When you reach the “Skills” section of your resume, it is crucial to understand the difference between Hard Skills and Soft Skills.
Hard Skills (What you can do) These are technical, measurable abilities you have learned through education or hands-on experience.
- Examples: Python programming, Graphic Design, Accounting, Advanced Spanish, SEO, Excel.
- ATS Importance: They are vital. ATS bots scan your resume looking for these exact keywords. They should make up about 80% of your skills list.
Soft Skills (How you work) These are your interpersonal attributes, work habits, and personality traits.
- Examples: Leadership, Teamwork, Conflict resolution, Effective communication, Adaptability.
- Human Importance: An ATS will rarely reject you for not listing “Proactive,” but a human recruiter will look for these qualities during the interview.
Top Tip: Don’t make an endless list of soft skills. Instead of just writing “Leadership” in your skills section, prove it in your work experience: “Led a cross-functional team of 5 to deliver the project ahead of deadline.” This validates your soft skill with real-world facts.