When crafting your resume, one of the most important sections is Skills—but how many should you include? A recent study analyzing over 93,000 resumes reveals that job seekers in the U.S. list an average of 9.65 skills, with most falling between 6 and 20 skills. So, what does this mean for you? Let’s break it down.
Key Findings on Resume Skills
- Most resumes list between 6-20 skills, with the median being 8.81 skills.
- Soft skills dominate the most frequently listed qualifications.
- Industry-specific trends determine the most important skills to highlight.
- Higher-level roles (Managers, Directors) tend to list more skills, often exceeding 15.
Soft vs. Hard Skills: What Matters Most?
The study found that the top-listed skills were overwhelmingly soft skills, emphasizing the importance of interpersonal and organizational abilities. Here are the top soft skills that appeared most frequently
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Problem-Solving
- Time Management
- Multitasking
- Attention to Detail
- Adaptability
- Critical Thinking
- Leadership
- Communication
- Creativity
While soft skills are crucial, hard skills remain essential for proving technical competency. The most commonly listed hard skills include:
- Data Entry
- Computer Skills
- Microsoft Office
- Data Analysis
- Quality Assurance
- Project Management
- Documentation & Reporting
- Process Improvement
- Inventory Management
- Technical Support
Industry-Specific Skill Trends
Your skill selection should align with your industry. Here’s how different sectors prioritize skills:
- Healthcare & Social Assistance: Patient care, communication, adaptability
- Retail & Sales: Customer service, sales techniques, organization
- Professional & Business Services: Analytical thinking, project management, interpersonal skills
- Manufacturing & Production: Technical skills, attention to detail, problem-solving
How Many Skills Should You List?
There’s no magic number, but here are some best practices:
- 6-10 skills for early-career professionals
- 10-15 skills for mid-level professionals
- 15+ skills for leadership roles (Director, Manager, Specialist)
- Prioritize relevance—tailor your skills to each job application
- Don’t overload your resume—listing 20+ skills may dilute the impact of key qualifications
Final Thoughts
The right mix of soft and hard skills can make your resume stand out. Rather than listing every skill you have, focus on the ones most relevant to the job you’re applying for. Employers value quality over quantity, so make sure your skills reflect your strengths and experience.
Need help perfecting your resume? American Workforce Group can connect you with job opportunities that match your skill set. Apply with us today!
Resources & Links
Here are some helpful resources to enhance your resume and job search:
- American Workforce Group – Apply for Jobs
- Zety Resume Builder Study (Source of resume skill statistics)
- Indeed Resume Guide: Skills Section
- LinkedIn Resume Tips
- Glassdoor: What Recruiters Look for in a Resume