Technical skills are the abilities and knowledge needed to complete practical tasks.
Even as unemployment has remained relatively low in recent years, younger professionals have found the job market to be as competitive as ever. Many employers now use automated systems to cull resumes, making it difficult to stand out. Writing resumes requires a delicate balance: If you get too creative with your resume, you risk not making it past the artificial intelligence (AI) screeners, but if you aren't creative enough, the human ultimately reviewing your application may be unable to see the person behind the resume.
How can you make your CV or resume pop in a pile of many? The answer could lie in whether and how you highlight your technical skills—those abilities employers look for in today's digital workplaces. Gone are the days when resumes merely rehash your previous employers and responsibilities. They are better seen as tools for showcasing the skills you have so you can hit the ground running if hired.
But what should you highlight that not only gets your resume past an AI screener but also impresses those making hiring decisions? Should you emphasize your talents in programming languages like Python or focus on your expertise in data analysis tools such as Tableau or Power BI? Perhaps your mastery of project management software like Asana or Trello deserves the spotlight, or your ability to navigate complex CRM systems like Salesforce or HubSpot? In this article, we'll explore some of the most sought-after abilities in various industries and roles. We'll explain how to identify your own technical strengths and highlight them on your resume to help you increase your chances of landing the job you want.
Key Takeaways
- You should highlight relevant technical skills specific to the job you are applying for to show that you have the necessary expertise.
- Include both hard skills, like programming languages and software proficiency, and soft skills, such as problem-solving and communication, to demonstrate well-rounded abilities.
- Use concrete examples and quantify your achievements to demonstrate your aptitudes and the mark you left in earlier roles.
- Keep your technical skills section updated with the latest tools and technologies relevant to your field to show that you're current with industry trends.
![Technical Skills: The abilities and knowledge needed to accomplish complex actions, tasks, and processes.](https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/uDGDPxBbTGCjsHLlgv0HC-IE8NY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/technical-skills.asp-final-2bfdf377f91841919654e2c42b7cb0e2.png)
Investopedia / Joules Garcia
What Technical Skills Are Employees Looking for?
Technical skills are practical and related to the tools and knowledge you'll need to perform a job. These skills include proficiency in programming languages (like Python or Java), software applications (such as Adobe Creative Suite), data analysis tools (like SQL or Tableau), and specialized equipment or machinery. Relevant technical skills are typically learned through formal education, training, or hands-on experience and are essential for roles that demand specialized technical expertise. In decades past, technical skills were merely for would-be technicians, but virtually every resume includes them at this point since every job requires some expertise in the systems a business uses.
General abilities in communication, teamwork, or creativity, while valuable, do not count as technical skills. Instead, these are classified as soft skills. The distinction is important because technical skills reveal your ability to handle the specific technical demands of a job, which can be critical in fields ranging from information technology (IT) and engineering to marketing and finance. Below, we provide a table with some of the key technical skills and complementary sets of expertise for major fields, especially in finance and investing, and go into detail about several fields below that.
The Technical Skills Employers Are Looking For | ||
---|---|---|
Field | Technical Skills | Complementary Expertise |
Asset Management | Portfolio management software, Bloomberg Terminal, risk analysis tools, financial statement analysis, trading platforms | Strong analytical skills, understanding of economic trends, client relationship management |
Corporate Finance | Financial planning & analysis (FP&A), budgeting, capital allocation, treasury management | Business acumen, strategic thinking, cross-department collaboration, critical thinking |
Data Science | Big data technologies (Hadoop, Spark), data analysis (Python, R), statistical modeling, machine learning (TensorFlow, scikit-learn), data visualization (Power BI, Tableau), data wrangling/munging, data visualization (Matplotlib, Seaborn, Plotly, etc.), and SQL/NoSQL. | Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, mathematical aptitude, domain expertise, narration through data |
Digital Marketing | SEO/SEM, social media marketing, email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, HubSpot), web analytics (Google Analytics), content management systems (WordPress), and digital advertising tools (Google Ads, Facebook Ads). | Creativity, analytical thinking, content creation, and customer relationship management |
Engineering | 3D printing, CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks), programming languages (Python, C++), project management tools, simulation software (MATLAB, Simulink) | Problem-solving and critical thinking skills, creativity, ability to work in teams, project management |
Finance | Financial modeling (Excel, VBA), data analysis (SQL, Python), risk management software, accounting software (QuickBooks, SAP), Bloomberg Terminal, and financial forecasting | Analytical thinking, strong quantitative skills, understanding of financial markets and regulations, attention to detail, communication, and strategic planning |
Financial Planning | FP&A, financial planning software (eMoney Advisor, MoneyGuidePro), risk assessment (Riskalyze), tax optimization strategies, understanding of financial products (insurance, investments, retirement accounts), retirement planning, estate planning | Interpersonal skills, financial analysis, client relationship management, knowledge of relevant regulations |
Financial Technology (FinTech) | Programming (Python, Java), Blockchain technology, cybersecurity, API development | Innovative mindset, understanding of user experience (UX), ability to adapt to new technologies |
Graphic Design | Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), web design (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), UX/UI design, prototyping tools (Sketch, Figma), and digital illustration tools | Creativity, communication, time management, and branding |
Healthcare | Electronic health record systems (Epic, Cerner), medical coding (ICD-10, CPT), healthcare data analysis, patient management software, and telehealth technology | Knowledge of healthcare regulations and standards, strong communication skills |
Human Resources | HR software (Workday, SAP SuccessFactors), applicant tracking systems (ATS), payroll systems, data analysis (Excel, HR analytics tools), and employee engagement platforms | Communication, conflict resolution, strategic planning, and organizational skills |
Information Technology (IT) | Programming languages (Python, Java, C++), database management (SQL, NoSQL), cloud computing (AWS, Azure), network security, software development (Agile, DevOps), and system administration | Problem-solving, communication, project management, continuous learning, and attention to detail |
Investment Banking | Financial modeling (Excel, VBA), valuation methods (DCF, precedent transactions), Pitchbook/CapIQ, merger & acquisition (M&A) processes | Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills; industry-specific knowledge |
Marketing | Analytics tools (Google Analytics), content management systems (WordPress), digital marketing platforms (Google Ads, Facebook Ads), SEO/SEM, social media management tools | Creativity, communication skills, data-driven decision-making, understanding of consumer behavior |
Quantitative Finance | Programming (Python, R, C++), algorithmic trading, big data technologies (Hadoop, Spark), data analysis (Python, R), statistical modeling | Advanced mathematics, problem-solving skills, ability to work with large datasets |
Software Engineering | Agile methodologies, DevOps practices, programming languages (Java, Python, C#), software design patterns, testing frameworks, Version control (Git) | Collaboration, problem-solving, attention to detail, ability to learn new technologies |
Web Development | Back-end technologies (Node.js, Django, Ruby on Rails), content management systems (WordPress), front-end technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), web frameworks (React, Angular, Vue) | Design skills, user experience (UX) focus, creativity, problem-solving |
Accounting
Accounting requires specific technical skills that extend beyond basic mathematics:
- Research
- Financial statements preparation
- Accounting software proficiency (QuickBooks, Xero, Sage)
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (SAP, Oracle)
- Spreadsheet software (Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets)
- Data analysis and visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau)
- Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles or international financial reporting standards
Today's accounting professionals rely on a suite of software products, such as Microsoft Excel, for computing and analysis. Therefore, these workers need a sophisticated working knowledge of various software.
Although most accounting processes are automated, accountants still need to be proficient in understanding and preparing financial statements (e.g., balance sheets, income statements, and statements of cash flows). Central to accounting, these documents shed light on the health of a company or person's portfolio.
Research is another important and often overlooked technical skill needed in accounting. Some situations require extensive and independent research. For example, an accountant may need to learn how a new law affects how assets are classified or gather information about a new accounting principle.
Data Science
Data science combines sophisticated mathematics and statistics. Data scientists often work alongside and have overlapping duties and responsibilities with data engineers, data analysts, and machine learning engineers.
Essential technical skills for data science professionals include the following:
- Language programming (e.g., R, Java, Python)
- Data visualization
- Statistical analysis
- Machine learning
In addition to sophisticated technical skills, some data science jobs require professionals to have formal training or academic backgrounds in computer science, engineering, or statistics.
Finance
In finance, sought-after technical skills are more sophisticated than those in traditional business and accounting disciplines. Core financial technical skills include the following:
- Advanced computation
- Quantitative analysis
- Financial modeling and forecasting
- Technical analysis
Technical analysis in this context refers to the ability to read market charts and trends. This requires various mathematical skills to produce price chart analysis and model trends that look at historical information to predict future price movements.
For example, to produce a linear regression model for technical analysis, the market analyst must have the skills and knowledge necessary to properly gather the historical data, perform necessary calculations, and use the output to generate a visual representation of current and historical data.
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) outline the rules and regulations for US accountants, whereas the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are the standard in other nations.
How To List Technical Skills on a Resume
A well-constructed resume will present the qualifications, experience, and skills that make you a qualified candidate. When including technical skills, it's important to list those pertinent to the job for which you're applying. Begin with the technical skills most critical to the role, and then follow with ancillary skills that you'll need in the specific position.
Many employers look for basic technical skills like data analysis, management, accounting, project management, and marketing.
Here are the steps to list technical skills on a resume:
- Create a skills section using an appropriate heading (e.g., Skills, Technical Skills).
- Organize your skills in a list format, with the most relevant skills listed first.
- For readability, group related skills into categories.
- For the required or preferred technical skills, highlight your expertise in the experience section.
Not every technical skill listed in a job requisition is required. However, the more skills you have, the better your chances for selection. The right technical skills show the employer that you have what it takes to perform the job.
How To Improve Your Technical Skills: Education and Training
Here are five steps to help you gain or improve your technical skills:
1. Establish Your Career Goals
Identifying your career goals is critical in determining what technical skills you need. If you're not in your desired career, your goals will likely differ from those who are established in their careers. Professionals who seek to stay in the same career might have goals of securing promotions or enhancing their performance. Examples of goals for those seeking a career change include:
- Pursuing a career in a new field
- Pursuing a new career that promotes better work-life balance
- Seeking different prospects where diversity is promoted and celebrated
Examples of goals for those in their desired field might include:
- Increasing productivity and efficiency
- Pursuing prospects with higher salaries
- Advancing to higher-level positions
Because some fields, such as marketing, are multifaceted, it might be helpful to narrow your career goals to specific roles that you wish to pursue. For example, instead of establishing a goal to pursue a career in marketing, you could set your objective as a career in digital marketing.
2. Research
Once your goals are established, research what you need to do to accomplish them. Begin by searching online for a job with basic and sophisticated technical skills. Job postings can shed light on the required qualifications for different roles. However, you can often glean more from direct interaction. Consider interviewing or shadowing someone in the field you wish to enter. Firsthand accounts from experienced professionals and direct observations can give you more insight than what can be gathered online.
3. Itemize Technical Skills
From your research, you should be prepared to document the skills you need to realize your goals. Consider the specializations, certifications, and education needed to obtain them.
Create categories and list all the associated skills that fall within each. For example, under the Certification category, you could list Lean Six Sigma or Prosci Certified Change Manager. Some skills are more important than others. Consider listing them in order of importance. Spreadsheet programs, such as Microsoft Excel, are great tools to organize your lists.
4. Identify What You Need
From your inventory, reorganize the skills list according to what you have versus what you need. You might be surprised to find that you already possess some of the skills needed.
Identify what you need to do to acquire or enhance technical skills. For example, if a career requires a bachelor's degree in a specific field of study, research what institutions offer that degree program. If seeking a promotion in your current field and a specialization is required, find institutions that offer the specialization.
Before enrolling in an academic program or pursuing professional certifications, consider what alternatives may be accepted in lieu of a specific requirement. For example, some jobs may list a certain degree as a requirement but will accept a degree in a related field or work experience in its place.
5. Develop Technical Skills
Now that you know what is needed, it is time to plan and build. Develop a plan itemizing the skills you are pursuing, how you will obtain them, your timeline for completion, and resources to help you accomplish your pursuit.
Some skills can be acquired on the job, while others must be obtained through a formal program or training. If the latter, enroll in the program that helps you develop the skills needed and accommodates your lifestyle.
Some employers offer training courses to help their employees develop technical skills.
Sometimes, you may have enough critical technical skills to qualify for a job or promotion. Many employers will invest in skill development for the right candidates. Explore what the employer will do to help you develop your skills before undertaking expensive and time-consuming training and academic programs.
How Much of My Work Experience Should I Include on a Resume?
When detailing your job experience on a resume, include positions that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Generally, focus on the last 10 to 15 years of your career. If you have extensive experience, you might summarize earlier roles to keep your resume concise. For each position, list your job title, the company name, location, and dates of employment. Highlight key responsibilities and achievements using bullet points, emphasizing quantifiable results where possible. This approach ensures that your resume remains focused, relevant, and impactful.
How Important Are Professional Affiliations on a Resume?
Professional affiliations are essential as they demonstrate your commitment to your field and engagement with industry networks. Including affiliations on your resume can show potential employers that you are current with industry trends and standards. More valuable than its place on your resume are the contacts you can make by participating in professional development efforts as part of your professional affiliation, such as attending conferences, participating in workshops, and contributing to professional communities. The contacts and knowledge you gain can be invaluable as you seek a foothold in the career you want.
How Do I Write a Professional Summary?
Writing a professional summary involves crafting a concise paragraph that highlights your qualifications, experience, and career objectives. Start by mentioning the job title you want and your years of experience ("Award-winning data scientist with over 10 years of experience..."). Follow with your top skills and notable achievements that are relevant to the position you are applying for. Tailor this section to align with the job description by using specific keywords likely to be searched for by an AI screener. The goal is to provide a snapshot of your professional profile that captures the attention of hiring managers and applicant tracking software.
What's the Difference Between Technical Skills and Technical Analysis?
Technical analysis, when used within the context of trading and financial markets, refers to a special kind of technical skill needed in finance and investing: Predicting the price movements of financial instruments, like stocks, by studying trends in the market's past.
Technical analysts need several technical skills to perform their jobs, such as computer skills to set up complex charts, as well as the technical acumen to find patterns in them. Strictly speaking, technical analysis and technical skills are not synonymous terms, although you might hear them being used interchangeably outside the context of investing.
The Bottom Line
Technical skills are the abilities and knowledge that enable someone to perform certain functions. Workers need these skills to successfully perform their day-to-day job duties. Whether attained through training or education, technical skills are essential for increased productivity and competitive advantage. By staying informed about the most sought-after technical abilities, investing in continuous learning and skill development, and effectively showcasing your expertise, you can position yourself for success.