How to add value to the skills section of your CV -...

The skills is one of the key elements of a CV, as it allows recruiters to form an initial impression of your qualifications. However, many people make mistakes by not highlighting their skills effectively. In this article, we present a proofreading and editing guide to help you optimise the skills section of your CV.

By following these tips for enhancing the skills section of your CV, you can attract the attention of recruiters and increase your chances of being selected for an interview. See also our editorial advice.

Identify key skills

Before writing the skills section of your CV, take the time to identify the key skills that correspond to your target job. Analyse the job description carefully and look for the skills mentioned. This will help you target the most relevant skills to highlight in your CV.

Be specific and concrete

When describing your skills, avoid general and vague statements. Be specific and concrete by using concrete examples to illustrate your skills. For example, instead of simply saying "communication skills", you could specify "excellent verbal communication skills demonstrated when coordinating a 10-member project team".

Use relevant keywords

Recruiters often use keywords to filter CVs. Include relevant keywords related to the job and the industry in your skills section. This will make your CV more relevant to the job and optimise its visibility in the applicant tracking systems (ATS) used by many companies.

Rank the skills in order of relevance

Organise your skills in order of relevance, putting those that are most important for the job in question first. This will enable recruiters to quickly see the key skills and assess your suitability for the job.

Demonstrate your achievements

Instead of simply listing your skills, use the skills section to highlight your relevant achievements. For example, if you have project management skills, mention specific projects you've completed and the results you've achieved.

Add value to the skills section of your professional CV

The skills section is an essential part of your CV and can make all the difference when selecting candidates. By optimising this section by highlighting your skills in a specific way, using relevant keywords and demonstrating your achievements, you can attract the attention of recruiters and increase your chances of securing an interview. By following the proofreading and editing tips presented in this article, you'll be on your way to creating a professional, hard-hitting CV that showcases your skills and qualifications.