What Skills Should I Put on My CV?
Prioritize job-specific hard skills (e.g., Python, Excel) and transferable soft skills (e.g., leadership, communication). List 6–10 relevant ones; weave examples into experience bullets for proof.
Last updated: 1/4/2026 · Author: MojCV Team · Reviewed by: HR Specialists
Last updated: 1/4/2026
Author: MojCV Team · Reviewed by: HR Specialists
Direct Answer
You should include skills that are directly mentioned in the job advertisement. Focus on specific, practical skills (like "Operating Heavy Machinery" or "Sales") rather than general claims (like "Hardworking"). Only list skills that you can actually prove if you are asked during an interview.
How to Choose the Right Skills
- Read the job ad: Look for the specific tools, programs, or tasks the employer is asking for.
- Prioritize practical skills: List hard skills first—these are measurable things like "Driver’s License (Category C)," "Blueprint Reading," or "Cash Handling."
- Be specific: Instead of just writing "Computers," write the specific software you use, such as "Microsoft Excel" or "SAP."
- Keep it focused: Aim for a list of 8 to 12 relevant skills. Too many skills can make your CV look unfocused.
How to List Your Skills
Customer Service | Inventory Management | Point of Sale (POS) Systems | Team Leadership | Conflict Resolution | First Aid Certified | Microsoft Office
Skills list example
What to Avoid
- Empty clichés: Avoid words like "Team player," "Motivated," or "Guru." These don’t tell the employer anything real about your ability.
- Old skills: Don’t list tools or machines that are no longer used in your industry.
- Lying: Never list a skill you don’t actually have. It will become obvious very quickly once you start the job.
- Irrelevant skills: If you are applying for a construction job, your "Cooking" skills probably don’t need to be there.