How to List Business Skills on a Resume: Best Skills and Examples

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Many employers in different industries seek to hire candidates with strong business skills. Being able to list different business skills on your resume can help you stand out from other candidates. This article explores some of the reasons why employers want to see business skills listed on your resume, how to effectively add those skills to your resume and the best business skills to incorporate into your resume.

Why employers want to see business skills on your resume

Business skills can be any set of skills that help you excel in the workplace, like negotiation, problem-solving and communication. Employers want to see these skills on your resume because they can show how well you will perform the different functions of the position you’re applying for. 

Depending on the job you’re applying for, you will typically need to tailor your skills list to include different business skills that will be beneficial for the specific role. For example, if you’re applying for a sales position, you should emphasize business skills like time management, negotiation and communication. 

How to list business skills on your resume

Here are some steps you can follow when adding business skills to your resume:

1. First, create a skills section

The goal of the skills section is to show the hiring manager what sort of business abilities you have. Include the professional business skills that apply to the job posting you are applying for. Be sure to include how comfortable you are with each skill. For example, you could add, ‘Critical-thinking skills: proficient.’

2. Second, organize your skills into categories 

This is done by dividing your skills into groups that are related to the position. For instance, a marketing manager’s skill set could be divided into customer service, marketing, interpersonal and software skills. It can also be helpful to separate your skills into hard and soft skills so it’s easier for the employer to read. 

3. Finally, list your essential skills in different areas of your resume

Employers often use skills as keywords for applicant tracking software (ATS) searches. You should try to list the relevant skills a few times, such as under work experience and in the professional summary section. Usually, an ATS notes the frequency of a keyword and ranks the applications with the one having the highest number of keywords listed at the top. 

Listing your business skills on your resume enables you to stand out, pass the applicant tracking software and show hiring managers how you could excel in the position.

Best business skills to add to a resume

Here are some business skills that would be beneficial to add to your resume:

Communication skills

Communication skills are arguably one of the more important skills for any profession but they are especially valued in business, an industry where working with others is key. Candidates should have excellent written and verbal communication skills, allowing them to communicate ideas in a way that is clear and concise. Listening skills are also an important aspect of communication.

Strategic skills

Critical thinking and analytical skills are beneficial in business. Candidates who possess these skills are able to plan ahead, allowing them to make sound business decisions that are based on logic and a strong sense of priorities.

Computer skills

Almost every profession should have a basic working knowledge of computers and how to use them. Make sure to note your familiarity with various computer programs that will likely come in handy in the role being applied for. Additionally, check the job description for specific programs and applications that are required for the position.

Financial management

In business, managing finances is an integral aspect of most positions. Employers seek out candidates who would be able to understand market trends as well as the company’s financial needs. Ideal candidates would then use their expertise to evaluate financial situations, gather insight from the data and develop a plan to address individual scenarios.

Negotiation skills

Regardless of the position you are applying for, negotiation skills are highly sought after by employers. Aside from their use in sales, they are also integral in compromise and collaboration. A candidate who possesses this skill set will be able to work well within a sales-driven team.

Leadership skills

Noting your ability to lead will set you apart as an asset. Even if you are applying for an entry-level position, this will demonstrate that you are responsible, skilled in delegation, trustworthy and ambitious, which are all attributes that employers look for in a candidate.

How to improve business skills

Here are some steps that you can take to improve your business skills: 

1. First, find a mentor 

Look within your industry or company for someone who possesses the skills and experience that are critical to success. Try to connect with them about your goals and aspirations, commend the qualities that you admire in them and then ask if they would be willing to mentor you in your career path. 

2. Next, offer to take on extra projects or leadership roles in your current position

Exposing yourself to new opportunities and experiences, whether they are small or big, will develop your skills naturally. Additionally, your supervisor will likely notice your initiative, opening you up to future advancement opportunities.

3. Lastly, expand your knowledge continuously 

Though furthering your education can mean returning to school to earn a degree, it is also important to continuously educate yourself through personal research. Remain up to date on market trends, as well as new protocols and developments in technology that could improve the efficiency of both yourself and your company.