100+ Hard Skills To Boost Your Resume [Technical Skills, Examples, & More]

Hard skills are the technical skills and specialized knowledge necessary for performing specific tasks. Unlike soft skills (which are more about personality traits), hard skills are usually teachable and measurable.

But what's the most strategic way to make sure they stand out on your resume? And how do you know the best hard skills for a resume that'll make you the ideal candidate for a job?

Struggling to add the right hard skills to your resume? Sign up for Teal today.

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What are hard skills?

Hard skills refer to practical abilities. They're directly linked to your capacity to perform a specific job or task. These skills are typically concrete and measurable. And you can acquire them through education, training, certifications, or on-the-job experience.

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When it comes to required skills for a role, the specific hard skills are often described in detail in the job description.

Hard skills can encompass a variety of areas depending on your industry and role. For instance, some hard skills examples could be:

• Python programming language skills
• Statistical data analysis
• CNC machine operation
• Quickbooks accounting software

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What sets these skills apart is that they're both teachable and testable, often acquired through formal education, online courses, training programs, and similar, more structured, structured learning. They're also objective; you either have a specific skill or you don't (and unlike soft skills, your level of expertise can be measured).

But understanding hard skills goes beyond recognizing them.

Hard skills are continuously evolving, with new ones emerging in response to technological advancements (hello, AI!) and changing industry demands. Most industries are adopting new technologies, methodologies, and tools. And because of this, continuous learning and "upskilling" to acquire and update hard skills is now an important part of professional growth.

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How do hard skills differ from soft skills?

Traditionally, skills are categorized into two types: hard and soft skills. Resume soft skills highlight more abstract or interpersonal skills—like how well you work with others, while hard skills are more tangible, quantifiable, and directly related to job functions or tasks.

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Soft skills often include abilities like:

• Communication skills
• Leadership
• Emotional intelligence (EQ)
• Problem-solving skills
• Adaptability

As companies (especially across industries like tech, industrial, and engineering) rely more and more on automation and technology, the importance of more human-centered soft skills is often emphasized similarly to hard skills. 

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However different they may be, these two types of skills are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they're complementary. Most roles or positions require a blend of soft and hard skills for employees to succeed. 

For example, data analysis requires not only statistical knowledge but also critical thinking and storytelling to transform raw data into actionable insights. Similarly, the rise of remote work emphasizes the need for self-management and effective online communication (think platforms like Zoom and Slack), illustrating the codependence of technical hard skills and soft skills.

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What are technical skills?

Technical skills are hard skills. They are abilities learned through training or education that apply to specific work, particularly in fields like IT, engineering, or science. These skills often require the use of complex tools and technologies

List of technical skills

• Adobe Creative Suite
• Application Development
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• AutoCAD
• Big Data Management
• Blockchain
• C++
• CAD Software
• Coding
• Computational Design
• Computer Programming
• CSS
• Cybersecurity Analysis
• Database Management
• DevOps
• HTML
• Information Security
• IoT (Internet of Things)
• Java
• MATLAB
• Network Structure & Design
• Python
• R Programming
• Ruby on Rails
• SAS
• Statistical Analysis System (SAS)
• UX Design
• Web Design
• Web Development
• XML

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Are technical skills also hard skills?

Technical skills fall under the category of hard skills. These are specific abilities acquired through education or training (like coding, data analysis, and using specialized software). Emphasizing these skills on your resume can highlight your technical expertise, demonstrating your capability to handle job-specific tasks and making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

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How to learn hard skills

Learning hard skills is a strategic investment in your career.

These skills can be acquired through various means, but the key is to find the learning method that best fits your career goals and current circumstances.

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On-the-job training

One of the most effective ways to learn hard skills is through on-the-job training. Gaining hands-on experience allows you to apply what you learn in real-world scenarios—deepening your understanding and proficiency.

Many employers offer training programs or mentorship opportunities to help you develop these skills. Whether it's tackling new software or learning advanced technical procedures, the experience you gain on the job is a great way to learn hard skills.

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Certifications for hard skills

Certifications strengthen your career. They're a tangible testament to your skillset, expertise, and dedication to continuous learning.

Different industries value various certifications that highlight diverse hard skills, boosting your credibility and opening up new career opportunities. Consider pursuing certifications in areas relevant to your field, such as project management, IT, or specialized software, to enhance your skill set and marketability.

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Best hard skills to put on a resume

Showcasing the right hard skills on your resume can make a significant difference in catching the eye of potential employers.

These skills highlight your technical abilities and demonstrate your capability to perform specific job functions. Here are some of the best hard skills to consider adding to your resume.

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Resume hard skills

If you're worried you don’t have very specific technical skills that measure up to a particular role, don't get discouraged just yet. There are some general hard skills for your resume that still pack a punch.  

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Project Management Skills: These skills are about overseeing projects to ensure they're completed on time and within budget. Proficiency in project management software like MS Project, JIRA, or Asana can be a definite plus.

Foreign Language Proficiency: In an increasingly globalized (and remote!) world, being multilingual can be a significant advantage, opening up opportunities in international business and communication.

Digital Marketing: This encompasses SEO, content marketing, social media marketing, and PPC advertising. A deep understanding of tools like Google Analytics, Facebook Ads Manager, or SEMrush is also a great companion to this skill.

Salesforce Proficiency: Salesforce is a leading customer relationship management (CRM) tool. Expertise in this platform can be a significant advantage, particularly in sales and marketing roles. (Other CRM platforms include Hubspot, Zendesk, ClickUp, and Active Campaign). 

Data Analysis: In today's era of big data, the ability to interpret and use information to make informed business decisions is invaluable. Including any knowledge of data analytics tools such as SQL, Python, and Tableau is also beneficial. 

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Resume technical skills 

Software Development: This hard skill involves designing, implementing, and testing software (and indicates strong computer skills). Knowledge of languages like Java, Python, or C++ and an understanding of software development methodologies can make you a valuable asset across various industries.

Machine Learning/AI: With businesses increasingly leveraging AI and ML for decision-making and operations, having this skill can place you on a short list of candidates with hard skills in tech innovation.

Technical Writing: The ability to communicate complex information in an easy-to-understand way is critical in many fields. Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and MadCap Flare could increase your appeal to recruiters and hiring managers.

Cloud Computing: As more businesses move to the cloud, knowledge of cloud service platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud can help boost your prospects.

Cybersecurity: With cyber threats on the rise, knowing how to protect and recover systems, networks, and data from cyber-attacks is crucial. Command of tools like Nessus, Wireshark, or Metasploit can strengthen your credentials.

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Job-specific hard skills examples

Job-specific hard skills are the specialized abilities and knowledge needed to perform particular tasks in a specific job.

For example, software engineers may need proficiency in Python or Java, while marketing managers might need different, specific marketing skills like SEO or Google Analytics.

The TLDR? Job-specific skills are important because they connect your past experiences directly to the job you're applying for, showing hiring managers that you have what they're looking for.

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Technical skills examples - software engineer

When it comes to software engineering, having the right technical skills is crucial. The following are a few of the top technical skills for software engineers that can help you excel in this field

List of technical skills

• Algorithm Design
• Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)
• C#
• Database Design
• Debugging
• Docker
• Git
• JavaScript
• Mobile Application Development
• Perl
• Quality Assurance (QA)
• Scala
• Scripting Languages
• Swift
• Version Control Systems (VCS)

Find more software engineer resume skills.

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Technical skills examples - data analyst

For data analysts, having the right technical skills is key to analyzing and interpreting complex data sets. The following are a few of the top technical skills:

List of technical skills

• Advanced Excel
• Apache Hadoop
• Data Mining
• Data Visualization
• Deep Learning
• PowerBI
• Predictive Analytics
• Regression Analysis
• Tableau
• TensorFlow

Explore over a dozen data analyst resumes to help create a list of hard skills for your resume.

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Technical skills examples - IT manager

IT managers need a diverse set of technical skills to oversee and maintain an organization's technology infrastructure effectively. Here are a few of the top IT technical skills:

List of technical skills

• Active Directory
• Cloud Security
• Ethical Hacking
• Linux
• Malware Analysis
• Network Security
• Risk Management
• Server Administration
• System Administration
• Virtualization

Review the skill sections of these IT analyst resumes.

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Examples of hard skills - web designer

Web designers need a combination of hard and technical skills to create engaging and effective websites. The following are a few of the top UX and web design hard and technical skills:

List of hard skills examples

• 3D Design
• Adobe InDesign
• Adobe XD
• Figma
• Information Architecture
• Interaction Design
• Prototype Design
• Sketch
• Sketching
• Technical Drawing
• Typography
• User Interface (UI) Design
• Wireframing

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Examples of hard skills - copywriter

Copywriters require specific hard skills to write compelling and effective content across platforms. The following are a few of the top hard skills for copywriters:

List of hard skills examples

• Asana
• AP Style
• Blogging
• Content Strategy
• Google Suite
• Editing
• HTML/CSS for Writers
• Project Management Skills
• SEO Copywriting
• Technical Documentation
• Web Content Writing
• WebFlow
• WordPress
• Writing Skills

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Examples of hard skills - students

Students can benefit from developing a range of hard skills to boost academic performance and future career prospects. The following are a few of the top hard skills for students:

List of hard skills examples

• Advanced Excel
• Data Analysis
• Research Skills
• Public Speaking
• Programming (e.g., Python, Java)
• Graphic Design
• Time Management
• Technical Writing
• Foreign Languages
• Statistical Analysis

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Hard skills examples by industry

Different industries require unique sets of hard skills to excel and meet job-specific demands. Understanding which skills are most valued in your field can help you tailor your resume for a specific job in a specific industry. In this section, you'll find hard skills examples across various industries to give you a clearer picture of what employers are looking for.

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Examples of hard skills - marketing

To excel in marketing, having a strong foundation of hard and technical skills is essential. The following are a few of the top marketing hard and technical skills:

List of hard skills for resume

• A/B Testing
• Affiliate Marketing Software
• Content Management Systems (CMS)
• CRM Software (be specific)
• Email Marketing Software
• Google AdWords
• Inbound Marketing Software
• Keyword Research (be clear about the tools you use)
• SEM (Search Engine Marketing)
• SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
• Video Editing

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Hard skills examples - customer success

Customer success professionals need a range of hard skills to effectively manage and grow customer relationships. The following are a few of the top customer success hard skills:

List of hard skills for resume

• Analytics
• Customer Lifecycle Management
• Customer Success Strategy
• Customer Success Operations
• Data Analysis
• Gong.io
• Lattice
• Metrics and KPIs
• Project Management
• Revenue Expansion
• SaaS Knowledge
• Salesforce
• Team Leadership

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Hard skills examples - project management

Project managers require specific skills to successfully plan, execute, and oversee projects. The following are a few of the top hard skills in project management:

List of hard skills for resume

• Agile Methodologies
• Budgeting
• Contract Management Skills
• Earned Value Management
• Gantt Charts
• Microsoft Project
• Process Improvement
• Risk Assessment
• Scheduling
• Scrum

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Hard skills examples - Human Resources

Human resources professionals need a diverse set of hard skills to manage various HR functions effectively. The following are a few of the top hard skills in human resources:

List of hard skills for resume

• ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) Management
• HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) Software
• Compliance Auditing
• Benefits Administration
• Performance Metrics Analysis
• Learning Management Systems (LMS)
• Organizational Development Tools
• HR Data Analysis
• Conflict Resolution Techniques
• Compensation Benchmarking

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Hard skills examples - Sales

Sales professionals need a combination of hard skills to drive revenue and close deals effectively. The following are a few of the top hard skills in sales:

List of hard skills for resume

• Cold Calling
• CRM Tools (be specific)
• Direct Sales
• Dock
• Leadership Skills
• Market Research
• Negotiation
• Presentation
• Product Knowledge
• Recruiting
• Sales and Budget Forecasting
• Sales Strategy and Planning
• Salesforce
• Upselling

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Hard skills examples - Leadership

Good leaders require a range of hard skills to guide their teams and drive organizational success. The following are a few of the top hard skills for leadership:

List of hard skills for resume

• Business Strategy
• Change Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Financial Management
• Human Resource Management
• Operations Management
• Organizational Development
• Strategic Planning
• Supply Chain Management
• Talent Management

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Add hard skills to your resume with Teal

In one click, Teal's resume creator can help you add all or a selection of your hard skills to a resume without the frustration of rewriting them every time you apply for a specific role. 

You can also categorize your hard skills however you'd like, making them easy for hiring managers to find—maximizing their impact and visibility. 

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The most in-demand hard skills of 2024

With the rapid pace of tech advancement, emerging hard skills continue to shape the job market. To remain ahead in your field, stay updated on these skills.

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1. 3D Printing: The ability to design and print three-dimensional objects using specialized software.
2. Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Development: The creation of immersive digital environments and experiences using AR and VR technology.
3. Cryptocurrency Knowledge: Understanding the mechanisms of digital currencies like Bitcoin, including blockchain technology, mining, and trading strategies.
4. Data Privacy: The ability to protect and manage personal and confidential data in compliance with evolving privacy laws and regulations.
5. Drone Operation: Piloting uncrewed aerial vehicles, often used in cinematography, agriculture, or emergency services.
6. Edge Computing: Processing and analyzing data where it is generated—reducing latency and increasing data processing speed.
7. Genomics: The ability to sequence, interpret, and apply genome data, crucial in healthcare and biotech sectors.
8. Green Energy Technologies: Skills in designing, implementing, or managing technologies that generate environmentally friendly energy (like solar or wind power systems).
9. Quantum Computing: Understanding and working with computers and systems that use quantum bits (qubits) to perform complex calculations at unprecedented speeds.
10. Robotics: The ability to design, construct, operate, and apply robots or robotic systems (increasingly in demand in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics).

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How to list hard skills on your resume

Mastering the art of hard-skill presentation on a resume isn't just about creating a bullet point list. It's about strategically adding hard skills throughout your resume to amplify your potential to leave a lasting impression on prospective employers.

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Choosing the right hard skills 

Listing the right hard skills on a resume comes down to understanding what a hiring manager or recruiter is looking for and presenting your relevant hard skills to match these needs. 

So, how do you choose the best hard skills for your resume?  

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Create a base list of hard skills

Brainstorm all of your technical abilities, certifications, and education. What industry-specific knowledge and expertise do you have? What project management, analytical, or leadership methodologies and frameworks have you worked with? What software or tools are you proficient in within your field? Once you have your list, store it in one central location for easy access when it comes time to fill out an application. 

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Pro Tip: The Teal AI Resume Builder Skills Manager is a great place to do this.

Store all of your skills in one central location. Then, just check the box next to a specific skill to add it to your resume for any role you apply for.

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Manage all of your hard skills in one place with Teal. Sign up for free to get started.

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Review the job description

A job description often offers insight into the relevant skills needed to perform in a specific role. Look for words or phrases that indicate tools and technical competencies like "Google Analytics," "process improvement," "project management," "Python," "content strategy," etc.

The Teal AI Resume Builder and Job Application Tracker highlight the most important hard skills from any job description so job seekers like you can easily list them on your resume.

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Match your hard skills to the role

Once you've identified the key skills required, you should match these with your own. Between hard skills, soft skills, and other requirements, you want to have at least 70% of the qualifications a company is looking for. (But remember, honesty is critical, so only incorporate your actual skills.)

Where to include hard skills on a resume 

Demonstrating hard skills on a resume in various sections offers a high-level view of your technical abilities. Dispersing them adds depth and showcases your well-rounded skillset. 

So, what sections should have examples of your hard skills? 

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Professional Summary

Incorporate hard skills in your professional summary or short professional bio to complement your soft skills and most notable accomplishments. 

For example, if you're a software engineer, one sentence of your professional summary could look like this: "As a highly skilled software engineer with 10+ years of experience, I have expertise in Python development, database management, and a strong problem-solving mindset."

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Work Experience

Include hard skills in your work experience achievements to complement your soft skills and illustrate how you effectively made an impact. 

So, let's say you increased conversions by 3x through A/B testing and data analysis of landing page copy as an achievement; that would look like this: 

"Achieved a 3x increase in conversions through A/B testing, effectively utilizing data analysis to identify and implement data-driven solutions that optimized website performance and user experience."

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Skills

Create a dedicated resume "Skills" section to highlight hard skills related to those in the job description.

A list draws attention to your diverse range of abilities and highlights the unique qualities you bring to the table as a professional. And using a dedicated section prominently showcases your technical expertise and interpersonal skills.

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How to tailor hard skills to fit job descriptions

By tailoring your resume to every role you apply for, you demonstrate how your skills align with the position's requirements. And this helps hiring managers evaluate how qualified you are.

Think of your hard skills as ingredients for a recipe and the job description as your cookbook. Creating a dish with delicious flavor requires specific ingredients, and so does the right candidate for a job.

To tailor your resume to a role, start by carefully reading the job description—this is your recipe. Pay attention to the skills the employer is looking for (these are the 'key ingredients'). Are they looking for proficiency in a particular language or expertise in a software tool?

Next, look at your own set of hard skills. (Think of this as your 'kitchen pantry.') Choose those skills that match the ones listed in the job description. And just like the perfect ingredients make a dish flourish, choosing the right hard skills makes you the ideal candidate for the role.

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Highlighting hard skills with Teal's Resume Builder

The best practice for adding hard skills to your resume is choosing the ones that align with the job description of the role you're applying for. Then incorporate them in each section to elevate your entire professional profile—and you can do this with the free Teal AI Resume Builder.

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Step 1: Sign up for a free Teal account if you haven't yet.

Step 2: Click the "Resume Builder" icon in the left navigation panel. From here, you can choose an existing resume or click the "New Resume" button at the top right.

Step 3: To add hard skills to your professional summary, scroll to Professional Summaries, click the drop-down button, and then "Add Professional Summary." (Create one from scratch, or click the "Generate With AI" Button.)

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Step 4:  To hard skills to your work experience, from the Resume Builder, scroll to Work Experience. Then, click the drop-down button. Click "Add Work Experience" to create a new section or "Add an Achievement" to incorporate hard skills into an existing work history.

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Step 5: To add hard skills to your "Skills" section in the Resume Builder, scroll to Skills, click the drop-down button, then click "Add Skills." Here, you can list your skills individually (in addition to incorporating them in a summary or achievements). 

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Examples of hard skills on resumes 

Check out some real-life examples of hard skills on resumes through various sections and across different position levels and roles.

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Examples of hard skills for student resumes

Professional summary

Certifications

Education 

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Examples of hard skills for resume - Entry-level professional

Entry-level social media manager 

Entry-level software developer

Entry-level data scientist 

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Examples of hard skills for resume - Mid-level professional

Graphic designer 

Business analyst

Project manager 

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Examples of hard skills for resume - Senior-level professional

VP of Sales

Chief administrative officer

Senior IT analyst  

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Hard skills and the 2024 job market

The future of hard skills is being rapidly shaped by the increase in cutting-edge technology development (particularly AI, machine learning, and data science). 

As tech progresses, traditional hard skills may need to be supplemented with expertise in newer technology. And the result could be a significant increase in opportunities for those with skill proficiency in these areas.

As hard skills become more intertwined with technological innovation, so does the importance of lifelong learning. Investing in education, training, and development will be key for job security, more opportunities, and a competitive edge.

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Use hard skills to stand out

Understanding and effectively leveraging your hard skills is crucial to standing out in today's job market. And it isn't just about providing a list of your skills; it's about offering a holistic view of your professional journey, demonstrating how those hard skills, with complementary soft skills, have amplified your impact. 

The Teal AI Resume Builder can help you present those skills with clarity and precision throughout different sections of your resume—highlighting them in a way that resonates with prospective employers.

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Compare your hard skills with Teal

Want to make sure you've got the best ingredients for every application during your job search? Use Matching Mode in Teal's Free Resume Builder to quickly compare the skills and keywords in a job posting to those in your resume. Then, receive a "Match Score." 

You want your Match Score to be 60-70%. You can incorporate more skills and other keywords from a job listing into your content to improve your score—creating a tailored resume. 

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Start leveraging your hard skills to their full potential. Sign up for Teal for free today.