How can you make your hard skills stand out to a recruiter?

Pro Tip: Carefully review A LOT of similar job descriptions. You will find trends in the keywords and phrases used which will help you write a strong, ATS-friendly, tailored resume.

Matching the terminology of the job posting is one of the easiest ways to express your experiences in a transferable manner. One of the biggest concerns from a hiring manager is how well you will integrate into the company, industry, or position. The resume you write will directly address these concerns! Taking the description of the job posting and using the major keywords or phrases is an opportunity to go above and beyond as an applicant. Often times the job posting asks for general experience with a software or type of tool, but if you go on to list multiple examples/projects/occurrences, then you align more and more with their ideal candidate!

Capturing a recruiter's attention with your hard skills involves strategic presentation. Begin with a dedicated skills section, spotlighting your technical proficiencies. Align these skills with the job requirements, using industry-specific keywords. Quantify your skills when possible—mention certifications, software expertise, or any specialized training. For example, rather than merely stating "Proficient in Excel," showcase your proficiency with specifics like "Advanced Excel with expertise in data analysis and pivot tables." By providing context and tying skills to tangible outcomes, you showcase real-world application and impact. Remember, clarity and relevance are key to catching a recruiter's eye.

Demonstrating them seems like a fine way to do that Of course, I'm lucky, what I envision I built a working proof of concept for.

You can make your hard skills stand out by placing them prominently, tailoring them to the job using keywords, quantifying achievements, highlighting certifications, providing specific examples, listing tools proficiency, showcasing growth, using metrics, prioritizing key skills, incorporating a portfolio, seeking LinkedIn ...

Hard skills go hand in hand with hard evidence. Sometimes our resumes come off very vague when we fail to elaborate on our experience. Describing the industry, projects, clients, or scope of work all help to provide more context and perspective to the interviewer. Introducing metrics that are supported by percentages, numbers, or key performance indicators also help to describe your performances amongst your peers / standards.

What a better way to show off to recruiters than using hands-on examples and evidence?! Describe specific projects or achievements where you applied these skills effectively. Consider using metrics or quantifiable outcomes to demonstrate the impact of your hard skills, which can make a strong impression on recruiters and show them that you have a track record of success in using these abilities.

In my experience, highlighting your certifications isn't just about proving competence—it's about showcasing dedication. When you opt for courses, attend workshops, or earn awards, it shows not just your knowledge but your passion for continual learning. It's like saying, "I'm not just good at this; I'm committed to being the best." So, beyond listing that CPA license or seminar, use a narrative: "Pursued a CPA license to deepen my financial acumen," or "Attended advanced accounting seminars to stay ahead of industry trends." Every credential tells a story of your journey and commitment. Make it resonate with the reader/recruiter!

It's like picking the right tool for the job—not everything in the toolbox. Focus on what the employer is hunting for. Dive into the company and role—what skills do they keep mentioning? Those are your leads. And if you've got a rare gem of a skill that’s in short supply, make sure it’s front and center. Prioritize the skills that pack the biggest punch for the role, and place them where they're immediately seen—like your resume's prime real estate, the top fold. This way, you’re not just listing skills; you’re strategically presenting a match between what you excel at and what they desperately need.

Pro tip: Treat your skills like a garden – nourish them, and they’ll flourish, catching the recruiter’s eye. For instance, if you're into graphic design, don't just list Adobe Creative Suite. Share how you redesigned a website, increasing user engagement by 30%. This showcases growth and tangible results – exactly what recruiters love to see!

To make your hard skills stand out to a recruiter, focus on demonstrating their relevance and proficiency. Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight skills directly related to the job. Use specific examples of how you've applied these skills in previous roles. Consider obtaining relevant certifications to validate your expertise. During interviews, be ready to discuss your skills in practical terms, showcasing your ability to solve problems and contribute to the organization. Additionally, create a strong online presence through platforms like LinkedIn, showcasing your skills and sharing relevant content to further establish your expertise.