Tips for Listing Problem-Solving Skills on Resumes

How to Feature Problem-solving Skills in a Resume

Sure, you can just state “problem-solving skills” in the skills section of your resume. However, a hiring manager is unlikely to take notice if you leave it at that. How can you make a hiring manager believe you when you list these skills?

First of all, use some of the specific skills listed above. Just listing “problem-solving skills” is such a wide umbrella that it can be difficult to determine what element of problem-solving you’re good at. When it comes to solving complex problems, it’s good to emphasize skills that highlight specific aspects of the problem-solving process.

Additionally, include these skills throughout your resume and cover letter. If you have good communication skills, for example, you can include this as one of your key skills in the skills section,, discuss responsibilities or achievements where you’ve used it in your work history and mention them in your cover letter. By sprinkling references to these high-quality skills all throughout your resume and cover letter, you’re more likely to ensure that you come off as truly effective in these areas.

It's also a good idea to detail specific types of problems you’ve been able to solve. An individual who is great at solving problems surrounding shipping delays and similar problems may not be as experienced at solving customer service-related concerns, for example. You can include problems you’ve solved in your job descriptions, allowing an interviewer to determine similar problems you might be well-suited to solving.

The best way to show off your problem-solving skill set is to have a strong resume and cover letter that are able to show off all of your skills, not just your problem-solving skills. You can use the cover letter builder from ResumeNerd to make sure your resume both looks sleek and functions appropriately for your job application.