a virtue that is highly valued in the workplace. It involves staying calm and composed, especially in stressful situations. Patience allows you to make thoughtful decisions, avoid mistakes, and maintain professionalism. It is also crucial during the job search process, as rushing into opportunities without proper research can lead to missed chances.

Example in a CV: "Demonstrated patience and resilience in handling high-pressure situations, leading to improved problem resolution and team morale."

Hopefully, this expanded list of soft skills has provided you with valuable insights into how you can enhance your CV. Including these skills, supported by specific examples, can make a significant difference in your job search. If you're seeking new employment, consider reaching out to our consultants for personalised advice and support. They can help you navigate the job market and improve your recruitment chances.

Remember, a well-rounded CV that showcases both hard and soft skills will set you apart from the competition and increase your chances of landing your desired job.