CV skills examples with evidence

A skills list is stronger when the rest of the CV shows how you used each skill. Select the skills that match the vacancy and your experience. Do not select everything suggested by a builder.

Separate practical skills from general strengths

Practical skills describe work you can do: checking delivery notes, entering invoices, using a till or preparing cleaning solutions according to instructions. General strengths describe how you work: teamwork, communication and organisation.

Both can be relevant, but a vague list of strengths without examples is difficult to assess. Software, tools and equipment should be named only if you have genuinely used them. Being willing to learn a system is not the same as being proficient.

Use examples from your own tasks

A warehouse worker might support ‘stock accuracy’ with ‘Checked item codes against pick lists before packing’. A retail assistant could support ‘customer communication’ with ‘Explained product options and referred returns to a supervisor’.

For care work, only describe activities within your actual training and responsibilities. For hospitality, examples might involve organising preparation tasks or maintaining hygiene during service. Office evidence might include checking records before entry or maintaining an appointment diary.

Teamwork: coordinated a handover with colleagues.
Organisation: prepared tools and materials before a shift.
Attention to detail: checked quantities against a document.
Communication: passed clear information to the next shift.

Be specific about languages and licences

State a language level you can honestly support, such as conversational or fluent. Do not claim fluency just because you can manage a greeting. If the advert asks for written communication, think about your writing as well as speaking.

Licences and regulated qualifications belong in a clear, separate section when relevant. State the category or certificate accurately. A driving licence, forklift training, SIA licence and professional registration are different things; none should be added automatically because of a job title.

Avoid unsupported ratings

A five-star graphic or ‘90% leadership’ score does not explain what you can do. Prefer plain wording and evidence. If you are developing a skill, describe the course or practical activity accurately rather than upgrading yourself to ‘expert’.

Before sending, ask whether you could discuss each skill at an interview. Remove those you cannot support. Keep the remaining list focused on the role, and show the strongest skills in your profile or work-history lines as well.