200+ Key skills for CVs: Top hard & soft skills (UK)

Skills play a crucial role on a CV. They show employers that you have the ability to succeed in the role and can also ensure that you rank highly on applicant tracking systems (ATS).

However, in order to pique the hiring manager’s interest and get past any electronic gatekeepers, you’ll need to select the right skills for your CV. Additionally, you’ll need to present them in the right place so they get noticed.

In this article, we’ll explore how to create the perfect blend of key skills for a CV, including the difference between hard and soft skills, the best skills to mention, 200+ examples of skills for various professions, and CV skills FAQs to answer all of your questions.

Ready to optimise the skills on your CV? Jump to our example skills section!

Hard skills vs. soft skills

Employers are typically looking for an ideal blend of hard skills and soft skills when making hiring decisions.

Hard skills are specific to a particular job or industry. These abilities are secured through your formal education, on-the-job experience, training programs, certifications, or even hobbies. Examples of hard skills could include proficiency in specific software, machinery, or foreign languages.

On the other hand, soft skills are qualities that apply across fields and roles. Often called social skills, these can include communication, customer service, or problem solving. Since these can be harder to develop, employers value them just as highly (if not more) than hard skills.

When looking for a new job, it’s crucial to showcase how your hard and soft skills blend together to make you the perfect candidate. For example, if you’re a software engineer with expertise in coding and strong problem-solving skills, you’ll be able to add value by quickly resolving code issues. Demonstrate these skills in action when writing your CV, and make sure to mention them during any interviews too.

Here are some examples of hard skills and soft skills:

Good skills for CVs

Emphasising your strongest skills across your CV is crucial, but this should be balanced with ensuring that they are relevant and in-demand. Here are some examples of good skills for your CV that apply across many job roles and industries:

Adaptability

Individuals who possess this skill can easily navigate unfamiliar environments and successfully deal with any new challenges. This soft skill can be “gold” to a potential employer.

Communication

Effective communication is a vital element of your business skill set. Sharing your ideas and information in a clear and concise way, actively listening to others, and facilitating productive conversations will lead to greater success as you interact positively at all levels.

Technical skills

Technology permeates all areas of our lives and the business world. Understanding and being able to effectively use technology is a huge asset, whether you work in the tech field or not. This could include showcasing skills in product suites like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, project management software like Asana and Monday.com, generative AI tools, HTML, or CSS.

Problem solving

The ability to quickly identify, analyse, and resolve specific challenges is one skill that ranks extremely highly with employers. To position yourself as a strong problem solver, focus on highlighting your critical thinking, conceptual skills, and analytical approach in your CV.

Teamwork

Most jobs involve some aspect of teamwork, so it’s understandable why this soft skill is in demand. Provide specific examples of successful teamwork with focus on the qualities of empathy, communication, active listening, and self-awareness when describing how well you work with others in your CV and cover letter.

CV skills for various professions

Looking for some inspiration on good skills for your CV? Here are our top picks according to specific job types and industries:

Healthcare sector CV skills

Need inspiration for your healthcare CV? Check out our related CVs: nurse CV example, care assistant CV example, medical CV example, paramedic CV example, and doctor CV example.

Technology sector CV skills

Here are some CV examples to help you get started: IT CV example, programmer CV example, computer science CV example, front end developer CV example, and IT support CV example.

Education sector CV skills

Create the perfect education or teaching CV in minutes with our CV examples: teacher CV example, lecturer CV example, tutor CV example, and education CV example.

Retail and customer service sector CV skills

Check out our related CV examples: retail CV example, shop assistant CV example, retail manager CV example, customer service CV example, and customer service manager CV example.

Construction and trades sector CV skills

Review our relatable CV examples: construction CV example, construction manager CV example, quantity surveyor CV example, carpenter CV example, and plumber CV example.

Transportation and logistics sector CV skills

Check out our transport and logistics CV examples: transport and logistics CV example, warehouse operative CV example, driver CV example, and cabin crew CV example.

Office and administrative support sector CV skills

Need more inspiration for your skills section? Check out our related CVs: administrative assistant CV example, office administrator CV example, and office manager CV example. 

Hospitality and food service sector CV skills

Open new doors with a great hospitality CV: hospitality CV example, waiter CV example, waitress CV example, chef CV example, and event manager CV example.

Accounting & finance sector CV skills

Review our job-winning accounting and finance CV examples: accountant CV example, assistant accountant CV example, finance CV example, and banking CV example.

Security and protective services sector CV skills

Here are some CV examples to give you a little inspiration: security guard CV example, cybersecurity CV example, and police CV example.

Student CV skills

Check out our student CV examples: student CV example, internship CV example, graduate CV example, and school leaver CV example.

How to find relevant skills to list in your CV

Listing the right skills in the right way across your CV will ensure that you don’t miss out on any exciting job opportunities. Here are some strategies to help you achieve that goal:

Step 1#: Review the job description

When listing skills for your CV, they need to be relevant to the specific role that you are applying for in order to capture the hiring manager’s attention. The best way to find these skills is to review the job description. Take note of the key skills required for the job, especially those that are repeated or emphasised as important. 

For example, here is a job description for a marketing assistant:

In this example, the best skills or keywords for your CV might include:

• Administrative assistance
• Advertising campaigns
• Digital marketing
• Customer retention
• Communication skills
• Adobe InDesign

Sprinkling these skills across your CV is likely to pique the hiring manager’s interest. Most recruiters will have a checklist of must-have skills in mind as they review incoming CVs. If you tick most or all of those boxes, your application is more likely to be successful.

Step 2#: Choose a CV format that outlines your skills

Next, it’s time to choose the best CV format to showcase your skills. If you’re a recent graduate or seeking a career change, the functional (skills-based) format is a good option. This format has a heavier focus on skills at the start of your CV, with sections detailing these key skills in action. Any professional experience is simply listed below.

Here’s an example of skills outlined on a functional CV:

However, if you have significant experience in your chosen field, you’ll need a more traditional CV format (e.g., reverse-chronological). In this format, you can include a short, standalone section that highlights specific skills and qualifications.

Don’t forget to weave your skills throughout the rest of your CV, whichever format you choose. Add them to your professional summary, work experience, and education sections. For example, if you’re a talented negotiator, your work experience section could say, “Leveraged keen negotiation skills to secure a 15% savings on annual equipment spend.”

Our CV Builder is a powerful tool that can help you quickly and easily incorporate your skills across your CV. Use this to present your skills in the best possible light!

Step 3#: Use a skills section

Creating a dedicated skills section in your CV will ensure the hiring manager and applicant tracking systems (ATS) can easily find your top-level skills and identify you as a suitably qualified candidate.

Place your skills section prominently on the first page of your CV, keeping to six or seven key skills for maximum impact. Aim to be as specific as possible. For example, list “verbal and written communication” rather than simply “communication.” Sort your skills according to their relevance with the job opening, listing the most important skills first, followed by any complimentary skills.

Employers will also be keen to know your level of expertise for these hard (industry-specific) skills. Adding proficiency levels to your skills section is a great way to convey this information. Our CV Builder can make this process a breeze by providing a wide range of key skills for your CV to choose from, with proficiency levels you can adjust. 

Step 4#: Additional parts of the job search

Finally, allow your skills to shine across other elements of your job search. Reference and expand on these qualifications and attributes in your cover letter and during any interviews to reinforce your suitability for the job opening.

If you have a LinkedIn profile, make sure this accurately captures your skills, as this will boost your chances of getting noticed by recruiters. Stick to around 10 to 15 hard and soft skills to avoid overwhelming recruiters with the dreaded “skill overload.” You can also build your credibility by politely asking your LinkedIn network for skill endorsements.

How to gain skills you don't yet have

If you’re considering a new career path or looking to progress in your career, but lack the required skills, don’t despair. The good news is that there are plenty of ways you can add to your skill set. 

Here are some suggestions:

• Complete a course or training programme. Certain skills, such as programming languages, could be learned via self study. If you’re looking to develop a skill that requires more hands-on instruction, enroll in a course at a local college or online learning platform.
• Secure a mentor. A professional mentor can help you gain insights and upskill via mentorship or job shadowing. Reach out to your existing personal or professional networks to find someone you respect who has links to your target role or industry.
• Read books and articles. Staying updated on industry-related news or reading educational materials can improve your skills and understanding of your chosen industry.

However, if you have zero work experience, this can feel like an impossible dilemma. You need experience to gain skills, but without skills, you can’t secure experience. It’s time to assess yourself honestly. 

You likely have a wealth of soft skills to include on your CV that you don’t even realise you have. Start by brainstorming a master list of your skills and attributes.

Try answering these questions:

• Are you a member of an organised club? Do you have a specific role?
• Do you participate in sports? Do you play on a team or act as captain?
• Have you worked on any group projects?
• Do you have a part-time job or internship?
• What are your hobbies and interests?
• Have you completed any volunteer or community work?

These are the types of activities that you can refer to when it comes to outlining key skills for your CV such as communication, problem solving, teamwork, leadership, and much more.

How to identify skill gaps

Skills can strengthen your performance in the workplace and position you for career growth. For this reason, it’s a good idea to focus on closing the skills gap between your existing abilities and what you still need to learn. 

Here are four steps you can take to identify any skill gaps:

1. Define your professional goals. Establishing clearly defined goals will help you to narrow down any skill gaps. A brainstorming session is a great way to identify your key strengths and any weaknesses.
2. Secure feedback. Don’t hesitate to ask managers, colleagues, clients, coaches, trusted friends, and family for their take on your skills. They may come up with something you hadn’t considered before and help you explore development areas.
3. Research in-demand skills. According to research by the World Economic Forum, 39 percent of key skills in the job market will change by 2030, with technological skills projected to grow in importance more rapidly than others. It’s therefore vital to develop future-ready skills like AI and big data, networks, cybersecurity, and technological literacy.
4. Create a skill development plan. Combine your analysis and feedback to create a skill development plan to enhance your capabilities. Ask your manager about any internal resources or upcoming training, and check out reputable online courses (e.g., Coursera, LinkedIn) to fill in any skill gaps.

Skills for CV FAQs

How many skills should I list on my CV?

Don’t overdo skills on your CV. Listing too many skills can make your CV look cluttered and confusing. While there is no specific number you should include on your CV, between 5 and 10 is often enough, including both hard and soft skills.

What are some special skills I can list?

Special skills for your CV could include knowledge of specific data analysis, project management tools, fluency in one or more languages, technical writing skills, artificial intelligence (AI), big data, or machine learning.

Can I include hobbies as skills on my CV?

Yes! If your hobbies and interests are relevant to your career then including them will show your passion and enthusiasm for your chosen path. This is a good approach if you have limited work experience and are using a functional CV format. For example, creating your own blog and attracting 3,000+ followers would be good to highlight for a career as a content writer.

What are the most important skills in 2025?

According to an article by Forbes, the skills that employers rank high in importance span three categories: digital and technical, cognitive, and interpersonal skills. These in-demand skills include:

1. Data analysis and project management
2. AI and machine learning
3. Software engineering and IT infrastructure
4. Critical and strategic thinking
5. Problem solving
6. Adaptability and agility
7. Collaboration and teamwork
8. Communication skills

How can I make my skills stand out on my CV?

Tailor your CV to each job opportunity and include skills that are pertinent to each role to ensure that you stand out to the hiring manager. 

Aim to be as specific as possible with your skills too. Generic, run-of-the-mill skills won’t ignite much interest. For example, instead of merely listing “technical skills,” refer to the specific technology relevant to the job description.

How can I avoid common mistakes when listing skills on a CV?

Here are some “dos and don’ts” to bear in mind when considering skills for your CV: