analytical and problem solving skills cv

How to List Problem-Solving Skills on a Resume [List Included]

Problem-solving skills are more in-demand than ever. 

Employers love candidates with problem-solving skills because, in 99% of cases, they guarantee you're also logical, creative, clear-headed, and a great decision-maker. 

But claiming you have organizational skills on your resume is not enough. 

To impress recruiters, you've got to prove that you possess them. 

This includes understanding which problem-solving skills you possess and adding them to your resume (the right way), among other things.

This is where this article comes in! We put together everything you need to know about problem-solving skills, including: 

• 8 Essential Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume

How to Add Problem-Solving Skills to Your Resume

• Why Are Problem-Solving Skills Important
• 6 Problem-Solving Steps

Let's dive right in! 

8 Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume

Research shows that problem-solving skills consist of several facets : 

• Identifying and analyzing a problem
• Taking effective actions
• Understanding the effect of the decisions
• Coming up with creative and novel solutions
• Transferring knowledge from one situation to another
• Thinking abstractly about problems

As such, there is no single problem-solving skill. Problem-solving includes a set of skills, all of which are equally important in helping your personal and professional life. 

Below, we’ll cover the eight most important problem-solving skills that you can also list on your resume to impress recruiters: 

#1. Research skills

To properly identify and understand a problem, you need excellent research skills. 

Research skills involve being able to gather information from the right sources, reviewing that information in detail to extract the data you need, analyzing the data according to the context, and being able to apply the data to your situation. 

#2. Analytical skills

Analytical skills are required throughout the entire process of solving a problem. 

In a nutshell, analytical skills refer to being able to analyze a situation in depth and from different perspectives . Specifically, you need analytical skills to achieve all of the following while solving a problem:

• Detect patterns
• Interpret data
• Analyze new information
• Reach conclusions based on several factors

#3. Creativity

Being creative means being able to think outside of the box and look at situations and problems inventively. 

For most people, creativity is mainly associated with creative industries such as arts and crafts, architecture, design, etc. 

In reality, however, creativity is an essential success factor for every job and the data is here to support that. According to this Adobe study , problem-solving (51%) and creativity (47%) have gained the most value in driving salary increases in the last five years. 

When it comes to the process of solving a problem, creativity can help you consider more perspectives, think abstractly about problems, and come up with novel solutions that others haven’t thought of before.

#4. Critical thinking skills

Being able to think critically means that you’re good at rationalizing, understanding the connections between ideas or situations, and logically analyzing any given situation. 

As such, strong critical thinking skills can help you see beyond what’s at face value, make more informed decisions, and anticipate the outcomes of said decisions. 

People who have critical thinking skills share traits such as open-mindedness , cognitive flexibility , skepticism , clarity , and precision . 

#5. Decision-making skills

Before coming up with a single action plan to solve a problem, you’ll need to first brainstorm several possible solutions. 

After that, you need good decision-making skills to choose the best possible solution. Without decision-making skills, you risk prolonging finding a proper solution or aggravating a problem even more. 

#6. Communication skills

With strong communication skills , you’re able to successfully explain the problem to others and propose your solutions. In turn, you can be sure that everyone’s on the same page and that you’re carrying out the action plan accordingly. 

Some communication skills required for problem-solving include: 

• Active listening
• Written and verbal communication
• Giving and receiving feedback

#7. Collaboration

Problem-solving is rarely a process you carry out alone. More often than not, you need to consult relevant stakeholders, give and receive feedback, and work with a team towards a common goal (i.e. solving the problem).

Well, collaboration entails exactly that - working well with others, cooperatively addressing problems, and putting a group’s goal ahead of personal goals. 

Some important collaboration skills that help with problem-solving include: 

• Conflict resolution
• Emotional intelligence 

#8. Attention to Detail 

Have you ever heard of the expression “the devil’s in the details?”

It means that something may seem simple on the surface, but in fact, the details make it complicated and are likely to cause problems.

Well, if you’re someone who shows great attention to detail, you’re not likely to let details keep you from solving a problem effectively. 

Not to mention, being able to spot and understand even the smallest details that make up a problem means you’ll be able to grasp the issue in its entire complexity and come up with even more inventive and workable solutions. 

Now that we covered the most important problem-solving skills, we’ll show you how to add them to your resume so that you can stand out from other candidates. 

Let us walk you through the process, step-by-step: 

#1. Mention Your Problem-Solving Skills on Your Resume Summary

The resume summary is a three or four-sentence paragraph positioned at the top of your resume that includes: 

• Your profession and years of experience 
• Your top skills (i.e. hard skills or soft skills)
• One or two noteworthy achievements 

The goal of the resume summary is to catch the hiring manager’s attention, show them you’re a relevant candidate and get them to go through the rest of your resume in detail. 

As such, it’s your first chance to highlight your problem-solving skills effectively. You can either do that by mentioning them among your top skills or by mentioning an achievement that proves you possess a given skill.

In the best-case scenario, you can even do both. 

Here is an example of how you can include problem-solving skills in your resume summary: 

• Behavioral psychologist with 7+ years of experience in the field. Great research, analytical, and communication skills. Over the last eight years, I’ve worked closely with more than 100 patients with different behavioral disorders, helping them improve their personal and professional lives through different treatment methods. 

#2. Add the RIGHT Problem-Solving Skills Under Your Soft Skills

Secondly, you should list your problem-solving skills under your resume’s soft skills section . 

The listing part is pretty easy - simply create a section titled Skills and write down your problem-solving skills.

There is, however, one caveat: 

You don’t want to overkill your skills section by listing every problem-solving skill we covered in this article.

Not only will the hiring manager have trouble believing you possess each and every skill, but there’s also a high chance you don’t even need all those skills to begin with. 

To make your skills section as relevant as possile, do the following: 

• Check the job description. The job description can show you exactly what skills you need for the job. If you’re applying for, say, a software engineering position, you’ll probably be required to have the following problem-solving skills: analytical skills, creativity, attention to detail, and cognitive flexibility. 
• Identify the skills you possess. Think about which skills you can back up with actual experience from your previous jobs. Only list problem-solving skills that you actually possess and that you can prove you possess on your resume. 
• Add those skills under your soft skills. Then, add the problem-solving skills that you have and that are required in the job under your resume’s “Soft Skills” section. 

#3. Prove Your Problem-Solving Skills In Your Work Experience Section

Finally, you should use the work experience section to prove that you’ve got the problem-solving skills you’ve mentioned throughout your resume. 

Anyone can just claim that they’ve got problem-solving skills on their resume - not everyone can back them up with experience.

Here’s what you can do to convey that you possess problem-solving skills and also make your work experience section as impactful as possible: 

• Tailor your work experience to the job. Only add past jobs that are relevant to the position you are applying for now. If you’re applying for, say, a software engineering position, the hiring manager will be interested in your previous jobs in the field, but probably not too interested in the time you worked as a server at a restaurant. 
• Focus on your achievements instead of your responsibilities. More often than not, hiring managers know exactly what your responsibilities consisted of in previous jobs. What they want to know is how you made a positive impact with your achievements. 
• Make your achievements quantifiable. Speaking of achievements, you want to make them as quantifiable as possible. After all “treated ten patients in the course of a year using positive reinforcement” sounds much better than “treated ten patients.”
• Use the Laszlo Bock formula . If you’re having trouble phrasing your achievements, the following formula will probably be of help: “Accomplished X as measured by Y doing X.” 
• Leverage action verbs and keywords. There are hundreds of words and verbs you can use instead of “did,” “accomplished,” etc. The more descriptive you are of your achievements, the more impressive they can sound.

And here’s an example of a project manager describing their problem-solving skills in their work experience section:

• Fixed company communication issues by implementing a new project management solution. 
• Improved team productivity by implementing time-tracking software and doing daily stand-up calls.
• Managed to meet all client deliverable deadlines in 2022.

Why Are Problem-Solving Skills Important?

Are you wondering what exactly is it that makes problem-solving skills so important? 

After all, there are hundreds of soft skills out there that you can master, improve, or learn how to add to your resume. So it’s normal to wonder “why should I focus on problem-solving?” 

Here is why problem-solving skills matter:

• They can improve your employability. Problem-solving skills are among the most important skills to employers across a range of occupations. In short, employers are always looking for proactive thinkers who can address professional challenges.
• They can help you grow in your career more easily. You’ll be more likely to get promoted if you can come up with creative solutions to the different problems that you’ll face throughout your career.
• They can become an essential part of your personal brand . Your current employer, coworkers, and future employers alike will see you as someone creative, reliable, and helpful.
• They are related to a range of other valuable skills. When you prove you’re a problem solver, you’re effectively saying you’re attentive to detail, logical, creative, analytical, curious, and other things employers are looking for in their employees.

10 Jobs That Require Problem-Solving Skills

As we’ve already mentioned, problem-solving skills come in handy for practically every job. 

Whether you’re a teacher who needs to solve a dispute between peers in your class or a customer representative who needs to help a client, knowing how to go about solving issues is definitely an asset. 

That said, some jobs are all about solving problems. In such cases, problem-solving skills are not just a nice addition to have on your resume - they’re crucial to getting hired. 

Here are the top 10 jobs requiring problem-solving skills in 2024: 

• Software engineer
• Air-traffic controller
• Police officer
• Social worker
• Psychologist
• UX designer

35 Action Verbs You Can Use to Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills

The language you use to describe your problem-solving skills matters.  

Sure, you can use “ solved” to describe how you dealt with a problem throughout your entire resume and risk coming off as repetitive and unimaginative. 

Or , you can use any of the following action verbs and keywords and make your problem-solving skills pop out in the eyes of recruiters: 

• Calculate  
• Critically think 
• Draw conclusions
• Experiment 
• Listen/Listen actively 

The Problem-Solving Process in 6 Steps

Problem-solving is a methodical process. It consists of certain steps that you always need to take if you want to find a good solution. 

The more you understand and practice this process, the better you can get at solving problems. 

Below, we cover the six main steps of problem-solving in detail:

#1. Identify the problem 

The first step to solving a problem is identifying exactly what’s causing it. 

After all, if you’re not focusing on the real underlying issue, you might come up with solutions that don’t fit the problem itself. 

Say, for example, that you’re a teacher that’s facing poor class performance. Identifying whether the problem comes from the students’ not studying enough or from your own teaching methods can make a big difference in the solutions you come up with. 

It typically happens that the faster you find the root cause of the problem, the easier it is to find a proper solution. 

#2. Understand the problem

Once you identify the problem, you’ve got to understand it completely. Here are some questions you can ask to make sure you properly understand a problem: 

• What is the scale of the problem? 
• What are its short and long-term effects? 
• Have you faced something like this before?
• Can the problem be solved by dividing it into smaller parts?

The better you understand the problem in its complexity, the more likely you are to come up with effective solutions. 

#3. Research the systems that make up the problem 

In many cases, solving a problem will be a complex undertaking. See, complex problems are often the result of several different underlying systems that you need to understand to find a dynamic solution. 

Let’s take the teacher example from above. 

If a certain student is not doing too well and keeps getting poor grades, you might be tempted to go the easy route and simply chastise them and tell them to study more.

This, in a lot of cases, might simply not work because you’re not addressing the root cause of the problem.

The student might, for example, be burned out , unmotivated by the curriculum, or simply struggling with specific topics.

A problem-solving solution that’s more likely to work would be to talk to the student (or their parents), try to understand the reason for their poor grades, and address the root cause behind the problem itself.

#4. Visualize the problem 

This may not apply to all situations, but it can definitely come in handy for most. 

Drawing a diagram to visualize the situation or your solution to the problem can help you grasp its complexity better - especially if the problem is multi-faceted. Anything from PowerPoint to a piece of white paper can be a good tool to visualize your problem, highlight the problem area, and tackle it more effectively.

#5. Brainstorm solutions 

After you’ve done all the above, it’s time to start thinking about solutions. 

This is another step of the problem-solving process that’s based on collaboration and effective communication. In the brainstorming phase, you should sit with team members or relevant stakeholders and come up with as many creative ideas and solutions as possible. 

This is not where you come up with your most refined, well-thought-out ideas. Instead, it’s where you discuss freely and combine diverse knowledge and analysis of the problem to come up with diverse solutions. 

Brainstorming is an essential part of problem-solving that can help you break out of boring or predictable ideas and thinking patterns. 

#6. Choose the best answer(s)

This is where decision-making skills come in. With a list of different potential solutions, you can narrow down your options to finally choose the best one. 

To reach a solution more easily, take the following into consideration:

• Your company’s/organization’s objectives
• The budget and the timeframe at your disposal
• The success outcomes
• Potential risks linked to the solution 

Finally, discuss your solutions with relevant stakeholders and team members to gather all the possible feedback that can help you make the best possible decision. 

And remember - once you’ve chosen the best possible solution to a problem, your work is far from over. Being a problem solver also includes the following: 

• Develop and implement an action plan
• Monitor the progress of your plan 
• Make necessary adjustments during the process
• Evaluate the outcomes of your solution 

Problem-Solving Skills Resume Example

Want a resume that makes your problem-solving skills pop like the above example? 

Use one of our tried-and-tested resume templates . 

They’re free, modern, and created in collaboration with some of the best HR professionals from around the globe!

Key Takeaways 

And that's a wrap on problem-solving skills. By now, you should know everything there is to know on the topic. 

Before you go, here are the main points we covered in this article: 

• Problem-solving skills are a set of soft skills that help you solve problems effectively. They involve critical thinking, analytical skills, creativity, communication skills, and attention to detail. 
• Problem-solving skills can improve your employability, work performance, and personal brand. 
• Add your problem-solving skills to your resume summary, under the soft skills section, and in your work history section. 
• When you’re creating your work history section, make sure to tailor it to the job, focus on your achievements and make them quantifiable, and use action verbs and keywords from the job description. 
• To get better at solving problems, follow these steps: identify and understand the problem, research the systems that make up the problem, visualize the problem, brainstorm, and choose the best possible solution. 
• Once that’s done, create an action plan and make sure to monitor its progress as you’re implementing it. 

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Expert Tips for Highlighting Analytical Skills on Your Resume: 2024 Edition

In a data-driven world, your resume needs to keep up. Our 2024, recruiter-approved guide on embedding analytical skills in your resume includes which skills to list, synonyms to use, and 15+ examples.

2 years ago   •   12 min read

Analytical skills are an integral part of any job, be it a data analyst role or a senior management position. But what exactly are employers looking for when they ask to see analytical skills on your resume?

Analytical skills refer to your ability to break down problems and come up with appropriate solutions. These skills are useful in any field, but especially in roles involving science, data, engineering, or other tech-heavy processes. Typically, to show analytical skills, you need to describe a situation or a problem at a previous job, detail how you came up with a solution, and quantify the benefits of your solution. In other words, how did your solution benefit the company or project as a whole?

In this article, we’ll explain what the best analytical skills are to showcase on your resume, how to tailor your skills to each application, how to highlight specific analytical toolsets depending on your industry, and how to show analytical skills in each section of your resume.

Let's start with a quick "how to" before diving into exactly what analytical skills employers are looking for.

A step by step guide to demonstrating analytical skills on your resume

If you're applying for a job that requires strong analytical skills, you should:

• Think of a time when you had to analyze something and include examples in your work experience accomplishments. Be as specific as possible and include the results of your actions.
• Include a section for projects and other activities where you’ve used analytical skills.
• List any relevant degrees or other qualifications in your education section.
• Mention technical skills related to analysis in your skills section.
• Highlight analytical skills in your resume summary and cover letter.
• Use synonyms to avoid repeating “analyzed,” “analysis,” and “analytical skills.”

We'll go into each of those in a little more detail below, but first — what are employers actually looking for when they ask for analytical skills?

Analytical skills to list on your resume

If a job posting mentions analytical skills, that means the company is looking for applicants with abilities in:

• Problem solving
• Observation
• Data analysis
• Critical thinking
• Decision making
• Machine learning
• AI-driven data interpretation
• Deductive reasoning
• Forecasting
• Brainstorming
• Troubleshooting
• Predictive modeling
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis
• Organization
• Communication
• Feedback and reporting

How analytical skills are changing in 2024

With the rise of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial intelligence (AI), traditional analytical roles are evolving to include these new and emerging skill sets. As AI and ML reshape conventional analysis methods and data-driven decision-making, modern recruiters expect to see experience with these types of tools for a variety of roles moving forward.

Studying modern AI and ML tools can help you update your resume and remain competitive, especially in technical roles. Consider investing in online learning, qualifications, and certificates to add these skills to your resume, as this will help your resume stand out in 2024, particularly for modern data-driven roles.

Should you still list analytical skills for non-technical roles?

It's important to mention analytical skills on your resume, even when applying for non-technical roles. In today’s diverse job market, roles in areas like marketing, human resources, and administration still benefit significantly from analytical thinking, even if it’s not directly a data-driven role.

Demonstrating your ability to analyze consumer trends, assess employee data, or manage complex scheduling shows versatility and critical thinking, and highlights your capacity to approach problems creatively, all of which are excellent transferable skills to highlight for any industry.

How to show analytical skills on your resume

Now that you understand what employers are looking for, how do you prove that you have what it takes?You can demonstrate analytical skills on your resume by giving examples of where you:

• Analyzed data to come up with solutions or improve processes
• Worked with numbers (i.e. show your numerical and quantitative abilities)
• Managed budgets or involved in organizational planning
• Designed processes, background research, etc.

In addition to the traditional work settings, it's important to showcase how you've used analytical skills in remote or hybrid work environments, as employers increasingly value candidates who can adapt their problem-solving skills to virtual settings. Highlight examples where you have successfully managed or participated in remote projects, used digital communication tools, or independently solved problems while working remotely.

Synonyms for analytical skills

Where do you begin when demonstrating analytical skills on a resume? With action verbs . These are the heart and soul of your bullet point accomplishments and the clearest way to tell recruiters what you actually did.

Starting with "analyzed" sounds like a no-brainer, and it should definitely be in there once or twice. More than that, however, and it’s likely to make a hiring manager's eyes start to glaze over. Try shaking it up with synonyms like:

• Interpreted
• Investigated
• Extrapolated

Where to put analytical skills on your resume

The best way to demonstrate any kind of soft skill is to scatter it throughout your resume — that way, instead of just saying, "I have great analytical skills" and leaving it at that, you're painting a picture of exactly what you bring to the table.

This means you should include analytical skills in your:

• Work experience bullet points
• Projects or additional section
• Education section
• Skills section
• Resume summary
• Cover letter

Here are some examples of what that should look like.

In your work experience section

The best place to include analytical skills on your resume is in your work experience section . Why? Because a) it’s the part of your resume recruiters pay the most attention to, and b) it shows how you’ve actually used those skills in a professional setting.

Include bullet point examples of times you’ve analyzed data, including what impact your accomplishment had on the company’s bottom line, as shown in the example below.

In a projects or additional section

Your resume doesn’t have to be limited to paid work experience. If you’ve completed significant personal or university projects, activities, competitions, or certifications , feel free to list these in a section titled “Projects,” “Other,” or “Additional Information.”For example:

In your education section

If you have a degree, major, or other qualification that could help demonstrate analytical skills, make sure you list it in your education section . This could include majors in computer science , engineering, mathematics, or statistics.

If you’ve taken courses or projects in AI, machine learning, or advanced data analytics, highlight these to demonstrate your understanding of current industry trends.  If you’re a recent graduate, you could also include minors or relevant coursework .

For example:

In your skills section

Technical skills like data visualization or engineering software , proficiency with standard techniques, programming languages, and other tools and frameworks can all go in the skills section of your resume, as shown in the example below.

Alongside traditional analysis tools, mention your proficiency with modern AI and machine learning software, visualization tools like TensorFlow or PyTorch, and any other modern data analysis frameworks you're familiar with to show that you’re up-to-date with current and emerging tools.

If you’re not sure of which technical skills to include on your resume, use the tool below to search for the job you’re applying for and it’ll give you a list of relevant skills. You can also upload your resume to the tool — it’ll perform a quick scan and tell you which skills are missing from your resume.

In your resume summary

When applying for roles involving data analysis, put your analytical skills front and center in your resume summary . Your summary should be 3-6 lines, including your key skills and experience related to data analysis. For an even better chance of getting past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) , include a resume title that matches the title of the job you’re applying for. For example:

In your cover letter

If you want to talk about your skills in a little more depth, your cover letter is the ideal place. Reinforce that you’re a good fit for an analysis-heavy role by expanding on how you’ve used your analytical skills, including the context, end result, and how you plan to use those skills in the position you’re applying for.

Here's an example:

During my internship with Airbus working with fluid mechanic technology I evaluated wind tunnel and flight test data in order to reduce external airframe noise emissions. The analysis that I conducted involved examining data under varying flight conditions and extracting useful information. At the conclusion of my internship, I was able to provide my group with recommendations for improving the model scale testing in the wind tunnel to make better predictions for the flight test outcomes. My work was part of the group’s task to provide continual improvements to the company’s commercial aircraft. I would be excited to use my analytical skills to improve hardware systems, especially early in their life-cycle at Raytheon, when recommendations can have a high impact and positive result for the end user.

Sample resume with analytical skills

Really need to emphasize analytical skills on your resume? Here's an example of what you should be aiming for:

You can download this resume template in Google Docs or as a Microsoft Word document.

Notice that not once does this example use the words “strong analytical skills.” Instead, it demonstrates these skills through previous experience, technical skills, appropriate qualifications, and the use of resume power words.

Get a free resume analysis

The best way to figure out if your resume conveys enough analytical skills is to upload it to the tool below — you'll get a confidential resume review, with a detailed analysis of your analytical skills.

Analytical skills bullet point examples

You don’t have to start from scratch when coming up with examples of resume accomplishments that demonstrate analytical skills. Here are some examples to help you get started:

Don't just say that you analyzed something — mention exactly what you did and what the results were.

Led the first major effort to A/B test the company's core sales landing page and optimize it for customer acquisition; resulted in a 18% increase in new customers.

You can always list hard skills in your Skills section, but it's even better if you can weave them into your bullet points as well.

Built Looker dashboard using data from MySQL and MongoDB to visualize core business KPIs (e.g. Monthly Recurring Revenue), saving 18 hours per week of manual reporting work.

What employers care about most is the bottom line, so if you made a measurable impact on your company, start with that.

Reduced signup drop-offs from 35% to 18% and increased user engagement by 20%, through a combination of hypothesis testing, segmentation analysis and machine learning algorithms.

Problem solving and critical thinking are essential components of analytical skills. Hiring managers aren't just looking for someone who can solve the problems presented to them — they want people who can seek out answers on their own.

Implemented crash reporter and used findings to fix three biggest causes of crashes; fixes reduced customer support calls by 30%.

Communication and analysis may seem like very different skills, but they often go hand in hand. The best employees are the ones with a healthy mix of hard and soft skills — things like teamwork, leadership, and communication.

Co-led task force to realize $1.62m annual savings; analyzed large sets of data to improve fixed and variable cost inputs and recommended additional invoice validation measures.

How to tailor your analytical skills to match the job description

Matching the skills you highlight on your resume with each specific job description is an essential part of showing a recruiter why you’re the right candidate for the job, and how your previous experience is relevant to their position.

Here's how to tailor your analytical skills to each job you apply for:

• Analyze the job description : Carefully read the job posting and identify any analytical skills specifically highlighted in the text. Employers often list specific tools, methodologies, or problem-solving approaches they prefer, so take note of these.
• Use relevant keywords : Look for keywords in the job description and use a keyword finder to generate a list of relevant words to include on your resume. Including these keywords not only shows that you have the specific skills a recruiter is looking for but also helps your resume get past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Customize your experience : In your work experience section, emphasize aspects of your previous roles that align with these keywords and requirements. For example, if the job requires data visualization, highlight your experience with tools like Tableau or Power BI, and demonstrate your practical experience in contexts similar to what the job will entail.
• Highlight transferable skills : If you are switching industries or applying for a role that involves a different kind of analysis than you've done in the past, focus on transferable analytical skills like data interpretation, statistical analysis, or logical reasoning.
• Quantify your achievements : Whether discussing projects, specific tools, or transferable skills, use metrics to quantify your experience. For example, instead of simply saying that you “worked to improve the efficiency of your project’s marketing campaign” , write that you "Used statistical analysis to improve marketing campaign efficiency, resulting in a 20% increase in customer engagement."

How to highlight specific analytical tools on your resume

When applying for roles that require proficiency in specific analytical tools, it's crucial to highlight and mention the particular tools you have experience with. These tools are likely the exact tools you will be using in your new position, so it’s important to be specific about your experience with each one, even if you’re just a beginner.

• Split up your skills list: Dedicate a portion of your skills section to list the analytical tools you are proficient with, like Excel, SQL, Python, R, Tableau, SAS, or SPSS.
• Highlight your proficiency: Be specific about your level of expertise, such as beginner, advanced, or expert, and the projects you’ve used them in. Even if you are only a novice in a skill, it is worth including if it’s relevant to your application.
• Mention specific tools in your work experience bullet points: Directly mention tools in your work experience section, to demonstrate not just the particular tool but also how you have used it in a work context. For example, “Utilized Python and Pandas library for data manipulation and analysis in a market research project.”
• Describe specific projects and the scope of your skills : If you’ve worked on academic or personal projects that involved data analysis, describe the tools and software you used, the scope of your involvement, and the positive results. This showcases your practical application of these tools in real-world scenarios, even if you lack paid experience with these skills.

How to showcase analytical skills at different career stages

Whether you're just starting out, are mid-career, or are looking for senior positions, here are tailored tips to highlight your analytical skills effectively.

Entry-level candidates

For entry-level candidates, focus on educational and project experience, especially if you lack extensive paid work experience. You can highlight analytical skills you learned through university projects, internships, and relevant coursework and showcase your eagerness to learn and adapt by including relevant certificates or workshops.

Conducted comprehensive data analysis using Python during a university project, resulting in actionable insights to improve campus recycling programs.

Mid-level candidates

If you have a range of paid experience, provide examples of how you've applied specific analytical skills in your previous roles. Show your skill development by discussing how you've expanded your skill set over time, such as learning new data analysis tools or methodologies relevant to your field.

Leveraged data analytics to optimize supply chain processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in costs over two years.

Senior professionals

If you’re applying for a senior position, you want to demonstrate your leadership in analytical roles. Focus on how your analytical skills have contributed to strategic decision-making and leadership, and highlight the impact of your analytical skills on company goals, such as improving efficiency, increasing revenue, or driving innovation.

Guided a team in the implementation of advanced data modeling techniques, enhancing predictive capabilities by 25%.

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Analytical Skills for Your Resume

If you’re reading over a description for a job, you may have come across a requirement such as “Possesses strong analytical skills.” This may leave you wondering: what are analytical skills, and how can I showcase them on my resume?

Analytical skills are commonly listed in job descriptions. These are the skills that allow you to make decisions effectively and solve difficult problems. While you may not know it, you will already have exercised many analytical skills that you can mention on your resume, whether you have done so in the workplace, in school, or elsewhere.

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In this article, we’re going to discuss the basics of analytical skills, why they are important, and walk through a few analytical skills you can mention on your tech resume .

What Are Analytical Skills?

Analytical skills are skills that practice analytical thinking. This is a method of thinking where you first observe a problem, then use the information you have gathered to develop deeper insights into that problem.

Analytical skills are used in a wide range of scenarios in the workplace. For instance, brainstorming new ideas involves a high degree of analytical thinking, because you need to be able to critically evaluate ideas and figure out which ones are worth pursuing.

Making decisions is another scenario where analytical skills may come up. This is because you will need to be able to first analyze a problem before you can make an informed decision about how that problem can be solved.

Analytical thinking involves the ability to try out different approaches and see what works. There is often not one clear answer to a problem that a business faces, and so if you possess analytical thinking skills, you should be competent in trying out ideas, and iterating upon those ideas based on your findings.

Why Do Employers Value Analytical Skills?

Analytical skills are a type of “soft skill”—a trait that is not trained, rather acquired—and are in high demand in the modern workforce.

Analytical skills are important, especially in modern businesses, because they allow you to come up with solutions to difficult problems effectively. Being able to break down a problem into smaller parts, analyze them, and determine an actionable solution can help you tackle tough organizational challenges that a business may be facing.

There are a number of jobs that require analytical skills. For instance, programmers , teachers, data analysts , accountants , and salespeople all need to be comfortable exercising analytical thinking skills.

Examples of Analytical Skills

If you notice that a job description asks for analytical skills, you may be wondering what you can do to your resume to align yourself with those skills.

Here are a few analytical skills you can mention on your resume to showcase your capacity to think analytically:

• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Problem Solving

#1: Communication

In order to solve difficult problems, you need to be able to work in a team.

When you are solving a problem, you’ll first need to work with other stakeholders to determine exactly what problem you need to solve and walk through what approaches have been tried in the past to solve the problem. Then, you’ll need to work with a team to come up with a solution, and implement that solution based on the specifications you have created.

You should be able to effectively communicate using both written and verbal methods of communication, such as presentations, talking with others, and writing memos.

#2: Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is a skill that allows you to think clearly and rationally, and find logical connections between different ideas.

When you’re solving a problem for a business, you will need to figure out all the main features of that problem. You’ll also have to discover why a problem has arisen in the first place. To do so effectively, you will need to be capable of using logic to understand the problem at hand.

#3: Research

Before you can solve a problem, you need to know all about the problem you are trying to solve. This will involve researching the context behind a problem, and collecting any data that will help you better understand the problem at hand.

In the workplace, research may involve working with team members to better understand a problem or creating official methods to collect data to answer a question. For instance, if you are a marketing manager who wants to know why a campaign performed so well, you may have to create a metrics dashboard to analyze data on the effectiveness of a campaign.

#4: Problem Solving

Once you have identified a problem, you need to come up with a solution. In the workplace, you’ll use analytical thinking skills to consider the data you have collected, and figure out what an effective solution to a problem would be.

Then, once you have come up with a solution, you will need to figure out how you can implement that solution. This will involve considering all the constraints within which you need to operate—such as financial or resource limitations—and breaking down your solution into simple and addressable components.

#5: Creativity

To come up with a solution to a problem, you should be able to think creatively.

When you’re working in a business, you may realize that the most obvious solution is not the best option. For instance, if you are trying to reduce overhead, you may realize that cutting certain obvious expenditures is not a good idea because it will impact employee morale. In this case, you would need to come up with other creative ways to reduce overhead.

How to List Analytical Skills on Your Resume

You can highlight analytical skills in three different places on your resume. These are in the summary, professional history, and skills sections.

Let’s walk through an example of how analytical skills can be listed in each of these sections.

Motivated account manager with five years of experience effectively identifying the needs of clients and solving for those needs.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Professional History

Account Manager

J. Davis Paper Company

March 2015 – Present

• Maintained and expanded relationships with core customers.
• Generated monthly accounts closing reports and analysis.
• Liaised with other account managers on core clients.
• Helped identify new ways to improve communication channels with clients.

Administrative assistant skills: organization, time management, resourcefulness, critical thinking, problem solving, written and verbal communication, ability to anticipate needs.

Analytical thinking skills are a crucial component of every industry, from teaching to healthcare to manufacturing. People with analytical thinking skills are those who can effectively identify problems, break them down into smaller parts, and come up with creative solutions to those problems.

If you are applying for a job that seeks analytical skills, make sure that you take some time to consider which skills you have that you could mention on your resume. Ensure that those skills appear prominently on your resume, so that you can position yourself as someone who has the right skills for the job.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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Analytical Skills To Include On Your Resume in 2024

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Did you know that 78% of recruiters consider analytical skills as the second most important set of resume skills they want to see?

In fact, analytical skills are considered one of the three most in-demand skills in today’s ultra-competitive job market.

In this guide, you will learn about analytical skills, how you can hone them, and how you can demonstrate them on your resume to help you stand out.

Table of Contents

• What analytical skills are
• Top analytical skills 
• Importance of analytical skills

How to highlight analytical skills on your resume

How to highlight analytical skills in a job interview, how to develop analytical skills, key takeaways, what are the top analytical skills to add to your resume.

Here are the top five analytical skills you should consider adding to your resume to make you a more attractive job candidate:

• Pattern recognition
• Data analysis
• Problem-solving
• Critical thinking

Hiring managers are always on the lookout for these skills, so try to add them to your resume if you can!

Include the right skills and make your resume stand out

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What are analytical skills?

Analytical skills encompass a wide range of qualities that include the ability to process data, analyze information, think critically, identify cause-and-effect relationships, solve complex problems and make effective decisions. 

Top analytical skills to include on your resume

Analytical skills are critical in virtually all industries and careers. A study by the Pew Research Center revealed that employment in jobs requiring strong analytical skills increased by 77%.

If you want to increase your chances of getting a job interview and get your foot in the door, here are the top 5 analytical skills you should include on your resume.

1. Pattern recognition

Pattern recognition is the ability to spot trends and critical events and use them to make better decisions and achieve success. 

How to demonstrate pattern recognition in the workplace

• Creating new marketing strategies based on customer buying patterns and emerging market trends.
• Researching about the next big wave in your industry and proposing innovative initiatives to ride that wave.
• Calculating your target market’s purchase frequency and implementing outstanding customer service to convert your repeat customers into loyal, long-term clients.

2. Data analysis

Data analysis is one of the most in-demand skills in today’s digitized world. It is the process of analyzing large data sets, extracting smaller, actionable pieces of information from them, and making informed recommendations and decisions.

How to demonstrate data analysis in the workplace

• Analyzing your year-over-year sales data to come up with the top clients who bring in the most value to your company and adjusting your resources accordingly to better serve these customers.
• Identifying areas of inefficiencies in the production flow of your products based on historical data.
• Creating effective financial controls within the company after calculating the amount of money every department overspent in the past year and investigating the real reasons for the budget overruns.

3. Problem-solving

Problem-solving is the ability to identify the right problem, determine the root cause of the problem, and come up with the best solution after weighing all the options.

How to demonstrate problem-solving in the workplace

• Helping improve the overall morale of the company by resolving a protracted conflict between two divisions in the company.
• Identifying mission critical projects that the company needs to prioritize to achieve maximum profitability.
• Boosting your team’s productivity by implementing open communication policies after realizing that the lack of clear instructions and open communication had negatively affected your team’s performance.

4. Critical thinking

Critical thinking involves thinking objectively and analyzing a situation from all angles. This skill set is essential for making sound decisions, whether in business or in your personal life.

How to demonstrate critical thinking in the workplace

• Listing your pending tasks and deciding which tasks to do first.
• Deciding which community development project you will fund first, given that you have meager resources.
• Using a cost-benefit analysis to decide to launch a big project, knowing that it will bring in more customers and drive sales.

5. Creativity

While creativity is often thought of as an artistic skill, it can also be very analytical. Creativity is the ability to come up with new ideas and solutions. This is a valuable skill in any field, as it allows you to approach problems from a fresh and innovative perspective.

How to demonstrate creativity in the workplace

• Proposing value-added products which will generate new income streams based on surveys, online polls, and market research.
• Strengthening the quality of your company’s customer service and creating fun customer engagement strategies based on customer feedback.
• Introducing new productivity apps your company can use to streamline processes, expedite communication, and boost overall productivity after calculating the amount of time and resources wasted on doing things manually.

Why are analytical skills important?

Whether you’re looking for a new job or trying to advance in your current career, having analytical skills gives you a competitive edge. Here’s why.

1. Analytical skills help you solve complex problems

If you can analyze a problem and break it down into smaller pieces, you’re more likely to find a successful solution. Analytical skills help you identify the root cause of a problem, analyze it through multiple angles, and make effective and rational solutions and recommendations. 

In business, there will always be problems that will crop up and employers will want job candidates who can accurately solve problems and solve them fast!

2. Analytical skills help you understand data

Having strong analytical skills helps you sort out large volumes of data and see patterns and trends to arrive at meaningful conclusions.

Companies prefer candidates who can work with data and use it to determine business inefficiencies, make better decisions, and create strategies to bring the company to the next level.

Analytical skills are a vital part of many job roles that involve working with data. For instance, data analyst skills require the ability to sift through large sets of data and draw meaningful conclusions. Data engineer skills involve building and maintaining systems to store and process data, where strong analytical abilities are needed. Data scientist skills also depend heavily on these abilities to interpret complex data and provide valuable insights. Similarly, business analyst skills include the ability to analyze business data and suggest improvements, and financial analyst skills involve making sense of financial data to help businesses make investment decisions.

3. Analytical skills help you make informed decisions

You will be faced with decisions in the workplace every day and having strong analytical skills will help you assess the situation, understand the main goal, listen to opposing views, and choose the best alternative course of action to take.

Employers value candidates who take into account relevant information to come up with informed and effective business decisions.

4. Analytical skills make you more marketable

Candidates with strong analytical skills will always be in high demand. Employers know that only a person who has strong analytical skills is able to solve company problems, use data to support decisions, analyze customer behavior, and detect industry trends. That will help the company achieve growth and success.

Ways to Highlight Your Analytical Skills on Your Resume

• Use data to support your claims
• Be specific about the methods and tools you used
• Use strong action words
• Tailor your resume for each job you are applying for

Now that you know how having strong analytical skills will help you become a competitive candidate, you need to put yourself out there by showcasing your analytical skills on your resume . Here’s how.

1. Use data to support your claims

To showcase your analytical skills, include metrics and measurable accomplishments .

Here are some examples:

• Increased productivity by 20% by adopting a new financial software that automates all our financial processes.
• Analyzed month-over-month production data and identified inefficiencies that cost the company $300,000, then devised solutions that increased efficiency by 13%
• Created a quality assurance system based on industry standards and drove profits by 15%.

2. Be specific about the methods you used

When describing the analytical methods you used to achieve results, be as specific as possible. 

Did you use Excel to create pivot tables and track data over time? Did you use Python to analyze your company’s financial data?

Mentioning the tools and techniques you used shows that you have a deep grasp of analytics tools and that you know how to analyze and interpret data.

3. Use action words

To make your analytical skills stand out, use powerful action words when describing them on your resume. 

Words like “analyzed,” “investigated,” “calculated,” and “determined” will help paint a picture of you as an analytical thinker who achieves results.

4. Tailor your resume for each job

When applying for jobs, you need to tailor your resume to each position . That means highlighting the analytical skills and relevant keywords most relevant for the role you’re applying for. 

For example, if you’re applying for a job in marketing, you should highlight your pattern recognition skills and your creativity. If you’re applying for a job in finance, you might want to focus on your financial analysis, forecasting, and decision-making skills.

Pro Tip : The best way to do this is by studying the job posting, analyzing which skills the job requires, and incorporating those into your resume.

Make sure your resume matches the job you are applying for by using Jobscan’s Resume Optimization Tool .

Here are some tips on how you can show off your analytical skills in your job interview :

1. Give specific examples

Interviewers ask about your analytical skills to know how you addressed complex problems in your previous roles. 

In your answer, include a specific example of a time when you used your analytical skills to solve a difficult problem.

Be sure to describe the steps you took to solve the problem. For example:

“When I looked at our month-over-month sales, I noticed a sudden drop. I zeroed in on that quarter and collected all the data I would need from both the sales and production divisions to understand the cause of the reduced sales since there was a huge demand for our product. It was there I found out that the problem was with our production team. We weren’t hitting our production goals and the quality of our products was not good. When I delved into the issue deeper, I figured out that the main issue was the lack of open communication between the two production managers, which caused conflict and reduced productivity. It was only when I really sat down and sought out the root cause that I was able to properly address the issue that could have cost us millions had it not been addressed.” 

2. Use analytical skills in the interview itself

Sometimes interviewers will ask questions to understand how you solve problems and deal with challenges. They also want to see you think on your feet and showcase your analytical skills.

For example, an interviewer might ask you to analyze a situation and give your opinion on what should be done. 

In this case, you can do the following:

Step 1 . Articulate what the main problem is. Nothing is worse than providing the right solution to the wrong problem. Step 2. Provide the steps you would take to determine the root cause of the problem. Step 3. Share the alternative courses of action you can take to solve the problem. Depending on the time you have, describe the advantages and disadvantages of each course of action. Step 4. End with the best solution you think would solve the problem and prevent it from happening again.

3. Make connections to responsibilities included in the new job

When you are preparing for an interview, look at the job description and identify the duties that will require analytical skills.

For each responsibility, prepare an example of a time when you used your analytical skills in a similar situation. This will show the interviewer that you have the necessary skills for the job.

For example, if the job requires you to analyze customer data to identify trends, you might say,

“ In my previous role, I was responsible for analyzing customer data to identify patterns and trends. I used this information to develop marketing campaigns that were more targeted and effective. As a result, we saw a significant increase in sales. ”

You can also mention any crisis situations you’ve been in and how you used analytical skills to resolve them. This will show that you can think on your feet and make decisions quickly when necessary.

For instance, you could say,

“ I was once tasked with resolving a production issue that was causing major delays. I quickly analyzed the problem and came up with a solution that allowed us to get back on track. As a result, we avoided serious damage to our reputation and increased our productivity by 11%. ”

If you feel like you don’t have strong analytical skills, don’t worry. Analytical skills can be learned and developed. Here are a few ways you can do that.

1. Develop your research skills

If you want to be good at analysis, you need to know how to find and use information. This means developing your research skills. You should be able to quickly find relevant information and evaluate its quality and accuracy.

2. Practice critical thinking

Critical thinking is a key analytical skill. It involves evaluating information and arguments, identifying flaws and errors, and making well-reasoned decisions. 

To improve your critical thinking skills, try to find flaws in your own arguments and the arguments of others. Challenge your own assumptions. Pay attention to your own biases and prejudices, and try to account for them.

3. Be open-minded

An analytical thinker is not someone who blindly accepts everything they’re told. They are open-minded and willing to consider different points of view. To develop this skill, expose yourself to new ideas and perspectives, even if you don’t agree with them.

4. Pay attention to detail

Details are important in analysis. A small error can lead to incorrect conclusions. To improve your attention to detail, try to catch errors in your own work and the work of others. Practice active listening and take time to process information before making decisions.

5. Be patient

Patience is important for analytical thinking. Rushing into decisions can lead to mistakes. If you want to develop this skill, try to slow down and take your time when you’re solving problems. Consider all of the information and options before making a decision.

Analytical skills are one of the most important skills employers look for in a job candidate. Here are a few more points to remember.

• Analytical skills will always be in high demand because employers want to hire candidates who can help them solve problems and create solutions. 
• When showcasing your analytical skills on your resume, make sure you include measurable results.
• Tailor your resume to the job description of the position you are applying for. Look for analytical skills mentioned in the job description and take note of job responsibilities that entail analytical thinking. Incorporate these into your resume. You can also use these during your interview.
• You can hone your analytical skills. It will not be an overnight thing but with patience and consistency, you will be able to develop strong analytical skills that employers are looking for. The struggle will always be worth it especially because having strong analytical skills will make you an indispensable person in your team.

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How To Amplify Analytical Skills in a Resume (With Examples & Best Practices)

While your resume’s content is king, how it's presented can make or break a hiring manager’s first impression of you. So, what elevates a resume from good to outstanding? The spotlight is on analytical skills . 

These skills are highly sought after by employers. Not only do they showcase your capacity for critical thinking and problem-solving, but they also highlight your ability to excel and drive results in complex roles. 

Hiring managers are constantly on the lookout for job seekers with these talents, so it’s vital to include analytical skills in a resume to ensure you stand out in a sea of applicants.

3 key takeaways

• Understanding why analytical skills are important in resumes
• The best analytical skills to include on your resume or cover letter
• How to incorporate your analytical skills with Teal’s AI Resume Builder

What are analytical skills?

Analytical skills, at their core, are the abilities you use to collect, interpret, visualize, and make sense of data or information. Think of them as the mental tools helping you tackle challenges, make decisions, and forecast outcomes. 

From a resume standpoint, they're more than just buzzwords. They're a testament to your capacity to think critically, solve problems, and navigate complex situations. By featuring these skills, you signal potential employers that you’re a strategic, analytical thinker. 

You're someone who can see beyond the surface, delve into details, and extract meaningful insights. And in today's data-driven world, that’s invaluable.

Best analytical skills for a resume

Diving deeper into the exploration of analytical skills, let's tackle the heart of the subject. The job market remains fiercely competitive, and standing out requires showcasing not just any skills but the right ones. 

Resume hard skills or technical skills, especially in the analytical realm, can be a game-changer. So, which ones deserve that prime real estate on your resume? Let's take a look at the top analytical skills that should take center stage on your resume or cover letter—giving them the spotlight they've earned.

1. Data analysis

In a world flooded with information, data analysis is the raft that keeps businesses afloat. 

This skill is all about collecting, processing, and interpreting data to make informed decisions. Whether you're assessing sales trends, customer behaviors, or budget outcomes, data analysis lets you transform raw numbers into actionable insights.

2. Problem-solving

Every workplace encounters challenges, but the distinction lies in how they're addressed. Analytical and problem-solving skills are central to navigating these challenges. 

Emphasizing your complex problem-solving aptitude—a cornerstone of analytical thinking—within your speaks volumes. It's about identifying obstacles, evaluating the most strategic solutions, and taking the necessary actions. 

It's less about reacting and more about proactive transformation, morphing challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. Employers are always looking for problem solvers who can turn hurdles into catalysts for progress.

3. Critical thinking

Critical thinking skills aren’t just reserved for philosophical debates or introspective moments. In the professional sphere, it's a manifestation of strong analytical skills. It's about objectively assessing information, spotting underlying biases, and making decisions grounded in logic and reasoning. 

Critical thinkers won't simply follow the crowd—they’ll critically assess each situation, ensuring their decisions are well-informed and deliberate.

4. Observation

Observation is the bedrock of many innovations and solutions. It involves attentively monitoring environments, behaviors, or situations to gather nuanced insights. 

It's one thing to see a situation, but to observe it means discerning the underlying patterns and details others might miss. This skill can often pave the way for better understanding and resolution of client needs or process inefficiencies.

5. Research

In the professional world, research is the ability to systematically investigate, gather, and evaluate information on a particular topic. Effective research skills can uncover hidden gems of knowledge, aiding in smarter decision-making and more robust strategies.

6. Communication

Communication skills are more than just resume soft skills —together with analytical capabilities, they help you precisely convey and interpret information. 

Robust communication skills guarantee a clear presentation of ideas, insights, and findings. They form a crucial bridge between raw data and decisive actions, ensuring that analytical insights are effectively communicated and understood.

How to add analytical skills to your resume

You can highlight your analytical skills in different ways throughout your resume.

Professional resume summary

In this section, you can include details about your analytical skills as part of a high-level overview of your career. For example, "leveraged advanced statistical analysis to increase sales performance by 25% in the last quarter."

Pro Tip: Use Teal's AI Resume Builder to generate multiple versions of your professional summary and tailor each to a job description. 

Work experience achievements

Your professional "Work Experience" section should focus on your work achievements—not just your job duties or job responsibilities. Your achievements are a great place to weave in your analytical skills alongside hard skills, soft skills, and impact. 

A dedicated "Skills" section

A dedicated resume "Skills" section offers recruiters, hiring managers, and prospective employers a look at your hard skills. If you choose to incorporate this section into your resume, remember to showcase your soft analytical skills throughout the other sections of your resume.

Examples of analytical skills in a resume

Data analysis.

Leveraged statistical tools to analyze large datasets, increasing sales by 10% in Q1 2023 through identifying patterns and trends

Problem-solving

Identified bottlenecks in project timelines and introduced streamlining strategies, improving delivery speeds by 15%.

Critical thinking

Conducted competitor analysis using critical evaluation, leading to a redefined brand strategy that boosted market share by 8%.

Observation

Increased user satisfaction rates by 20% through website redesign using member studies to pinpoint UX pain points

Revamped editorial calendar, increasing website traffic by 25% by leveraging comprehensive market research to gauge content trends. 

Communication 

Presented data-driven sales pitches using clear and persuasive communication strategies, resulting in a 30% uptick in closed deals

Best practices for including analytical skills in a resume

Now you have a solid grasp on what analytical skills are and even some top contenders to highlight. But how do you feature them in a way that stands out and truly captures your abilities?

Include specific examples of analytical skills

It’s one thing to say you possess a certain skill, but it’s another to demonstrate how you’ve put it into action during your work experience. Including specific examples gives concrete evidence of your capabilities. 

Instead of just mentioning "data analysis," specify how you identified a crucial trend that boosted revenue. When you showcase the effective solutions you’ve developed, you offer recruiters a glimpse into what you could achieve in their organization.

Be prescriptive about your methods

The “how” is just as important as the “what.” By detailing the methods or tools you've employed, you showcase your technical know-how and lend credibility to your claims. 

Were you using A/B testing to refine a marketing strategy? Or did you employ a specific statistical tool to crunch the numbers? Pinpointing these methods paints a fuller picture of your analytical capabilities.

Tailor to the job description

Every role has its unique set of demands. While you might have a vast array of analytical skills, it’s important to spotlight those most relevant to the job you’re eyeing. 

By aligning your skillset with the job description, you demonstrate an understanding of the role and its requirements. Plus, it hints at how seamlessly you'd fit into the position.

Pro Tip: With Teal+, you can use the Teal Chrome Extension to see all of the skills and keywords in any job description from one location—no toggling back and forth or switching platforms to tailor your resume with ease.

Use action verbs

Action verbs inject energy into your resume and provide clarity. Instead of saying you were "involved in a project," specify that you "orchestrated," "devised," or "spearheaded." 

These verbs convey activity and emphasize your proactive role in analytical pursuits.

Amplify analytical skills with Teal

Your job search success hinges on showcasing the right key skills in your resume—particularly your analytical abilities. Remember, as hard skills, they demonstrate expertise; as soft skills, they amplify your adaptability and insight. 

Teal equips you with the right tools designed to help you shine. By highlighting your strongest analytical and problem-solving skills in the best light, you’re setting the stage for success. 

Teal’s AI Resume Builder can help you create a resume tailored to specific job postings, also offering real-time feedback on how to modify your resume for the best results. With this targeted approach, job seekers like you can stand out from the crowd and boost their chances of getting an interview!

Ready to build a resume that’s optimized for results? Join Teal today and make your career aspirations a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some specific phrases to use when describing analytical skills on a resume, how can i quantify my analytical skills on a resume, can i include analytical tools and software in my resume, and where should they be placed.

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How to Present Analytical Skills on Your Resume

If you have ever had anyone tell you that analytical skills can be an important addition to your resume, then there’s a good chance that you’ve wondered exactly which of those skills employers want to see . Just as important, you might be curious about how you’re supposed to present those analytical skills in a way that delivers the right message to potential employers. What is the right way to craft a great analytical skills resume that properly showcases your most relevant analysis abilities?

In this post, we will explain analytical skills and examine why they are so valuable to today’s top employers. We will also provide some great examples of analytical skills and show you how to successfully highlight them in your analytical skills resume.

What are analytical skills?

The simplest way to define analytical skills is to consider all of the various abilities you use to identify and solve problems. Basically, analytical thinking skills encompass all of the traits and abilities that help you observe situations, research and identify patterns, interpret data, and create solutions. These skills are used in any scientific approach to problem-solving and enable you to break down complex issues into simpler facts and data, develop a deeper understanding of the underlying issues involved in any problem, and create and test potential solutions.

The skills that can be properly defined as analytical can all be learned and developed. No one is born with these abilities. However, some people are more analytical than others and seem to have an easier time developing these traits. Nevertheless, anyone can become a more analytical thinker with enough time and effort. So, even if you feel like you might be lacking in any of these skills, rest assured that you can improve them and increase your potential value to any employer.

It’s also important to note that analytical skills can be applied in a variety of ways and by different types of problem solvers. 

Evidence-based problem solving: For example, if you are someone who appreciates a methodical, evidence-based approach to resolving challenges, analytical thinking can help you with your observation, pattern detection, data interpretation, brainstorming efforts, and decision-making processes.

Creative problem solving: But what if you are a more creative problem-solver who likes to think outside of the box and come up with new, innovative solutions? Well, analytical thinking skills can help you there as well. While your brainstorming process might be different than less evidence-based types, you still need to be able to collect and analyze data so that your creativity is based on the facts at hand.

Why employers want candidates with great analytical skills

As the modern economy has become more innovative and fast-paced, employers have increasingly prioritized analytical skills resumes during their hiring processes. These skills are valuable in virtually every industry today since they empower employees to identify problems, understand cause and effect, create new solutions, and devise plans to effectively implement those ideas. For an employer, those skills can add immediate value to the company’s bottom line.

That’s why analytical skills in a resume can help to capture a hiring manager’s attention. Companies need analytical thinkers at every level of their operations, from senior leadership to customer service personnel. To understand why, let’s examine the difference between a customer service representative with strong analytical skills and an employee who lacks those abilities.

Someone with strong analytical skills: The analytical thinker will more easily recognize patterns in customer behavior, whether they involve purchasing habits, refund requests, or everyday complaints. That employee may be driven to analyze those patterns, attempting to determine the root causes of those customer activities. That can lead to creative solutions that enhance sales, reduce refunds, or improve customer satisfaction.

Someone lacking analytical skills: Meanwhile, the employee who lacks analytical skills will be more likely to just go through their work routine, oblivious to those behavioral patterns. While that is not necessarily a bad thing—the employee is still doing their job, after all—it should be easy to understand why an employer would prefer the analytical thinker if given the choice between these two job candidates.

Examples of analytical skills to include on your resume

Analytical skills resumes should include a variety of abilities that demonstrate your analytical thinking and problem-solving talents. Strong analytical thinkers have abilities that can be roughly categorized into five main skill areas:

Observation. The ability to observe a situation, identify problems, and recognize potential causes and effects.

Research. A good analytical thinker can gather facts and evidence, compile it, and differentiate between relevant and irrelevant information.

Critical thinking. These skills provide any analytical thinker with the ability to competently evaluate data and fact patterns based on all the available information at hand.

Creativity . A creative thinker can identify trends, make logical inferences to close the gap between disparate pieces of data, and create potential solutions that may not always be obvious to others.

Communication. This skill set can include both written and verbal communication and is absolutely vital for any successful analytical thinker. Without good communication skills, there can be no collaborative problem-solving, no successful reporting, and no real teamwork.

Within those five categories, there are a host of abilities that contribute to sound analysis. Below are some examples of the types of talents you might want to include in your analytical skills resume:

Attention to detail

By highlighting your attention to detail in your resume, you can make sure that employers understand your ability to recognize problems and identify root causes. This skill is vital for any analytical thinker who wants to resolve complex challenges.

Active listening

Active listening is important for anyone who wants to fully understand a situation. It enables you to be more efficient in gathering data and information while also contributing to more effective communication and collaboration.

Data collection and interpretation

These research skills are vital for effective analysis because they enable analytical thinkers to gather the facts and data they need and properly interpret their importance and impact in any given situation.

Pattern and trend recognition

An analytical approach to problem-solving often requires you to recognize how data points fit together to form patterns and trends. Identifying these informational patterns and trends can help to inform any attempt to resolve problems.

Brainstorming

This creative skill is used whenever problem-solvers begin to search for potential solutions to any challenge. In many instances, the brainstorming process will involve the creation of many possible solutions, each of which is then analyzed further to predict its viability.

Collaboration

The ability to collaborate is a key skill for analytical thinkers since they’re often called upon to work as part of a larger team. Vital teamwork skills can help facilitate deeper consideration of issues and fact patterns and provide new perspectives on possible solutions.

Tips to help you create your analytical skills resume

Of course, you also need to know how to highlight these skills in your analytical skills resume. For maximum effectiveness, you should try to include these abilities in your summary, work experience, and skills sections.

Analytical skills in your resume summary

The first opportunity you’ll have to showcase your analytical skills in your resume is in the resume summary. Of course, you should not just state that you’re an analytical thinker. Instead, include references to some of those analytical abilities you possess. For example:

Dedicated marketing analyst with 9 years of experience developing detailed market analytics for Fortune 500 clients. Led a 30-person team charged with revitalizing multiple client marketing strategies, using a range of predictive, prescriptive, and diagnostic analysis techniques to help customers keep pace with an ever-evolving marketing landscape.

Analytical skills in your professional experience section

Naturally, you will want to include analytical abilities within the experience section too. You can do this by pointing to specific achievements that you accomplished using these skills. List those achievements in the bullet points beneath your specific job roles. For example:

Dynacorp, Inc. | 2018-2023

Project Manager

Overhauled workflow process for client management, reducing annual costs by $300,000 and increasing annual profits by 18%.

Implemented a new data analysis process using Tableau, reducing data loss and disorganization by 62% in the first quarter of 2023.

Analytical skills in your skills or core competencies section

In addition, your analytical skills should be prominently placed within your skill or core competencies section. Be sure to identify any required analysis skills by reviewing the job description, and then include those specific keywords or phrases in your analytical skills resume to ensure that you satisfy any applicant tracking system the company might be using. You can include skills found in this post, as well as other analytical abilities like investigation, ROI analysis, policy analysis, cost analysis, data dissection, inductive reasoning, data prioritization, and more.

Creating the right kind of analytical skills resume can be essential for demonstrating your analysis abilities to a potential employer. By understanding your own talent for analysis and learning how to properly present those skills to an employer, you can increase your odds of standing out from any job competitors.

Need help crafting your analytical skills resume? Get your free resume review from our team of experts today!

Recommended reading:

Convergent Thinking: Definition, Example, and Process

Improve Your Critical Thinking Skills to Reach Your Career Goals

Why Having Business Acumen Skills Can Improve Your Employability

Ken Chase, Freelance Writer

During Ken's two decades as a freelance writer, he has covered everything from banking and fintech to business management and the entertainment industry. His true passion, however, has always been focused on helping others achieve their career goals with timely job search and interview advice or the occasional resume consultation. When he's not working, Ken can usually be found adventuring with family and friends or playing fetch with his demanding German Shepherd. Read more resume advice from Ken on  ZipJob’s blog .

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Problem-solving skills – and how to include them on your CV

Creativity changes perspectives

Research informs decisions, resilience keeps chipping away, adaptability allows for innovation.

Problem-solving skills are critical for any career, but they are often so intricate and unique to each situation that they are difficult to describe with adequate detail in the compressed format of a CV.

It is not enough to state that you are great at problem-solving and leave the rest up to the hiring manager’s imagination. In this blog, we consider the ingredients of problem-solving and how to start the conversations in your CV that you can then explore in more detail during an interview. We look at:

• How to include details of a 7-step problems solving process
• Four advanced problem-solving techniques
• How to share your problem-solving skills on a CV.

Problem-solving should be described in the context of what you have achieved and how that might be relevant to solving the future issues of your potential employer. The hiring manager should read about your problem-solving skills and immediately get excited about how you can deploy them to make their life easier.

Firstly, let’s consider a typical problem-solving process and how you can detail every aspect in various parts of your CV.

Showcase your 7-step problem-solving process

You will not have enough space on your CV to illustrate the range of skills that you may have deployed to solve each individual issue, but you can make sure that you sprinkle each of these steps across the range of your work experience. Problem-solving can be a complex process, so demonstrate that you have deep experience in all the following:

Identity : Spotting an issue isn’t tricky, but to solve it, you need to be able to identify the nature of the problem with all its moving parts. Focus is critical at this stage as there will likely be lots of side issues to consider.

Analyse : When it comes to analysing the aspect of the issues that you are seeking to solve, you need to look at everything, at the causes and effects of what is going on, involving others, and seeking different perspectives. Problem-solving doesn’t happen in a vacuum.

Generate solutions : Effective brainstorming does not shut doors on ideas. When you have a wide range of options at your disposal, it will feel like you have several potential routes for your solution. You also have plenty of backup plans up your sleeve.

Evaluate : The evaluation stage of the problem-solving process takes a very special mixture of judgement and courage. Sure, use your practical experience to estimate the optimal solution, but allow your imagination to play its part in guessing what might happen.

Choose solution : Based on your evaluation, then select the best solution. This may depend on your organisational constraints and the resources available. If you can offer a potential employer a brief insight into your decision-making process in a CV, that is ideal.

Implementation : Implementing your ideas is a critical part of the problem-solving process. The best ideas in the world are useless unless you can make them work for the long term. No one wants to work with people who have ideas and then leave it to other people to make them happen. Own your problems and see through the solutions to the end.

Review : Once you have implemented the solution, it is essential to review which parts of the process may be tweaked to improve it next time. If the situation has not been suitably resolved, it may be worth revisiting some of the previous steps.

As previously mentioned, all of the above can be mentioned throughout the work experience section of a resume. Which of your achievements required particular effort in which parts of the problem-solving process? What were the critical moments that managed to unlock various solutions? Tell your stories of problem-solving proficiency.

Four advanced problem-solving skills

While the steps above would work for any problem, the varied nature of workplace issues can require more nuanced sets of skills to tease out the right solutions. 

While analytical and critical thinking may get you to a certain level of solution, the following four skills may be required to unlock the most stubborn of issues.

Coming up with innovative and effective solutions often requires creative thinking, particularly for complex or novel problems. Looking at a problem from a different perspective can open up all sorts of creative approaches. Practical problem-solving does not have to be unimaginative.

Effective problem-solving often requires researching or gathering information about the problem. This can involve searching databases, consulting experts, or collecting new data. When your decisions are backed up by significant amounts of research, you can often carry the day with the force of your convictions. 

Problems can be frustrating, and solutions may not be immediately apparent. Resilience is the ability to persist in the face of obstacles and continue working towards a solution. Many problem-solving processes involve a changing playing field with unexpected obstacles – resilience is what will keep you changing tack until you find the right way forward.

Sometimes, solutions that initially seemed promising may not work out, requiring a change of approach. Adaptability involves being open to changing course and trying new strategies when necessary. This can be somewhat embarrassing when you have sold the initial solution so hard, but swallow your pride. Be adaptable enough to change your mind.

How to address problem-solving skills on your CV

While every CV should rightly focus on achievements and skills, every employer will want to understand the decision-making processes behind them. Hinting at the problem-solving skills behind the achievements is not a simple task in a truncated format, but it is possible.

If you take care with how you describe your bullet-pointed accomplishments, you can hint at the aspects of problem-solving that played the biggest part in the achievement. Selecting the right action verbs will tell the employer just what led to the desired result.

Many CVs might include a 2-3 summary of your time at an employer before any bullet points. It is here that you can outline your unique difference – it is often your problem-solving skills that will set you apart from the competition.

Key takeaways

• While you definitely won’t have the space to do justice to your problem-solving skills in your CV, including some of them that have come at pivotal moments in your career will help to shape the conversations that you would like to pursue during an interview.
• When the hiring manager is reading your CV again after the interview, they will be reminded of those moments again.
• A CV is not just a selection of facts and achievements – you have the opportunity to shed a little light into how you got there.
• Weave your problem-solving competency into the fabric of your CV. Wherever possible, use real-world examples to back up your ability.

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Soft Skills Explained - and the Top 7 for Your Resume

10 min read · Updated on March 27, 2024

You've heard the term “soft skills,” but do you know which employers find most valuable?

If you've ever applied for a job or used a resume, chances are that you recognize the term soft skills . A good resume will always include a balanced mix of job-related technical hard skills and key soft skills - and having the right soft skills for your resume can often be the determining factor that separates you from everyone else who applies for the job.

But do you really know what soft skills are and why they are important? Well, you can relax, because we have the answers you need! In this post, we'll explain everything you need to know about soft skills for a resume and highlight the top seven skills that can enhance your chances of landing your next job.

What are soft skills?

Soft skills include all those social and people skills that you possess, as well as aspects of your personality and key character traits. They're the interpersonal skills and work habits that you use each day to provide value for an employer. They include key skills like communication, adaptability, and the ability to collaborate with others.

Soft skills vs hard skills

When it comes to understanding soft skills, it's sometimes easier to think about them in terms of how they differ from hard skills. The latter are skills that you've learned through education , formal and informal training, and hands-on instruction. They're more technical , and can typically be measured. Examples of hard skills include machine operation, computer programming, typing, and accounting.

Soft skills are the opposite - they involve more innate, natural traits and interpersonal abilities that can span across all professions and industries. And unlike hard skills, soft skills are difficult to measure.

Why are soft skills important on a resume?

A lot of professionals in your industry likely possess many of the same hard skills that you'll list in your resume. If you're an Accountant, chances are other Accountants are proficient with the accounting software programs you use. If you're a Medical Coder, then you probably have similar, if not the same, technical skills as other Medical Coders. You get the point.

That's why focusing all your energy and resume real estate on your hard skills will make it more difficult to stand out from other job applicants. Your soft skills, however, can provide you with more of an edge.

Outside of job applications, soft skills can also help you to do your job better. They can enable you to be more proficient with time management, stress management, conflict resolution, and teamwork. If you can demonstrate that you have a strong set of soft skills that will help you to excel at your job, that can not only help you to land your dream role but could even give you an advantage when it's time for a promotion or a raise.

Top seven soft skills for your resume

As you sit down and start thinking about your soft skills, you might wonder which skills employers find the most valuable. The good news is that there are some soft skills that almost every employer wants to see on a job candidate's resume. Below are the top seven prized soft skills for your resume.

1.     Leadership

Employers are always looking for candidates who possess leadership skills, so including these soft skills in your resume is important. That's especially true for companies that prefer to promote from within. When companies hire candidates with proven leadership skills, they know that those employees will be more likely to align themselves with the firm's goals and mission.

It's important to also note that leadership is not a singular skill. It is instead a skill set that encompasses a variety of abilities that can help you to inspire others, motivate them, and build productive relationships. Some of the most desirable leadership skills include authenticity, emotional intelligence, the ability to mentor others, conflict resolution, confidence, and many other key traits and talents.

Related Post : These 14 Leadership Traits Can Fuel Your Career Success

2.     Adaptability

Many of today's employers prioritize job candidates who can demonstrate their ability to adapt to change. While technological change is obviously proceeding at a rapid pace, nearly every other aspect of business is also evolving before our very eyes. Employers need to know that you have the capacity to roll with those changes and adapt to new situations and challenges.

Adaptability skills can include everything from flexibility and consistency to patience, optimism, and a desire to learn new things. Expressing these skills in your resume can help to demonstrate your adaptability and resilience.

3.     Communication

Effective communication is essential in every industry, so make sure that you accurately convey those skills to prospective employers. Depending on the job role you're seeking, there are many distinct communication skills that you can highlight in your resume to deliver that narrative. These include verbal, written, and nonverbal communication skills, expertise in negotiation, conflict resolution, public speaking, presentation, active listening, and more.

4.     Problem-solving

Are you a critical or analytical thinker who excels at resolving problems? If so, then employers want to know about your problem-solving skills. Every business has a need for problem solvers, so make sure that you highlight key skills like risk assessment, research abilities, resourcefulness, and decision-making in your resume.

5.     Collaboration

Teamwork is an important part of any company's success, so your ability to collaborate with others may play a significant role in determining whether you can land your dream job. These skills include traits and abilities like trustworthiness, active communication, reliability, and respect for others. To highlight this skill, focus on including at least one notable achievement in your work experience section that demonstrates how your ability to collaborate provided value for a previous employer.

6.     Time management

The ability to effectively manage time is a core element of employee success and productivity - which is why employers universally value time management skills. Like other skills on this list, time management involves the use of a variety of soft skills, including organizational abilities, planning, goal setting, management of stress, and a talent for being able to prioritize tasks. Including these soft skills in your resume can be a terrific way to demonstrate your ability to productively provide real value for an employer.

Related Post: How to be More Productive: 10 Productivity Tips

7.     Attention to detail

A detail-oriented mindset can be critical for ensuring that work is done properly the first time. Employers want candidates who are focused on details, because they know that those job seekers will be likely to do more than just go through the motions each day. If your mindset emphasizes attention to detail, your work is likely to reflect that focus. Detail-oriented job seekers are often self-aware, able to concentrate on tasks, and committed to accuracy.

What soft skills do you have? How do you identify them?

Identifying your own soft skills will require some introspection. To start this process, think about the times you've excelled at your job, noting the situation and the outcome. What skills did you use to help you accomplish your goal? What praise and feedback did you receive?

You'll also want to think about any conversations you've had with managers about your overall performance. Chances are, they've praised your soft skills or perhaps identified some soft skills you can improve.

If you're still having trouble identifying your soft skills, consider reaching out to coworkers, managers, or mentors. Ask them about your soft skills and specific instances in which these skills shined.

How do you develop soft skills?

Although soft skills are typically abilities that seem natural, there are still ways to develop them. Here are a few strategies you can employ:

Seek advice: Ask your manager, co-worker, or even a friend to help you improve a particular soft skill. For example, if your co-workers seem to have no issue hitting deadlines and you find yourself struggling, ask about their time management strategies. See if you can implement any of their advice into your daily routine.

Find ways to practice: With many soft skills, the best way to develop them is to simply practice. If you want to become a better leader, seek out additional leadership opportunities. If you want to become a more creative problem solver, take on projects that require creative problem solving. The key is to develop a habit of using desired soft skills whenever you can, to hone them over time.

Take an online course: If you're struggling to improve your soft skills on your own, you can find an online course that can help. Udemy , for example, offers online courses on just about every topic, including productivity, leadership, stress management, creativity, and even self-esteem.

Work with a mentor or career coach: If you don't feel comfortable eliciting the help of your managers or co-workers, consider finding an outside mentor or career coach to help you assess and improve your soft skills.

Overall, a good rule of thumb is to be more mindful. For example, if you'd like to get better at managing your stress, take a moment in high-stress situations to sit back, breathe, and assess the situation. If you want to be better at organization, set aside 30 minutes each day to organize your physical and digital space. That mindfulness can ensure that you remain self-aware and focused on your developmental goals.

How do you show off your soft skills on your resume?

Now that you've identified your soft skills, it's time to make them shine on your resume. Remember, correctly highlighting these skills can help you to stand out from other job applicants.

One of the best ways to display your soft skills is to add a skills section to your resume. In this section, you don't necessarily want to list every single soft skill you've identified. Instead, look at the job you're applying for and take note of any skills highlighted in the role description. Make sure to focus on demonstrating those soft skills in your resume.

Then, as you assess your skills section on your resume, ask yourself these four questions:

Are these skills up to date? Make sure you keep this section updated as you participate in new training, attend seminars, and complete new projects.

Are these skills unique to me? You don't want to list the same generic soft skills as everyone else; the point is to stand apart from the crowd.

Is my skills section easy to read? Your skills section should be clear, scannable, and easy to digest. 

Can I support these skills with examples? Make sure you'll feel confident talking about your soft skills during a job interview.

In addition to your resume's skills section, you can also weave evidence of your soft skills into the job descriptions within your work history section. For example, if you want to prove your leadership skills, you can note that you have experience managing a department of 15 employees. If you want to highlight your negotiation skills, mention your biggest sales with clients, using real numbers to quantify the results you achieved.

Related Post : 47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

Last thoughts 

While it's tempting to focus only on job-specific hard skills in your resume, it's important to remember that other candidates will almost certainly have the same type of skills. That's why it's vital to include soft skills in your resume too, to help separate you from those rival job seekers. By including these seven key soft skills that most employers are looking for, you can increase your chances of landing the interviews you need to land a fantastic job.

If you're still not sure how to effectively include soft skills in your resume and differentiate your candidacy from your rivals, get your free resume review today.

This article was originally written by Carson Kohler and has been updated by Ken Chase. 

Recommended reading:

The Top 10 Job Skills Employers Want

“Will Robots Take My Job?” 4 Marketable Skills AI Can't Take from You

Why Hard and Soft Skills Are So Important for Your Resume

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

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What Are Soft Skills at Work?

What are soft skills examples, why are soft skills important, what soft skills do employers look for, how to improve your soft skills, including soft skills on a resume, what careers are right for you, based on your soft skills quiz, what are soft skills definition and examples.

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Table of Contents

Soft skills are non-technical skills that describe how you work and interact with others. Unlike hard skills , they’re not necessarily something you’ll learn in a course, like data analytics or programming skills . Instead, they’re something you often build through experience. Soft skills reflect your communication style, work ethic , and work style. 

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Soft skills are interpersonal skills that describe how you work and interact with other people. These skills apply to all kinds of jobs and careers. For example, a professor and an investment manager can both be great communicators and have exceptional leadership skills, although how those skills translate into their professions can look quite different. No matter what field you’re interested in, these skills won’t just come in handy — they’ll be integral to your success at a company.

These skills generally fall into a few different categories:

• Communication skills
• Leadership skills
• Teamwork skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Time management skills

Communication Skills

Communication skills describe how you interact with the people you work with — from your boss to your friendly colleague to an important client. These skills are vital in getting your ideas across in a meeting, sharing status updates on a project, or effectively negotiating with a coworker about how to move forward. Some soft communication skills include:

• Public speaking
• Negotiation
• Conflict resolution
• Verbal communication
• Friendliness
• Empathetic listening

Teaming@BCG

Practice effective communication skills to collaborate with team members and a client.

Avg. Time: 1-2 hours

Skills you’ll build: Communication, project management, prioritization, cross-functional collaboration

Leadership Skills

Leadership skills are essential in all types of roles, even if you’re not directly managing someone. Adding these skills to a resume shows your potential employer that you’re confident in taking charge and leading by example. Some soft leadership skills include:

• Decision-making
• Adaptability
• Team-building
• Reliability

Teamwork Skills

No one works in a silo, even if they’re on a team of one. Teamwork skills are critical in any job to work harmoniously with stakeholders across projects, teams, and departments. These skills aren’t just about getting along, though. It’s also essential to know when to disagree and push back to get the best result. Some soft teamwork skills include:

• Rapport-building
• Respectfulness

Problem-Solving Skills

Companies hire people to help them solve problems and find the best solutions. No matter what role you’re taking on, you’ll need to think creatively, analytically, and logically to understand why problems are happening and how to solve the issue.

Whether it’s understanding why there’s not enough traffic to a website or how to raise students’ test scores, problems in the workplace are everywhere, and companies want new hires to bring fresh and innovative ways to solve them. Problem-solving skills include:

• Communication
• Creative thinking

Critical Thinking Skills

These skills help people identify the root cause of an issue. Critical thinkers analyze, research, identify, and think outside the box to make sense of information. At work, critical thinking helps people solve problems and challenge preconceived notions to help create the best path forward. Some soft critical thinking skills include:

• Analytical skills
• Questioning

Time Management Skills

Time management skills ensure employees perform their jobs efficiently and productively. While time management is essential to any role, these skills are critical in hybrid and remote work environments. Employers want to know they can trust employees to get things done even if they’re not physically in an office with them. Some time management skills include:

• Prioritization
• Detail-oriented

“We all have soft skills because they are part of who we are,” Sabrina Cortes, resume writer, says. “Top soft skills are teamwork, attention to detail , time management, organization, verbal and written communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, adaptability/flexibility, problem-solving/conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills. … Unfortunately, all too often, these personality traits are overlooked [by applicants]. But they play a role in each job out there.”

Of course, some skills are more applicable to specific jobs than others. Here are some examples of how soft skills can be applied to specific industries:

Soft skills are important because they make you a successful employee and a helpful team member — and they’re a crucial part of helping you land a job. 

“Employers want to see how well [potential employees] work with people and can think beyond their learning,” Joanne Rosen, Chief Operations Officer at Write Choice Resumes, explains.

Employers look for soft skills because these skills are helpful indicators of how successful a new hire will be. According to a Leadership IQ study, 89% of new hire failures were a result of poor soft skills, not a lack of technical failures. New hires were more likely to fail because they lacked soft skills like coachability, emotional intelligence, and motivation. Only 11% of new hire failures were a result of technical incompetence. 

This trend especially rings true for entry-level hires. Because entry-level applicants don’t have advanced technical skills yet, having good soft skills can set you apart from the competition.

>>MORE: Learn what careers are right for you based on your skillset with our career aptitude test .

Not all soft skills are created equal in employers’ eyes. According to a 2023 survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the top skills employers look for are problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a team.  

“In my experience, it’s valuable [for students] to convey these three key soft skills: time management, communications, and customer service,” 5X Certified Resume Writer Virginia Franco says. “They are most relevant to entry-level success across diverse industries and job functions.”

Now you know — soft skills are a major way to stand out in the job search when you’re just starting out. But how do you start to improve yours?

Go Out of Your Way to Work With Others

If you’re like me, group projects are the bane of your academic career. Yet they’re a valuable way to build soft skills and experience that you can talk about in interviews. Proactively seek out group settings when working on projects, whether you’re in the classroom or for an extracurricular. Even if the project takes a little longer than it would have on your own, you’ll practice skills like problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and feedback. If you’re lucky, you’ll even build conflict resolution skills !

Practice Responsive Soft Skills

Soft skills aren’t just what you bring to the working world, but how you respond to it. Start with how you communicate with others. It’s not just about what you’re saying to another person, but how you listen and process what they’re saying back to you. 

Instead of just hearing the words someone is saying, make a conscious effort to truly understand their perspective, emotions, and underlying needs. Give them your full attention, maintain eye contact, and provide verbal and non-verbal cues to show that you are engaged in the conversation. By actively listening , you can develop a deeper understanding of others, build trust, and respond in a more thoughtful and empathetic manner.

Self-Reflect

Finally, the best way to work on your soft skills is to reflect on your progress. Soft skills can be a lot harder to measure than hard skills because they’re often unquantifiable. Instead, you can track your progress by thinking of examples of when you have (or haven’t!) used your soft skills when working on a school project, or in an internship , volunteer opportunity, part-time job, extracurricular, or any other experience you might talk about in an interview. Where are your gaps? Could you have been a more effective communicator? Were you a great negotiator? What can you do differently next time?

Because employers are looking for soft skills in the entry-level hiring process, it’s crucial for you not only to include them, but to know the right ones to include.

What Soft Skills Should I Include on My Resume?

One of the best ways to know what skills to include on your resume is to look at the job description. Just as you’d include hard skills based on a job description’s requirements, reading what a company is looking for can help determine what soft skills to include. 

>>Forage find: Unlike hard skills, the exact soft skills an employer is looking for might not be as spelled out. Look for clues on what kinds of workers they’re looking for — Team players? Independent? Self-motivated? — to understand what skills to include.

Is the company looking for someone who can handle communicating big ideas with customers and clients? Demonstrate those communication skills. Does it want someone strategic who can tackle big issues? Show that you’re an excellent problem-solver.

How to Include Soft Skills on a Resume

Resume experts agree that you don’t necessarily need a dedicated skills section to flaunt your soft skills on a resume.

“Soft skills need to be demonstrated, not listed,” Rosen says. “Example: Rescued at-risk account by communicating with the client about needs and creating innovative customer-facing solutions.”

By using the phrases “communicating” and” “creating innovative, customer-facing solutions,” the candidate shows off their communication skills and problem-solving skills.

>>MORE: How to Write a Resume

You can also use a professional summary to flex these skills.

“I like to mix soft skills with hard skills,” Wendi Weiner , attorney and resume expert, says. “You can include a sentence in your professional summary that speaks to some of your soft skills. Example: ‘Record of leading projects from concept to completion through strong problem solving, team building, and solid time management.’ The hard skill in this sentence is project management, and it’s leveraged by the soft skills of problem-solving, team building, and time management.”

If you do include a skills section on your resume, you can use the same section to list both hard and soft skills . It’s a great way to save on space while sharing a well-rounded picture of your abilities.

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• Behavioral Interviews

Answering Problem-Solving Interview Questions: Tips and Examples

Problem-solving skills are difficult to describe and quantify: they’re a combination of different hard and soft skills such as logical inference, technical knowledge, adaptability and innovation, leadership potential, decision-making, productivity, and collaboration.

All are crucial for developing expertise and delivering results at work — especially when the going gets tough.

And because problem-solving is so important, you’re almost guaranteed to get asked about it in a job interview. Read on, and make sure no problem-solving question catches you off guard.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• How to answer problem-solving job interview questions
• Types of problem-solving questions
• Why recruiters ask these questions and what your answers might reveal
• Sample answers for the main types of problem-solving questions

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How to Answer Problem-Solving Job Interview Questions

Here’s how to understand the intention behind problem-solving interview questions and create an informative answer that will highlight your expertise and potential.

Understand the problem-solving question and why recruiters ask it

Hiring managers and recruiters want to know how you identify roadblocks, analyze information, and overcome challenges. These challenges can vary from specific, technical issues to more general issues like improving company processes or handling interpersonal relationships.

To put these skills to the test, recruiters use “problem-solving” job interview questions, also known as analytical questions. Here are some common ones:

• Tell me about a situation where you had to solve a difficult problem.
• Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
• Describe a time when you didn’t know how to solve a problem. What did you do?
• Describe how you approach a complex or difficult problem.

Here’s what these questions help recruiters discover:

Your adaptability and innovation

Are you an out-of-the-box thinker who’s open to new ideas and who can handle uncharted waters easily?

Efficiency and productivity

Are your problem-solving skills contributing to the team’s performance, removing bottlenecks, smoothing out processes, and keeping projects on track?

Collaboration and communication

Are you successfully collaborating with others to find solutions? Are you handling people-related problems effectively?

Decision-making

Can you efficiently evaluate different options and reach a decision independently? Can you make sound decisions to minimize risks and maximize benefits and opportunities?

Leadership potential

Are your problem-solving skills so good that they open up new opportunities for you to move in the leadership direction ?

Problem-solving interview questions are not tied to a specific role and industry. Mastering your problem-solving skills will help you stand out from the competition and be more successful in your role, whatever it may be.

And if you need help with answering other common interview questions, sign up for our free course !

Reflect on your thought process

Be mindful of your thought processes when you face a difficult problem.

Is your initial reaction to panic or are you calm and enthusiastic to tackle it? Is the problem stopping you from focusing on everything else you’re working on? Do you look at the problem as a whole or do you break it down?

Understanding how you think and approach the problem will help you know yourself and improve your problem-solving skills, but it’ll also make it easier to answer these tricky questions during an interview.

Be specific

Tailor your answers to problem-solving interview questions so that you cover specific details, actions, and skills relevant to the position. If possible, list the results and share lessons learned from an experience you’re describing.

We’re not saying you should lie and make up a story about your problem-solving skills for each position you apply for; remember that this is a broad set of skills and you surely have something relevant from your past experience that you can bring up.

💡 For example, if you’re a Customer Service Representative applying for the same role in another company, you can speak about how you solved a customer’s problem or how you helped the team switch to a new CRM tool and transfer all the data.

💡 If you’re applying for a leadership role in the customer service field, you can speak about how you handled an interpersonal problem within a team or how you spotted bottlenecks and modified processes to make the team more efficient.

💡 If you’re moving to a Sales position, you can highlight your selling experience and talk about a time when you had to solve a customer’s problem and you managed to upsell them in the process.

Follow up with clear outcomes

Prove you have outstanding problem-solving skills by listing clear outcomes for every problem you solved. They can be quantitative or qualitative.

💡 Fixed a process? Say that it improved team productivity by X%.

💡 Handled a difficult client? If they became a VIP customer later on, mention it.

💡 Resolved a conflict? Describe how the experience helped you strengthen the bonds in a team.

💡 Solved a complex technical problem? Say that you got a bonus for it, or that you expanded and improved the existing documentation to help coworkers in the future.

Use the STAR method

Whenever possible, use the STAR (situation-task-action-result) method in your answer:

• (S) ituation: Describe the situation and provide context.
• (T) ask: What tasks you planned on doing to tackle the issue, your contribution.
• (A) ction you took (step-by-step).
• (R) esult of your efforts.

It’ll help you create a well-rounded answer that’s informative and engaging. Plus, using this method to prepare answers in advance will help you memorize the story quickly and easily.

✅ Bear in mind that not every problem-solving interview question can be answered with a STAR method. Some questions will be very specific and will ask for quick and short information about a certain tool or similar. Other questions, the ones beginning with “Give me an example when…” or “Tell me about a time when…” will be the perfect opportunity to use the STAR method.

Also, remember that there’s never a single correct answer to a problem-solving question, just like there usually are multiple solutions to a given problem — a study on the hospitality industry revealed that the most successful problem-solving strategies applied in the workplace were always very specific to given circumstances.

Questions about your problem-solving skills are just one group of the standard interview questions, you can be almost sure you will get asked. Prepare for other interview “classics” with our dedicated guides:

• Tell Me About Yourself: Sample Answers
• Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?
• Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?
• What Are Your Strenghts?
• What Is Your Greatest Weakness?
• How Do You Handle Conflict?
• Why Should We Hire You?
• Why Do You Want to Work Here?

If prepping for a video interview, learn what to expect from this guide: Video Interviewing Tips & Tricks

And if you’re interested in interviewing for specific positions, see:

• Sales Interview Questions and Answers
• Customer Service Interview Questions and Answers
• Customer Service Manager Interview Questions and Answers
• Behavioral Interview Questions for Customer Service

Types of Problem-Solving Job Interview Questions

1. general problem-solving questions.

These questions aim to discover your general approach to problems and challenges.

How do you approach complex problems?

Interviewers want to know how you approach the process of solving complex problems. Do you jump straight into it or do you take a step back, break the problem down into manageable components, analyze the info you have, and then dive in?

Can you provide an example of a challenging issue you’ve encountered and how you resolved it?

Can you assess a situation and find the most appropriate solution? Can you handle the pressure? Do you take the lead during difficult times? Are you able to take responsibility for the outcomes?

This question is more specific than the previous one, so make sure you think about a situation in advance and prepare your answer using the STAR method.

Big Interview’s Answer Builder can help you shape your answer. You’ll be able to list and filter the points you’d like to mention, add details and rearrange the order to create a compelling story.

Plus, you’ll get bite-sized tips on how to answer the most common interview questions while you’re in the Builder.

How do you prioritize multiple tasks when faced with tight deadlines?

Recruiters want to know how you set criteria based on which you’ll set priorities, how and if you juggle between multiple tasks, and how you communicate and collaborate with other people involved.

General problem-solving sample answer

“Tell me about a time when you faced a difficult problem at work. How did you solve it?”

Behavioral questions about problem-solving

Behavioral questions ask for specific situations from your past in which you displayed a certain behavior. Based on it, recruiters hope to predict how you’ll perform in the future.

Tell me about a time when your team faced a problem and you helped to find a solution

This one’s asked to assess your teamwork and cooperation skills in tough situations.

Interestingly, a 2015 study on problem-solving in the workplace showed that when it comes to expertise-related problems, employees rarely relied on trial-and-error or information retrieval as modes of problem-solving.

Instead, they mostly relied on help from others, that is, their coworkers who they believed were experts on the subject matter.

This puts emphasis on the importance of teamwork and collaboration in problem-solving. And you certainly noticed how easier it gets to solve a problem (or brainstorm a new idea) as a group, when different individuals bring fresh, unique ideas to the table.

So, recruiters want to know if you’d be cooperative and open to a teamwork experience, and these factors might hint at how you’ll fit in with the team.

Describe a situation in which you received criticism for your solution to a problem. How did you handle that?

This one checks how you handle feedback and criticism — it’s challenging, but it’s essential for growth.

In your answer, make sure you depict a situation in which you demonstrated that growth mindset and the ability to see that taking criticism is not a sign of weakness (or a personal attack on you) but a unique opportunity to learn something new.

Can you provide an example of when you had to collaborate with a team to solve a work-related problem?

Similarly to the first question in this group, this one aims to see how you perform in a team and solve problems collectively.

According to a study , in a team, task completion can be independent , when each team member completes their own activities, sequential , when activities go from one team member to another, reciprocal , when activities are done back-and-forth between team members, or intensive , when all team members work on activities and problem-solving simultaneously.

Recruiters want to get to know more about your ideal teamwork process model and how you connect with others to solve problems.

Your answer will tell them if you’re a good team problem-solver, team player, and if you’re able to give and share credit, as well as take responsibility if something goes wrong.

Behavioral problem-solving sample answer

“Can you describe a situation where you had to use your problem-solving skills to make a decision?”

Situational problem-solving questions

Situational problem-solving questions put you in a hypothetical situation, present a problem, and ask for your opinion/solution.

Even if you haven’t encountered a similar situation in the past, it will help you to draw parallels from your experience to create answers to these questions.

How would you respond if a high-priority project was suddenly delayed, jeopardizing the deadline?

Your answer to this question will tell recruiters about your flexibility, time and task organization, prioritization, as well as how you handle pressure.

An ideal employee will be able to think quickly and adapt to unforeseen circumstances, all the while remaining calm and composed. You’ll want to aim at displaying these qualities in your answer.

Imagine a scenario where your manager was unavailable, but a client had an urgent issue – what would you do?

Taking the lead and taking calculated risks shows that a person has outstanding problem-solving skills and is not afraid to take initiative, which shows leadership potential.

Your answer to this question needs to demonstrate your ability to quickly analyze information, weigh pros and cons of a situation, and make decisions on the spot. This is especially important if you’re applying for leadership positions, like a team leader or a project manager.

If you encountered a high-stress situation that required you to stay calm and focused, how would you handle it?

Recruiters and hiring managers want to assess your ability to handle stress, make rational decisions, and maintain a focused approach in tricky, high-pressure situations.

Make sure to provide them with relevant examples from your past that will paint a picture of your skills and abilities. This is especially relevant for high-pressure positions such as police officers, lawyers, financial analysts, and similar.

Situational problem-solving sample answer

“Imagine you’re faced with a tight deadline, but you’ve encountered a significant roadblock. How would you handle this situation?”

Technical questions about problem-solving

Technical problem-solving questions are based on the technical knowledge that underlies each role. They aim to check your expertise or the means by which you connect the dots or obtain information if you don’t possess it.

Will you sort through the documentation to find a solution? Or is your first reaction to recall a past experience? Perhaps you prefer connecting with an expert or a coworker with more experience than you. Or you’re the type of person to synthesize your existing knowledge and try to find a solution through trial and error. Maybe you’ll turn to a book or a course? Whatever it is, recruiters would like to know.

There are many ways to solve these problems and your preferred strategies will give recruiters insight into how you think and act.

Examples of technical questions about problem-solving are:

• How would you assess and resolve a performance issue in a web application?
• Describe your approach to troubleshooting a networking issue that spans multiple devices.
• How would you approach debugging a piece of software with limited documentation?
• How would you deal with an angry VIP customer if your boss was away?
• What would you do if you noticed a decline in the ROI of your team?

💡 Bear in mind that, with the rapid development of AI, the majority of technical tasks might be overtaken by robots in the future. That’s why it’s important that you work on your non-technical skills, too. Employers are already admitting that problem-solving skills are the second most important skill they’re looking for. For this reason, researchers are working hard to find and develop frameworks for helping people improve their problem-solving capabilities — you can read more about it in this paper on problem-solving skills among graduate engineers .

Technical problem-solving sample answer

“How would you troubleshoot an error in a software product that has been released to customers?”

✅ Pro tip: Practicing in advance is the only way to make sure your answer is flawless! The Mock Interview Tool will help you record your answer and get instant feedback on its quality and delivery. From power words and your pace of speech to “ummm” counter and eye contact, you’ll get help on how to improve in no time!

Our tool helped AJ land his first job in tech and get 7 job offers in the process . “I think Big Interview was super helpful in that aspect of having canned answers for every possible scenario and being in the moment of answering those questions.”, said AJ.

Problem-Solving Interview Questions: Popular Opinions vs. Expert Advice

Now that we covered different types of problem-solving questions and how to answer them, we decided to dive into popular forums and see what job-seekers have to say on this topic. We picked pieces of advice that resonated with the community and confronted them with expert-backed best practices. Let’s see where we stand.

IndianaJones Jr on Reddit said : “If I was an interviewer asking this question, I would expect a personalized answer relevant to yourself, not to specific projects. At least that’s my interpretation.

“What are your experiences in problem-solving?” 

Sample answer: Generally, when I’m working on a project I find it’s easier to start at the end and work backwards. I use that to get a broad strokes idea of where my work needs to take me on any particular project and then I head in that direction. I find that when I get to specific problems I can get too stuck on using tried and true methods so I try to encourage myself to use out-of-the-box solutions. For example [your example here]…”

Career expert comments:

The “bones” of this sample answer are solid. It puts emphasis on breaking down the candidate’s thought process and displays patterns through which the candidate solves problems and learns along the way. However, the most important part of the answer — the actual example of a candidate’s problem-solving skills put to practice — remains a placeholder. Remember, the more specific you get in your answer, the better the impression you make on the interviewer. So here, I recommend paying equal attention to a specific situation in which you solved a problem and using the STAR method to tell that story.

Ambitious_Tell_4852 , when discussing the question “Give an example of a challenge you faced and how you overcame it,” said: 

“Clearly, that is the standard trick question designed for a prospective new hire to tell a prospective employer about his/her professional weaknesses. Oldest “negative Nelli’’ question imaginable during the interview process. Always keep your answer thorough and positive albeit sickeningly sugar-coated! 😁”

This is, straight-out, a bad piece of advice. If an interviewer wants to hear about your weaknesses, they will ask “What is your greatest weakness?” 

A question about overcoming a challenge isn’t a trick question at all. I’d argue it’s actually an opportunity to share some of your proudest wins. But when it comes to answering this question, it’s true that your answers do need to be thorough and positive. This doesn’t mean you need to sugar-coat anything, though. Interviewers don’t want to hear you downplaying your challenges. On the contrary, they want to hear you speak about them honestly and explain what you learned from them. And being able to do so puts a healthy, positive spin on the situation. To put it shortly: provide a real example from your past, answer this question honestly, and emphasize the results and lessons learned. 

Here’s an opinion from a hiring manager, Hugh on Quora, about how to answer a question about a time you needed to solve a problem:

“It really doesn’t matter what the problem you describe is or how you solved it. What I am looking/listening for is 1) the size of the problem (the bigger, the better, a broken shoelace before going out on a date is not an impressive problem) and 2) a step-by-step process to a satisfactory solution (if suddenly all variables fell into place does not show me that you solved the problem — you were just there when it solved itself).

I am also looking/listening for an example of how you solve a problem after you are hired. I may have to explain it to my superiors, and I would like to know that I have a complete and accurate story to tell.”

Career expert comments:  

A good piece of advice from someone who has first-hand hiring experience. When talking about problem-solving, a detailed description of your process is key. The only thing I wouldn’t agree with is having to choose a “big” problem. If you do have experience solving a big problem, that’s great. But sometimes you won’t have a major problem to talk about, and it largely depends on your level of experience and your position. So pick a relevant difficulty, even if it’s not that big, in which you displayed skills relevant to the role you’re applying for.

• Problem-solving skills encompass your logical inference, technical knowledge, adaptability and innovation, leadership potential, decision-making, productivity, and collaboration.
• Because these skills are important in the workplace, there’s a variety of problem-solving interview questions recruiters will ask to assess you.
• Some of them include behavioral, situational, or technical problem-solving questions.
• In order to answer these questions, you need to be aware of your thought processes when faced with a problem.
• In your answer, be as specific as you can and use the STAR format whenever possible.
• Make sure to highlight outcomes, results, or lessons learned.
• As always, the best strategy is to anticipate these questions and prepare rough answers in advance. Including practicing your answer so you’re confident for your interview.

____________________

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• Learn how to answer tricky questions about conflict resolution in the workplace.

How can I improve my problem-solving skills?

Stay in the loop with new technologies and trends. Accept challenges and problems as a way to grow, don’t panic over them. Acquire a systematic approach to analyzing problems, break them down into smaller components which will help you discover root causes and devise a solution plan. Practice logical thinking, evaluating evidence, and staying objective. And give yourself time. Perhaps not surprisingly, studies suggest that the more business experience you have, the better you become at problem-solving.

Are there specific resources available to practice problem-solving interview questions?

There’s a variety of resources available to you, such as courses and Youtube tutorials, Facebook/LinkedIn groups, forums such as Reddit and Quora, books, or online platforms like Big Interview. If you’re trying to develop technical problem-solving skills, you might benefit from relevant platforms’ knowledge bases or YT channels; but if you’re looking specifically for how to answer interview questions, platforms like Big Interview are the way to go.

How should I handle a question about a problem-solving scenario I have not encountered before?

Don’t be afraid to ask additional questions for clarification. If you’ve never dealt with this problem before, be honest about it but answer how you would solve the problem if you were faced with it today. Break the problem down into manageable steps, try to recall a similar situation from your own experience that could help you draw parallels, and propose several different solutions.

Can I talk about my problem-solving experiences derived from non-professional settings such as student projects?

Yes, especially if you’re a recent graduate or a candidate with limited experience. You can use experiences and examples from student projects, extracurricular activities, and you can even use examples from your personal life, as long as you present them in a professional manner and connect them to the position you’re applying for. Remember to highlight the results, as well as the skills that helped you solve the problem and that are relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid when answering problem-solving questions during an interview?

The most common mistake is not preparing in advance which causes rambling. You need to make sure that your answer is informative and well-structured, and that you’re not only presenting a solution but also laying down the steps to display your logical reasoning. Make sure not to forget to give credit to teammates if they contributed to solving the problem you chose to talk about. Finally, for a coherent and informative presentation, make sure you use the STAR method.

What can I do if I don’t know the answer to a technical problem-solving question in an interview?

Handle it professionally. You can always try to reach a conclusion by breaking down the problem and thinking out loud to show your thinking mechanism. Draw parallels between the problem at hand and another similar problem you encountered before. Lay down possible solutions, even if you’re not sure they’ll work, and be transparent — feel free to tell the recruiter you’re not sure how to answer it, but make sure you emphasize that you’re open to learning.

Can I ask for help or guidance from the interviewer during a problem-solving question?

Avoid asking for help directly, but ask for clarification in case something is unclear or if you need additional information. Sometimes, the interviewer will take the initiative and provide you with hints to encourage you and see how you think.

How can I demonstrate creativity and resourcefulness when answering problem-solving questions?

It’s all about storytelling! Preparing in advance will provide some space for displaying your creativity. You can do it by making fun analogies or drawing parallels from well-known situations; or making pop-culture references.

Maja Stojanovic

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