February 28, 2025
In today’s job market, terms like hard skills and technical skills are frequently used in job descriptions, resumes, and interviews. While they are often related, these terms describe distinct types of abilities.
Understanding the differences between hard skills and technical skills can help you craft a stronger resume and present yourself more effectively in interviews.
This guide will explain hard skills vs. technical skills, their key differences, and how to showcase them for career success.
Hard skills are measurable, teachable abilities that you gain through education, training, or experience. They are essential to performing specific tasks in a job and can be objectively assessed.
Technical skills are a subset of hard skills that involve expertise in specific tools, software, or technologies. These skills are often required in fields like IT, engineering, and finance.
| Aspect | Hard Skills | Technical Skills |
| Definition | Broadly measurable abilities gained through training or experience. | Specialized knowledge in specific tools, systems, or technologies. |
| Applicability | Relevant across multiple industries. | Often job-specific or industry-specific. |
| Examples | Public speaking, project management, or budgeting. | Coding, using CRM software, or operating CAD tools. |
| Learning Method | Learned through formal education or on-the-job training. | Acquired through certifications, technical programs, or hands-on experience. |
In many roles, hard skills and technical skills overlap. For example:
Employers value candidates who can combine both types of skills to deliver results effectively.
Divide your skills into categories for better clarity. For example:
Skills:
Showcase how you’ve applied your skills in previous roles.
Example:
“Developed predictive models using Python, improving sales forecasting accuracy by 20%.”
List certifications that validate your technical skills, such as:
Identify the hard and technical skills mentioned in the job posting and match them in your application.
Yes. For instance, programming is both a hard skill and a technical skill because it’s measurable and involves specific technologies.
Employers may use skills assessments, technical interviews, or case studies to evaluate your abilities.
Both are equally important. The relevance depends on the job. For example, technical skills might be critical in IT, while general hard skills like communication may carry more weight in management roles.
No. Focus on skills relevant to the job you’re applying for. Tailoring your resume ensures you stand out to recruiters.
While hard skills encompass broad, measurable abilities, technical skills focus on specific tools and technologies. By identifying and showcasing both types of skills strategically, you can demonstrate your value to potential employers and excel in your career.