Definition

Hard skills are the specific, teachable abilities you need to perform a job. They’re the technical know-how and practical knowledge you’ve picked up through education, training, or experience. Think of them as the tools in your professional toolkit that you can measure and quantify.

Use Case

Employers look for hard skills to ensure you can handle the technical aspects of a role. They’re often the first filter in the job application process. Hard skills are used to carry out specific tasks in your job, whether it’s coding a website, balancing books, or operating machinery. They’re the skills that make you qualified for a particular position.

Example

Tom, a graphic designer, showcased his proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, UX/UI design, and HTML/CSS on his CV. These hard skills landed him an interview at a top marketing agency. During the interview, he demonstrated his expertise by walking through a recent project, explaining his design process and the technical challenges he overcame.

Remember, while soft skills might help you fit in, it’s your hard skills that prove you can do the job. Keep your hard skills sharp and up-to-date, as they’re often the first thing employers look for. In today’s fast-paced job market, continuous learning and skill development are key to staying competitive.