Hard skills are part of the skill set that is required for a job. Employers typically require both soft skills and hard skills when considering applicants for a job.

Types of Hard Skills

Hard skills include the specific knowledge and abilities required for success in a job. Examples of hard skills include computer programming, web design, typing, nursing, finance, electrical, accounting, finance, writing, mathematics, legal and other quantifiable skills that are included in the requirements for a job.

These types of skills are learned and can be defined, evaluated and measured. They are most commonly used during the hiring and interview process to compare candidates for employment.  Hard skills are the qualifications required to work successfully at a job.

Conversely, soft skills are attributes and personality traits that affect interpersonal interactions and while different, are also as important as hard skills in the workforce. These include characteristics such as leadership, empathy, communication, etiquette and more skills that aren’t as quantifiable as hard skills.

Focus on Your Most Relevant Skills

When job searching, it’s important to include the skills the employer is seeking in your resume and job applications. The skills (both hard and soft) will be listed in the requirements section of job postings, and help wanted ads.

Highlight the skills that are the closest match to the job requirements in your job application materials. Here's how to match your qualifications to a job.

Hard Skills / Soft Skills

Here's more information on the difference between hard skills and soft skills, employment skills listed by job, and lists of skills for job applications, resumes and cover letters.

Read More:Skill Set | List of Soft Skills | Top Skills Employers Seek in Job Applicants | Job Specific Skills