logical thinking skills for resume

• Resume Templates
• Resume Examples
• Free Resume Builder
• How to Write a Resume
• Resume Format
• Resume Packs
• Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Examples
• Free Cover Letter Generator
• How To Write a Cover Letter
• CV Templates
• CV Examples
• Free CV Maker
• Resume Help
• Cover Letter Help
• Job Interview
• Career Advice

How to Present Critical Thinking Skills on Your Resume

It’s no secret that employers want people who are adaptable, can solve problems, and contribute to the organization’s success. The difference between an employee who can do these things and one who can’t come down to one simple thing: they have great critical thinking skills.

So of course you’d want to tout these on your resume and all over your job application materials too. But there’s one problem. Critical skills aren’t always easy to put on paper. But there are a few ‘workarounds’ this post will show you! 

What Are Critical Thinking Skills?

Critical thinking skills stand for your ability to rationally process information, find connections between ideas, reflect, and draw conclusions. 

As a person with well-developed critical thinking skills, you are good at: 

• Correctly identifying and understanding problems.
• Analyzing information for relevance and accuracy.
• Using available information to formulate effective, empathetic, and rational solutions to problems.
• Identifying logical relationships and patterns between ideas.
• Recognizing complexity in problems and applying appropriately complex thought processes.
• Incorporating new information into their decision-making processes.

You use critical thinking skills in the workplace to solve problems, collaborate with others, resolve conflicts, and complete many leadership tasks.

Why Are Critical Thinking Skills In Demand By Employers

The “ Future of Jobs 2020 ” report states that employers listed critical thinking among the top skills and skill groups that will rise in prominence by 2025. 

In particular, the top skills employers will be searching for among new hires include:

• Analytical skills
• Problem-solving
• Active learning
• Self-management 

Why do these qualities trump hard skills in demand? Simple! Because they enable effective on-the-job learning. 

Employers realize that industries now operate at a breakneck speed with the ‘best practices’ constantly in flux. Respectively, it’s not always easy to find a candidate with the ‘freshest’ set of skills. But it’s easy to nurture such as long as they are good critical-thinkers! For similar reasons, 93% of employers actually state that they value strong critical thinking skills over the candidate’s undergraduate degree.

Additionally, critical thinking has emerged as an essential skill because of the sheer volume of data we encounter. Much of this information is accessed online and often comes from questionable sources. It takes a combination of digital literacy and critical thinking skills for workers to discern which information is reliable, and what can be dismissed as pseudo-science, fake news, marketing propaganda, outdated, or speculative. Employers need workers who can fact-check, evaluate, and process this information effectively.

List of Critical Thinking Skills For Your Resume

Let’s be real: you won’t convince hiring managers by simply stating, ‘I have critical thinking skills’ in your cover letter . It’s a fact you need to demonstrate via your duties and accomplishments. The best way to do so is to break down the “critical thinking skills” group into more concrete sub-skills such as: 

Analysis stands for your ability to effectively deal with the incoming information and translate it into insights. To analyze things properly, you must know how to source information, verify that it is valid, determine which data is relevant, and take an objective approach to draw conclusions based on that information.

Communication

Collaborating with others, discussing problems, and giving and receiving feedback is a critical skill for every hire. Show the employer that you can hold productive exchanges with people who don’t always agree with you, be persuasive, and critically process all the information others are sharing with you. 

Observation

This skill involves having a heightened awareness of your surroundings, understanding what you observe, and knowing the appropriate action to take. For example, they may notice a downward trend in productivity, and take action to address potential staffing issues.

Inference indicates your ability to draw conclusions based on a limited set of data. For example, the manager of a community pool may infer that an unseasonably hot day will mean that more people will order cold drinks from the concession stand. 

Problem-Solving

Problem-solving skills denote your ability to strategize the best solution to a given problem and evaluate the success of that solution after having implemented it. It requires that you can look at a problem objectively, and think through potential solutions in a methodical manner. 

Still not sure how to best frame your problem-solving skills? Check role-specific resume examples our career team has created for some real-life examples. 

How to Improve Critical Thinking Skills

Critical thinking skills are key for effective collaboration, continuous learning, and personal efficiency. If you feel that your skillset could do with an ‘upgrade’, try the following techniques.

• Practice information analysis: When trying to solve a problem, focus on getting all the necessary data first. Then, evaluate which ‘intel’ is accurate, important, fit-for-purpose. Toss other findings and work with what’s left. 
• Learn to give recommendations: Recommendations are synthesized findings — a feasible, data- or experience-based solution. Learn to formulate all your recommendations based on the above. 
• Challenge your biases: Everyone is prone to preconceived notions and assumptions. Unfortunately, these get in the way of critical thinking. Learn to recognize your own biases, and make a dedicated effort to put those aside when you innovate and solve problems.

Critical thinking is one of the most important skills to have to ensure your long-term “hire-ability”. Today, these skills are crucial for working with data, solving emerging market problems, and discerning truth from a growing volume of unproven information, circulating online. Tomorrow, critical thinking will become even more important as the future workforce will be primarily focused on “knowledge work”.

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

you might also like

6 Best Colors For Your Resume (According to Pro Designers)

How to Put an Internship on a Resume: FAQs Answered

How to Put Research on a Resume: Tips and Examples

Resume Skills For Retail: Big List of Examples

90+ Childcare Skills For Your Resume (+ Daycare Worker Resume Example!)

it’s a good thing to know about this because it helps to develop a good resume

Leave a Response Cancel reply

The 6 Best Critical Thinking Skills To Add to Your Resume

3 key takeaways

• Why critical thinking is key for all career levels and industries 
• How to incorporate the six critical thinking skills hiring managers look for into your resume, with real-life examples
• How Teal’s AI Resume Builder helps you incorporate critical thinking skills throughout multiple sections of your resume—quickly and easily

Hiring managers value professionals with both hard and soft skills. Strong contributors can assess a situation and make calculated decisions while considering different points of view. That’s where critical thinking comes in. 

Having strong critical thinking skills on your resume is a strength and helps you stand out as a candidate capable of making informed decisions, solving complex problems, and contributing to team objectives.

But which skills do employers prioritize?

Below, you’ll learn about the six most important critical thinking skills to highlight, including practical ways to include them on your resume. 

What is critical thinking, and why is it important?

The critical thinking process is the ability to think clearly and rationally, connect ideas, and apply logic to situations.

People who develop critical thinking skills and demonstrate them are adept at analyzing facts, identifying biases, and developing rational judgment when dealing with a situation or problem. 

For example, a team working on a go-to-market strategy needs to think about the business goal, brainstorm various options, and analyze which has the highest rate of success. 

Critical thinking is important for every career stage and every industry. You can analyze different perspectives, develop multiple solutions independently and with colleagues, and practice lifelong learning. Strong critical thinkers can identify biases, be curious, and understand how relevant something is to the situation. 

Top 6 critical thinking skills

Here are six common critical thinking skills that hiring managers often look for:

1. Questioning

A questioning mindset is the starting point for critical thinking.

People with a questioning mindset have strong observation skills and can quickly identify new problems and opportunities. Typically, those with a questioning mindset are curious and dive into research as they analyze a situation. 

By regularly asking questions like, "How can we do this better?" or, "What can we learn from this?" you contribute to an environment focused on growth and development.

Showcasing your questioning skills on a resume involves more than just listing "Questioning" under the “Skills” section. You'll want to weave it into various parts of your resume alongside qualifications, impact, and hard skills to demonstrate how you've applied it in real-world situations.

For example you can demonstrate critical thinking skills like this:

Work Experience

• Questioned existing project management methodologies and initiated a review, leading to a 25% increase in project delivery efficiency
• Conducted 12 stakeholder interviews per quarter to understand project requirements, ensuring alignment with organizational goals
• Regularly engaged 10+ team members during meetings to foster open communication, resulting in improved collaboration

Add critical thinking skills to your work experience with Teal

Your resume soft skills , like critical thinking, should be highlighted alongside hard skills, qualifications, and impact to show how you used them for success.

With the Teal AI Resume Builder , you can showcase these key skills in your "Work Experience" section, as part of your awards, in a dedicated "Projects" section, and more. Teal provides customizable sections with built-in guidance so you can create a comprehensive overview of your career—without forgetting any important  sections or details.

2. Creativity

Creativity and critical thinking are usually considered two opposite ends of the skills spectrum—but in reality, the two are deeply interconnected. 

Creativity critical thinking can help you break free from established thought processes, patterns, and biases, which is crucial for evaluating information objectively and making rational decisions.

A creative mindset encourages challenging existing norms and assumptions. This helps foster a growth mindset that aligns with the cultural values of many startups. By introducing novelty, flexibility, and depth to the decision-making process, creativity helps you deliver better results for the business.

Integrating creativity as a critical thinking skill into your resume involves showcasing instances where you've taken non-generic approaches to solve problems, make decisions, or innovate. 

Here's one way you can incorporate creativity into your resume:

• Innovation Challenge Winner (2022): Led a team of 15 people to win an industry innovation challenge by creatively solving a long-standing issue in supply chain management

3. Analysis

Analytical skills on a resume add significant value in virtually any professional setting and are crucial for personal development as well. Demonstrating these skills can help show that you’re adaptable in the workplace and able to draw correct conclusions from information.

Here's how you can showcase analytical skills in the "Projects" section of your resume:

• Customer Behavior Prediction: Utilized machine learning algorithms to analyze customer behavior, leading to more targeted marketing and a 25% increase in sales
• Website Optimization: Conducted A/B tests on website elements, leading to an improved user experience and a 15% increase in engagement
• Resource Allocation: Analyzed departmental needs and reallocated resources, resulting in a 10% decrease in operational costs

4. Decision-making

In fast-paced work environments, employers value job seekers who can identify and analyze problems and make effective decisions to solve them.

Hiring managers often look for candidates with strong decision-making skills within teams, which may require technical or industry-specific expertise. Strong decision-making among a team can contribute to better cohesion and collective problem-solving.

In addition to incorporating decision-making skills in your professional summary, work experience, projects, and more, a resume "Skills" section can be a compelling way to showcase decision-making—highlighting the tools you used to analyze situations, weigh options, and execute effective solutions—making your resume more persuasive.

5. Communication

Once you’ve identified an issue and discussed possible solutions, good communication comes in handy. Good communication skills mean you can present conclusions in a persuasive manner—written or verbal.

However, good communication isn’t just about speaking; it's also about listening. Active listening and open-mindedness help you understand other perspectives and shift your own when necessary. It also involves understanding your and others’ emotions.

There are plenty of ways to integrate communication skills into your resume, whether that's under work experience, projects, or your “Education” section. Sharing quantifiable metrics can also go a long way toward showing how your communication skills have saved the day in your past roles.

Here's a quick example:

• Facilitated team meetings to ensure clear communication and effective collaboration, resulting in a 20% increase in project completion rates
• Presented quarterly reports with team performance and future strategies to senior management

6. Leadership

Good leaders need to be able to evaluate the potential risks and benefits of a course of action (or many) and guide their teams toward the best possible outcomes. By showcasing how your leadership skills have benefited your past companies, you demonstrate your effectiveness as a critical thinker.

One of the most effective ways to highlight your leadership skills on your resume is to show the impact you made at various organizations, with key metrics to show your decisions under pressure.

Here's an example:

Work Experience 

• Spearheaded team expansion from 10 to 30 members in 12 months, leading to a 40% increase in project delivery efficiency and overall team productivity
• Established and led a cross-functional task force, resulting in a 25% reduction in project timelines and a subsequent 15% improvement in client satisfaction
• Directed a team through a critical organizational restructuring, boosting employee morale and engagement, and contributing to a 20% reduction in staff turnover

How to add critical thinking skills to your resume or cover letter

In a competitive job market, employers aren’t just looking for technical expertise or hard skills—they also want candidates who can think critically, solve complex problems, resolve conflict, and adapt to the ever-changing professional landscape.

Exceptional critical thinking and conceptual skills can be the difference between you and another candidate. They demonstrate your ability to analyze situations, make sound decisions, and lead teams—all of which are invaluable in almost any role and industry.

Here are a few ways you can include critical thinking skills on your resume or cover letter to make sure your job application stands out:

1. Use action verbs that highlight critical thinking

Action verbs can bring your critical thinking skills to life and make your resume more engaging. Instead of using generic verbs like "did" or "made," opt for more dynamic verbs such as "analyzed," "formulated," "assessed," or "strategized."

2. Integrate critical thinking into your brand

Your resume summary is often the first thing recruiters read. By embedding critical thinking skills there, you set the tone for the rest of your resume.

For example, a statement like "Results-driven professional, skilled in analytical problem-solving and strategic decision-making" immediately signals to the employer that you have valuable critical thinking skills.

3. Use real-world scenarios and projects

Real-world examples offer concrete evidence of your critical thinking abilities. You can create a separate “Projects” section where you detail specific instances of how you applied critical thinking to solve real-world problems. This provides context that makes your skills more relatable and impactful.

Add critical-thinking skills to your resume with Teal

The job search can seem daunting at first. No matter your industry or career level, editing your resume is easier with Teal. 

Teal’s AI Resume Builder helps you quickly generate personalized resumes tailored for each job application. Incorporate your critical thinking ability by customizing every section and following expert guidance to ensure you don't miss a beat every time you hit apply.

Want to learn more about how Teal can help create a standout resume? Sign up for a free account today to get started!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i demonstrate my critical thinking skills in a job interview after including them on my resume, can i include critical thinking skills in my resume if my previous job roles didn't explicitly require them, should i list critical thinking skills separately on my resume or integrate them into my experience and qualifications.

Related Articles

Zety Reviews: Ratings and Customer Feedback

Jobscan Reviews: Ratings & User Feedback

LinkedIn Skills: How to Choose, Add & Delete Skills On LinkedIn [+ Examples]

How to Add Projects to LinkedIn: A Step-By-Step Guide (2024)

We help you find the career dream..

Essential Critical Thinking Skills: Demonstrate Critical Thinking in Your Resume

Here are the top ways to show your Critical Thinking skills on your resume. Find out relevant Critical Thinking keywords and phrases and build your resume today.

Is your resume ATS-friendly?

Drop your resume here or upload a file to find out if the skills in your resume are readable by an ATS.

In This Guide:

Critical thinking skills: key takeaways for your resume.

Essential Critical Thinking Skills in professional resumes. How to apply Critical Thinking in resume building in 2022. Show that you are a Critical Thinker and get the interview call.

How to demonstrate critical thinking skills on your resume

• Describe a challenging situation at work that put your critical thinking and decision-making skills to the test
• Mention a situation in which your answer to a problem was crucial for the success of a project
• Show that you are capable of prioritizing your task when having a significant workload.
• Provide evidence for a situation in which you have to conduct a whole project without any instructions

Remember that 80% of outcomes come from 20% of causes, which means that you have to pay close attention to describing the most essential and valuable facts about yourself as a professional. Thus, recruiters will be 100% sure that you know how to sort out data and explain it understandably.

Do not hesitate to use action verbs like ''analyze'', ''identify'' and ''solve'', which show that you have analytical skills. Focus on results rather than empty explanations. Now let's put everything said into practice.

Example 1: Demonstrate critical thinking skills in the experience section

Sales Analyst applying for the position of Sales Manager

• • Designed a social media strategy by myself that increased the company's share growth rate by 15%
• • Achieved a 200% increase in the lifetime value of every client by utilizing an innovative sales strategy
• • Created daily reports and contacted customers to determine customers' satisfaction
• • Completed a massive sales project 4 months before schedule, saving 35% of the estimated project cost
• • Collected, evaluated, and interpreted data from surveys every month and presented the results in front of the whole department
• • Resolved gaps between project development and budget costs, which led to better performance and increased brand awareness

The following candidate demonstrated undeniable experience in solving problems. They resolved gaps, created successful strategies and worked with big data. 

The applicant proved to be self-directed by designing an entire strategy entirely by themselves. The candidate's critical thinking skills led to astonishing results that impacted the entire performance of the company.

Demonstrate that you are good at prioritizing by selecting the essential experience points in your resume. Use action verbs that indicate critical thinking, like "analyze" and "conclude."

Prove that you solved problems and made critical decisions by providing appropriate examples. Let the results speak for you as a professional. Thus, recruiters are more likely to select you among other candidates because critical thinkers are the most promising employees.

Example 2: resume summary.

Project Manager applying for the position of Chief Operating Officer

With solid experience, this applicant proves to be a reliable professional who makes important decisions in a vast and successful company. They know how to coordinate massive projects while leading large teams of professionals.

Use this section to mention the most valuable experience in your career that proves your critical thinking and leadership skills. Do not forget the 80/20 principle. It is a clear sign that you are capable of evaluating and prioritizing information.

Example 3: Key Achievements

Research Scientist applying for the position of Medical Writer

Participating in such revolutionary projects is a clear sign that the candidate is highly intelligent. Their diligent work in writing these articles and holding inspiring and valuable presentations prove their critical thinking.

In this section, you should prove you are a trustworthy individual. Your accomplishments will provide evidence that you are a go-getter who always reaches their goals.

Example 4: Courses & Talents

Intern applying for the role of Business Analyst

You could build an impression about yourself by the courses you took in the past. They show that you are a self-directed individual who knows how to set SMART goals in their learning and professional experience. Mention only those courses that directly relate to the position you apply for.

Computer Technician applying for the job of Infrastructure Analyst

This candidate listed the most important skills for a computer technician. They emphasized both soft and hard skills that prove their professionalism.

Do not hesitate to add those critical thinking skills that you find appropriate for the section. Just remember to emphasize results and abilities rather than empty explanations. Action verbs and catchy phrases might help you create a good impression as an extraordinary person and professional.

• Show action:  use action verbs that indicate critical thinking and experience.
• Prioritize & Evaluate:  you should provide the recruiter with the most valuable information about yourself. This action proves you to be a critical thinker.
• Show problem solving: demonstrate your inner drive to overcome every issue and provide an answer to every problem.
• Set SMART goals: show that you always set reasonable goals that enhance your motivation to work.
• Demonstrate intelligence in decision-making:  let your results speak for you. Provide evidence that you can work under stress and make essential and logical decisions that lead to success.

About this report:

Data reflects analysis made on over 1M resume profiles and examples over the last 2 years from Enhancv.com.

While those skills are most commonly met on resumes, you should only use them as inspiration and customize your resume for the given job.

Try our professional resume builder

*No credit card required

Looking to build your own resume?

• Resume Skills

Short Cover Letter Examples: How to Write a Powerful Cover Letter That Stands Out

What to put on a resume: everything you need to include, resume wars: anakin skywalker vs darth vader, how to list address on a resume in 2024 – format, pro tips & examples, what do you look for in a manager interview question and answers, when you should (and not) add dean's list on your resume.

Find out how you have showcased your skills & optimize your resume

• Create Resume
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• Resume Examples
• Resume Templates
• AI Resume Builder
• Resume Summary Generator
• Resume Formats
• Resume Checker
• How to Write a Resume
• Modern Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates
• Cover Letter Builder
• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Formats
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Resume Guides
• Cover Letter Guides
• Job Interview Guides
• Job Interview Questions
• Career Resources
• Meet our customers
• Career resources
• English (UK)
• French (FR)
• German (DE)
• Spanish (ES)
• Swedish (SE)

© 2024 . All rights reserved.

Made with love by people who care.

• Knowledge Base
• Free Resume Templates
• Resume Builder
• Resume Examples
• Free Resume Review

What is critical thinking?

Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information and make reasoned judgments.

Critical thinking helps to think rationally and understand the connection between ideas. It helps to make sense of the world. Using critical thinking skills will make you challenge the loopholes.

For instance, it would enable you to find better solutions or ways to deal with existing issues, thus making you an asset. It is also why employers wish to find such people who think critically.

Read on to understand more about critical thinking, its importance, and incorporating such skills into your resumes.

Additionally, you can get a clear understanding of the following questions about critical thinking skills :

• What do you mean by critical thinking skills?
• How would you demonstrate critical thinking on a resume?
• What are the examples of critical thinking on a job?
• What are the 5 critical thinking skills?
• How to improve critical thinking skills?

What Are Critical Thinking Skills?

The skills that help us to analyze information, arguments, and situations are known as critical thinking skills. Critical thinkers can draw reasonable conclusions from plenty of information and discriminate between information.

Why is Critical Thinking Important?

A critical thinker evaluates sources of information- data, facts, and research findings. For instance, you can research the pros and cons of having a balanced diet. A quick Google search will give you plenty of information on why it is good for your health or is not.

You can find data to back up either side of the claim. Then, using critical thinking skills, you decide for yourself if having a balanced diet will be more or less beneficial for you.

So, critical thinking is important both personally and professionally. It is a skill that is highly valued by employers as well.

Why is Critical Thinking Important In a Workplace?

Critical thinking guides good decision-making, helping you spot possible obstacles and discover solutions to them. It assists you and your coworkers in coming up with new ideas to achieve objectives.

Critical thinking helps in identifying, and addressing workflow inefficiencies, improving management practices, guiding financial decisions, and cultivating a strategic attitude.

Employers want critical thinkers to evaluate a situation using logical thought and offer the best solution. Hiring a critical thinker implies micro-managing is not required.

How Would You Demonstrate Critical Thinking Skills in Your Job Search?

Critical thinking and critical thinker are the go-to words for employers, so much so that they mention them in the job listing. So, it fetches you brownie points when you mention critical thinking on your resume.

But is that all? Not really!

So, how do you demonstrate critical thinking skills in your job search?

Use Critical Thinking While Looking for Jobs

Read the job listing carefully and decide whether it would be worth your time. In your job search, it might happen that the role is suitable but the working hours are not, or the remuneration is not competitive. Would it then be worth going through the hiring process only to reject the offer in the end?

Add Keywords to Your Resume

If critical thinking is a key phrase in the job listing, then emphasize critical thinking skills throughout your job search. Use critical thinking keywords such as analytical, problem solving, creativity, etc. Include the top critical thinking skills that best describe you in your work experience and resume summary.

Demonstrate Critical Thinking in the Experience Section

Mention prior experiences where you had to make a decision in a challenging situation. It could be an instance where you supervised a project when no instructions were given or where you had to prioritize between many tasks.

What impact did your decision have? Quantify the results you achieved due to the decisions you took and mention them as bullet points in the experience section.

Demonstrate Critical Thinking in the Resume Summary

Craft a resume summary that encapsulates your experiences and sprinkle keywords such as implemented, result-oriented, problem solver, and driven. Keep the resume summary short and mention the most valuable experiences that you have had.

For instance, a driven individual with 5+ years of experience in app development who has led a team of 10 and implemented complex changes in software for IT companies.

Mention Skills in Your Cover Letter

Include critical thinking skills in the body of your letter. Pick relevant situations and experiences that you highly value and challenge you the most. Give specific examples of times when you have demonstrated critical thinking at work.

Show the Interviewer Your Skills

You can use instances when you demonstrated critical thinking at work when answering behavioral questions. Use the STAR method or situation, task, action, and result method.

Discuss times when you were faced with challenges at work and explain how you applied critical thinking to solve them. Explain your thought process clearly to the interviewer.

Also read : Should I include my soft skills on a resume?

What Are the Examples of Using Critical Thinking on a Job?

Aside from hard skills that decide how skilled you will be at your job, soft skills decide how tactful you will be with your tasks. Having rich soft skills will ensure that you perform your tasks correctly with very little mistakes or setbacks.

• Deciding the precedence order of tasks : A critical thinker decides the order by which the tasks should be completed on the basis of urgency and importance.
• Deciding the best course of action : A critical thinker reviews the evidence and devises a strategy to reach the desired outcome.
• Deciding favorable inputs : A critical thinker decides which information, data, or materials (in case a project requires using raw material) that would be required to complete the task.

The Top 5 Critical Thinking Skills

The in-demand critical thinking skills must be added to your resume and cover letter. They should be emphasized throughout the application process, such as during interviews.

The most important critical thinking skills are:

It means carefully examining something- a set of data or a text. Critical thinkers examine information, understand it, and convey its implications.

Communication

You have to communicate with colleagues and superiors to share your ideas effectively. Often, you will have to share your conclusions with them one-on-one or in a group.

So, you would use critical thinking and communicate effectively to figure out solutions to complex problems.

Also read : How to leverage communication skills in a workplace?

Critical thinking involves creativity and innovation. You would spot patterns in the information or provide a solution that no one else has thought of before. It requires a creative bent of mind.

Open-mindedness

To think critically, one needs to put aside assumptions or judgments. You have to analyze the information you receive and be objective in evaluating ideas without bias.

Problem-Solving

It is another critical thinking skill that involves- analyzing a problem, generating its solution, and then implementing it. It also involves assessing the success of the plan.

Hiring managers don’t simply want employees who can think about information critically. They need employees to come up with practical solutions.

How to Develop Critical Thinking Skills?

If you catch yourself making rushed decisions with no real thought, don't worry because it is a skill that you can build. Use the seven-step rule to develop critical thinking skills:

Step 1: Identify the Problem

Choose to be precise while identifying the issue. The narrower the scope, the easier it is to find answers. You do not have to do it all on your own either, if there are coworkers with the same skill set as you, consult them so that you cover all bases.

Step 2: Gather Data

Find several sources of information that contain different ideas and points of view. Doing so will help you avoid hasty decisions and understand how to ensure integrity of choices by looking at it from all points of view.

Step 3: Analyze and Evaluate the Data

To analyze and evaluate data, you need to check the reliability of the sources from where the data is derived. Check if the conclusions are backed by data.

Step 4: Identify Assumptions

Ensure that you identify any underlying assumptions before you come to a conclusion. Consider others' assumptions from every angle along with yours to eradicate any biased decisions and to come up with the best solutions.

Step 5: Establish Significance

Include information that is useful and relevant. While conducting surveys, use a suitable sample size to determine if the outcomes affect many people.

Step 6: Make a Decision/Reach a Conclusion

Identify various conclusions that are possible. Decide which of them are sufficiently supported. Weigh their pros and cons. Making brash decisions can be risky as the lack of thought can lead you to lose resources in many ways.

Step 7: Present or Communicate

Present the conclusion to all stakeholders. Instead of being unprepared, try to structure your thoughts and develop an outline so that you do not miss out on any points. Articulating your thoughts correctly can earn you great respect in a workplace.

Key Takeaways

Critical thinking skills are applicable in both personal and professional lives. More often than not, they are mentioned in the job listings. Keep these points in mind while incorporating such skills into your resumes:

• Critical thinkers can draw reasonable conclusions from plenty of information and are highly valued by employers
• If critical thinking is a key phrase in the job listing, then emphasize critical thinking skills throughout your job search
• Critical thinking would help you to decide the precedence order of tasks, the best course of action, and favorable inputs for a task
• Develop critical thinking skills by applying the seven-step rule

Use our career platform for a smooth resume-building experience. We provide a 24/7 online chat service for all your job & career-related queries. You can also reach out to us at [email protected] for any professional assistance.

Share this blog

Subscribe to Free Resume Writing Blog by Hiration

Get the latest posts delivered right to your inbox

Stay up to date! Get all the latest & greatest posts delivered straight to your inbox

Is Your Resume ATS Friendly To Get Shortlisted?

Upload your resume for a free expert review.

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

• Career Advice
• How can you Show Critical...

How can you Show Critical Thinking Skills on your Resume?

15 min read · Updated on April 18, 2023

With critical thinking skills in high demand, you can get ahead with a resume that showcases those abilities

Soft skills like critical thinking continue to be vitally important for companies around the country and across the world. Unfortunately, many of those companies have long complained about their struggles to find candidates who demonstrate the crucial critical thinking skills that their enterprises need to succeed. The question job seekers need to ask themselves is simple: what critical thinking skills are companies looking for, and how can they be highlighted in a resume to ensure that they capture an employer's attention?

In this post, we'll define these important abilities, consider some examples of critical thinking skills, and examine why they are so important to today's companies. We'll also offer some helpful tips that you can use to develop your own critical thinking and provide guidance to help you to highlight those abilities on your resume.

What are critical thinking skills?

Before you can include critical thinking skills on your  resume , you first need to understand what they are. The simplest definition is that they are a range of abilities that enable you to think and problem-solve using facts, deduction, and logic. This rational approach to thinking can enable you to connect seemingly unrelated facts, analyze information in an unbiased way, and resolve complex problems.

Critical thinkers do more than just gather facts and make decisions, of course. They use their cognitive abilities to infer missing information, connect ideas, and consider the outcome of any decision they make. These types of thinkers have the ability to act with independence and produce competent results with a minimum of ongoing supervision. For people who possess these skills, life and work choices tend to revolve around reason and logic. That rational approach to thinking is something that every employer prizes.

Examples of critical thinking skills

It's also helpful to explore some examples of different critical thinking skills, to better understand the types of abilities that employers will want to see in your resume. As you read through the following examples, you should be able to identify how each of these abilities is an essential part of the broader critical thought process. If you find yourself lacking in any of these areas, you will likely benefit from focusing on developing those skills.

Observation

The ability to conduct effective observations is an essential critical thinking skill. Problems can never be resolved until they are identified and properly understood. Your ability to observe can enable you to enjoy a deeper understanding of the facts surrounding a situation or potential problem. Just as important, those observational talents can assist you as you attempt to understand other stakeholders' different points of view and attempt to find areas of common ground to inform your decision-making.

Open-mindedness

It's crucial to keep an open mind whenever you engage in critical thinking. Being receptive to other points of view and all the available facts can help you to mitigate any personal bias that might otherwise cloud your analysis and judgment. True critical thought requires you to set aside your preconceptions and personal preferences to ensure that you examine the facts and evidence in an objective manner.

Of course, every human being has their own biases and no one expects you to erase those preconceptions completely. The key is to recognize them and have the self-awareness needed to set them aside whenever you need to look at things critically. For many people, this challenge is one of the biggest impediments to developing effective critical thought processes.

Analytical thinking

Analytical thinking is the process of evaluating data to identify patterns, prioritize facts, and eliminate irrelevant information. These skills are key in the workplace and as part of the critical thinking process, since they enable you to make reason-based judgments about the value of the information you gather and organize. This ensures that your decision-making process focuses only on the facts and details that matter, instead of focusing on information that might distract you from identifying the best possible solution.

Sound analysis skills necessarily include the ability to know which questions to ask to inform any decision. For example:

Can I trust the source of this information?

Do alternative facts exist, and how reliable are they?

Are there other points of view that I need to consider?

Do my data sources have their own biases and, if so, how might those biases impact my decision?

Do I have enough facts at hand to even begin to form an opinion or solution?

In many instances, the information that you have ready access to may be insufficient to help you to form a reasoned conclusion. That's where your research skills will come into play. Being able to conduct your own research can be a key factor in ensuring that you have the data you need to render a decision or resolve a problem. Fortunately, research is now easier than it has ever been, provided you know how to use the internet to seek out reliable data.

Proper research should always begin with an effort to define the questions that you want to answer. One effective strategy is to create a list of those questions and note why the answers will be relevant to your analysis. Then consult reliable online sources to learn more about the subject at hand. As you do so, try to avoid sites that offer opinion or fringe theories and instead rely on university websites, nonprofits, and trusted news sites. You should also consult multiple sources, to ensure that your gathered information is as trustworthy as possible.

Creative thinking

The ability to think creatively will also be a vital component of your critical thinking process. Even after you've gathered and analyzed all of the available data, and made inferences to fill in any knowledge gaps, you will still have to use some measure of creativity to devise a solution to your problem. Now, if your first reaction to that idea is to suggest that you are not a creative person, think again. Everyone has some degree of creativity and that creative streak can be developed if you put in the effort.

Note also that this type of creativity has nothing to do with the ability to write a novel, paint a picture, or create the next great musical masterpiece. Instead, this creativity focuses on the ability to identify patterns and infer connections to create a variety of possible solutions to any given problem. With practice and focus, you should be able to learn to engage in this type of thinking to help you with your decision-making.

Inference is simply the ability to “fill in the gaps” between various pieces of data and evidence. For example, if you're at work and see a coworker grimace as they bite into a sandwich in the cafeteria, you may not know exactly why they made that face. However, you can use your own experience and judgment to infer some possible reasons. Perhaps the sandwich tasted bad. Or the person experienced pain, possibly due to a bad tooth or a hard object in the sandwich. You get the picture.

The ability to infer certain truths is essential in most decision-making and problem-solving exercises, since you may not always have all of the information you need to properly understand a decision. What you will have, however, is your own experience and knowledge, as well as the ability to make reasonable assumptions that fit within the fact pattern at hand. Well-honed inference abilities will empower you to fill in those missing gaps in the evidence to make the most rational assumptions possible.

Self-awareness and self-management

Self-awareness is a prerequisite to  self-management , which is a vital component in the critical thinking process. You must be able to regulate your thoughts and emotions, which means that you need to possess enough self-awareness to recognize how you're thinking and feeling. This awareness and ability to regulate yourself will ensure that you have the objectivity needed to maintain an open and unbiased mind as you examine evidence, draw conclusions, and make decisions.

Communication

Communication skills always end up being discussed in conversations like this - and for good reason. In both business and life, the ability to effectively communicate your ideas is essential for success. This is true in critical thinking as well, since you will almost certainly need to share your conclusions and solutions with other people at some point in the process.

When your available solutions or decisions are limited, that communication may be as easy as explaining your conclusion and choice. On the other hand, there will also be times when you'll need to go into great detail to share your results. For example, let's say that your critical analysis and thought process led you to several viable solutions and an equal number of potentially beneficial decisions.  Communicating those complex results will require you to compare the options and the various pros and cons of each.

Why are critical thinking skills so important?

One of the biggest reasons that these abilities are so prized these days is that employers find soft skills like critical thinking in short supply. Of course, that's not a new problem. Nearly a decade ago, an American Management Association  survey found that 72% of employers cited critical thinking as a vital component of their business success. However, only about half of those employers believed that their own employees possessed those vital skills.

Today, many employers continue to complain about a lack of critical thinking abilities in their prospective talent pools. A survey in 2022 found that many managers still cited critical thinking as a  top-ranked skill they look for in job candidates. Those same managers, however, said that it was common for newer employees to lack those critical abilities - raising doubts about whether any real progress has been made in recent years to ensure that new workers have the thinking skills employees need to succeed.

The fact is that there are many reasons why critical thinking abilities are so vitally important for employers and employees alike:

Many occupations require critical thinking

Professional endeavors typically require more than just technical skills. Whether you're seeking a career in healthcare, scientific research, law, finance, or education, the ability to think critically can be essential to success. Every job that involves analyzing information, deducing facts, and  solving problems creatively requires some measure of critical thinking.

Critical thinkers are more adaptable to new information

People who can think critically tend to be more amenable to changing their opinions and minds as new facts challenge their preconceptions. Critical thought requires constant self-reflection, to mitigate potential personal bias, and the ability to view facts and problems from many different perspectives.

Critical thinkers are adept at researching

Because critical thinking relies on information, these thinkers are forced to become talented researchers to get the data they need for their analysis. A great critical thinker not only knows how to gather new information, but also knows how to prioritize the data they encounter.

Improved decision-making

The best decisions tend to be the ones that are most reliant on facts and reason. Critical thinking processes enable you to recognize your biases, choose logic over emotional responses, and make reason-based decisions that provide superior solutions for any problem. Critical thinkers are able to enjoy these decision-making benefits in both their personal and professional lives.

How to develop critical thinking skills

Even if you're already talented in this area, it's important to know how to improve your critical thinking skills. Yes, that's correct: critical thinking abilities are not something that you're born with; they are skills that you learn and develop over the course of your life. Fortunately, there are easy ways that you can improve your own thinking skills to become a better critical thinker. For example:

1. Learn to ask basic questions

One of the best ways to develop critical thinking skills is to train yourself to ask more questions, even about basic things. By focusing on the who, what, when, where, and why of a situation or problem, you can often cut through complex possibilities and get to the heart of the issue. Questions can include things like:

Who was the last person to try to tackle this issue?

What are we trying to achieve here?

When does this need to be resolved?

Where can I find other data that might help us to solve this issue?

Why have we been using this process up until now?

2. Always question your own biases

Biases can cause you to make assumptions that may not be supported by the facts or evidence. By constantly questioning your own biases, you can improve your self-awareness and ensure that you take a more objective approach to your analysis and research during any critical thought process.

3. Take stock of your thoughts

Just as you must be conscious of your biases, you must also be conscious of your own thought processes. Humans think at such a fast pace that most of us end up taking mental shortcuts. This can cause you to miss crucial facts or even draw illogical inferences. Take your time and be aware of how your thoughts might be inhibiting your critical processes.

4. Get in the habit of examining evidence

Learn to examine facts and situations as they occur around you. This simple exercise in paying attention to the details can help you to hone your analysis skills.

5. Look for gaps in the information at hand

Practice your inference skills. When you see someone standing on a sidewalk impatiently, think about why they might be waiting in that area. Simple examples like that can get you in the habit of trying to fill in missing gaps in any pattern of evidence.

6. Always think for yourself

If you're someone who tends to follow others' opinions and conclusions, focus on learning to think more for yourself. Learn to trust your own judgment and instincts as you develop your analysis and observation skills. This will help you to prepare for more advanced critical thinking and problem-solving in the future.

7. Focus on developing leadership traits

Learn to be a leader by developing the skills and traits that can empower you in a leadership role. Practice being more decisive,  adaptable , and resilient. Focus on empathy to develop your ability to understand other points of view. For more information about leadership, check out our post,  These 14 Leadership Traits Can Fuel Your Career Success.

Tips to help you show critical thinking skills on your resume

To properly highlight your critical thinking skills on a resume, you should focus on using language that emphasizes your ability to solve problems. You should include this language within your resume summary, your job experience section, and your listed skills. Do not, however, simply list “critical thinking” within your skills. Instead, you'll want to include those skills that demonstrate your critical thinking abilities.

Highlighting critical thinking skills within your resume summary

It's important to draw attention to your critical thinking abilities within your resume summary, since that's the first thing that hiring managers see when they review your resume. Again, you don't need to include a direct reference to critical thinking, unless that term is included within the job description. Instead, you can simply make references to those abilities as you describe yourself and your achievements in that summary paragraph. For example:

Data-driven analyst and creative problem-solver with 10 years of experience in the technology industry. Managed multiple large projects and implemented complex technology solutions for companies with a combined market capitalization of more than $100 billion.

With this summary, the job candidate highlights their ability to rely on data analysis and creative thinking to solve problems - which is just another way of saying that they just might be the critical thinker that this prospective employer is looking for!

Showing examples of critical thinking in your work experience section

To properly showcase your critical thinking ability in your work experience section, you should include an example of a time when those skills helped you to accomplish a goal or resolve a problem for your employer. Do this by citing the example within your bulleted list of achievements for each company. For example:

• Identified and resolved deficiencies within the company's vendor logistics network by devising and implementing a new process that reduced supply delays by 30%
• Managed the team responsible for analyzing network security weaknesses, identifying new solutions to enhance protection and implementing strategies that reduced serious threats by 89%
• Initiated and led a project that crafted new client retention solutions, reducing client loss by 60% after implementing new client management protocols and revised service personnel training and oversight processes

Listing critical thinking skills in your skills section

As we noted earlier, you should not generally include the words “critical thinking skills” in your resume's skill section. Still, you'll want to emphasize the skills that enable you to think critically by including terms like:

Data analysis

Problem solving

Active listening

Self-management

Organization

Risk management

Data-driven decision-making

Ask for resume help

With employers continuing to focus on their need for critical thinkers, it's more vital than ever to ensure that your resume properly conveys your critical thinking skills. By understanding which skills are essential for critical thinking, and working to develop your own abilities in this area, you can better position yourself and your resume to stand out from other job candidates in your field.

Need to ensure that your resume effectively highlights your important critical thinking skills? Get a  free resume review from our team of experts today!

Recommended reading:

Enhance Your Career Development by Boosting Your Cognitive Ability

Leader vs. Manager: Understanding the Difference Between These Two Key Roles

Is Your Resume Inspirational? If Not, Here's How to Fix It

Related Articles:

Don't “Snowplow” Your Kids' Job Search — Set Them Up for Success Instead

What Kind of Job Candidate Are You?

Why December is the Best Time of Year to Look for a Job

See how your resume stacks up.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

Critical Thinking Skills To Advance Your Career: Definitions and Examples

Quick Navigation

What are critical thinking skills?

Common critical thinking skills at work, examples of listing critical thinking skills on a resume, tips to improve your critical thinking skills.

Critical thinking is an ability you have to reason logically, rationally and reflectively. Critical thinkers can identify problems by observation and research, question assumptions and analyze to resolve issues. Managers value employees who use critical thinking skills in the workplace to become efficient problem-solvers. In this article, you’ll learn about critical thinking skills and see skill examples to help you get hired.

Critical thinking skills are thought processes you can develop that help you analyze problems and resolve situations in an analytical, unbiased way. Critical thinking skills are often used at work during problem solving, conflict resolution, collaboration, interpretation and in leadership tasks.  

Here are common critical thinking skills with definitions used in at work:

To be accurate is to be free of errors or discrepancies. This means you are careful to choose the right word, double-check your numbers and statistics, and be precise about times and places to the best of your ability. Accounting, for example, is a profession in which accuracy is crucial to ensure that the finances of a company are in good order. Accuracy is also important in the scientific research, engineering and pharmacy industries.

Information-seeking 

Information seekers actively search for data, through research and observation, for making decisions rather than relying only on personal preference or a desired outcome. Other professions in which information gathering is crucial include journalism and law enforcement. For example, an office administrator planning a holiday party cannot just make a reservation at their favorite restaurant; instead, they must seek out quotes, find open dates from venues and ensure each employee can attend before choosing a day. 

Logical reasoning

Logical reasoning is using rational connections between things, events and people to make conclusions. A judge is an example of a career in which logical reasoning is important. A judge has to collect a vast amount of information from a wide variety of sources, decide which information is most reliable, and come up with a verdict accordingly. Other professions in which logical reasoning is important include computer scientist and psychologist.

To evaluate is to judge the quality of something. You might do this every day when you decide whether or not something you want to buy is worth the price. An antiques appraiser has to look at an object, study its history and documentation, and decide its value. Financial advisors and building site inspectors are other professions that requires evaluation.

This skill requires you to use the information you’ve gathered and the conclusions you have made to make a reasonable theory for what might happen next. Predicting is different from guessing because you can use information like a past experience to help make your prediction more likely. 

For example, an oncologist uses past data, research and their own experience to decide whether chemotherapy or surgery might have the best results for a particular patient. Other examples of professions in which predicting would be a good critical thinking skill include meteorologists and business analysts. 

The best way to demonstrate your critical thinking skills on a resume is by showing how you have practiced them in the past. Here are some examples of how to list critical thinking skills in the work experience section of your resume:

Example of observation, research and problem-solving

‘Researched and implemented a mobile phone app that parents and teachers used to reduce school pickup wait times by an average of 17 minutes.’

Example of communication and creativity

‘Created an ice-breaker evening event for junior analysts that included a scavenger hunt and skits; the event has since become an annual tradition and spread to all four branches.’

Example of research, evaluation and implementation

‘Analyzed customer service feedback surveys to identify three major areas of improvement, and organized trainings and course material accordingly.’

Example of predicting, reasoning and problem-solving

‘Adjusted inventory effectively to prepare for hurricane season, saving the grocery chain $1.2 million in wastage and improving profits by 30 percent.’

Here are popular ways that you can develop your critical thinking skills: 

Ask questions

Ask a lot of questions. Sometimes a situation that seems difficult to solve may not be if you ask questions to find out where the problem is coming from. Questioning is a way to continually gather evidence and find out why other people think or act the way they do. For example, if your team members miss a weekly meeting regularly, you can ask what their challenges are in attending the meeting, and find a way to make sure each person can attend. 

Think about your thinking

 It is important to examine your own thought patterns and assumptions to see if any prejudice or bias affects the way you tackle a problem. For example, if you have always worked in an office, you may feel that a fellow employee who works remotely is less productive than you. If you examine why you are thinking this way, it could be that you have only ever worked from an office, which is why home is synonymous with relaxation. However, if you objectively analyze that employee’s output and compare it to others who work from both home and the office, you will get hard data with which you can prove or disprove your assumption.

This applies to thought, perspectives and people. Always approaching problems with one set of tools, or always relying on one person’s advice, can only lead you to the same result each time. For better results, research alternate methods, talk to others in similar positions and even examine the viewpoints of those who oppose you. For example, if you are tasked with making a bicycle delivery in a new part of town, you might talk to others who live in the area to find out about shortcuts and look up different routes on map apps until you find one that best meets your needs.

Press Enter to search

Expert Tips for Highlighting Analytical Skills on Your Resume: 2024 Edition

In a data-driven world, your resume needs to keep up. Our 2024, recruiter-approved guide on embedding analytical skills in your resume includes which skills to list, synonyms to use, and 15+ examples.

2 years ago   •   12 min read

Analytical skills are an integral part of any job, be it a data analyst role or a senior management position. But what exactly are employers looking for when they ask to see analytical skills on your resume?

Analytical skills refer to your ability to break down problems and come up with appropriate solutions. These skills are useful in any field, but especially in roles involving science, data, engineering, or other tech-heavy processes. Typically, to show analytical skills, you need to describe a situation or a problem at a previous job, detail how you came up with a solution, and quantify the benefits of your solution. In other words, how did your solution benefit the company or project as a whole?

In this article, we’ll explain what the best analytical skills are to showcase on your resume, how to tailor your skills to each application, how to highlight specific analytical toolsets depending on your industry, and how to show analytical skills in each section of your resume.

Let's start with a quick "how to" before diving into exactly what analytical skills employers are looking for.

A step by step guide to demonstrating analytical skills on your resume

If you're applying for a job that requires strong analytical skills, you should:

• Think of a time when you had to analyze something and include examples in your work experience accomplishments. Be as specific as possible and include the results of your actions.
• Include a section for projects and other activities where you’ve used analytical skills.
• List any relevant degrees or other qualifications in your education section.
• Mention technical skills related to analysis in your skills section.
• Highlight analytical skills in your resume summary and cover letter.
• Use synonyms to avoid repeating “analyzed,” “analysis,” and “analytical skills.”

We'll go into each of those in a little more detail below, but first — what are employers actually looking for when they ask for analytical skills?

Analytical skills to list on your resume

If a job posting mentions analytical skills, that means the company is looking for applicants with abilities in:

• Problem solving
• Observation
• Data analysis
• Critical thinking
• Decision making
• Machine learning
• AI-driven data interpretation
• Deductive reasoning
• Forecasting
• Brainstorming
• Troubleshooting
• Predictive modeling
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis
• Organization
• Communication
• Feedback and reporting

How analytical skills are changing in 2024

With the rise of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial intelligence (AI), traditional analytical roles are evolving to include these new and emerging skill sets. As AI and ML reshape conventional analysis methods and data-driven decision-making, modern recruiters expect to see experience with these types of tools for a variety of roles moving forward.

Studying modern AI and ML tools can help you update your resume and remain competitive, especially in technical roles. Consider investing in online learning, qualifications, and certificates to add these skills to your resume, as this will help your resume stand out in 2024, particularly for modern data-driven roles.

Should you still list analytical skills for non-technical roles?

It's important to mention analytical skills on your resume, even when applying for non-technical roles. In today’s diverse job market, roles in areas like marketing, human resources, and administration still benefit significantly from analytical thinking, even if it’s not directly a data-driven role.

Demonstrating your ability to analyze consumer trends, assess employee data, or manage complex scheduling shows versatility and critical thinking, and highlights your capacity to approach problems creatively, all of which are excellent transferable skills to highlight for any industry.

How to show analytical skills on your resume

Now that you understand what employers are looking for, how do you prove that you have what it takes?You can demonstrate analytical skills on your resume by giving examples of where you:

• Analyzed data to come up with solutions or improve processes
• Worked with numbers (i.e. show your numerical and quantitative abilities)
• Managed budgets or involved in organizational planning
• Designed processes, background research, etc.

In addition to the traditional work settings, it's important to showcase how you've used analytical skills in remote or hybrid work environments, as employers increasingly value candidates who can adapt their problem-solving skills to virtual settings. Highlight examples where you have successfully managed or participated in remote projects, used digital communication tools, or independently solved problems while working remotely.

Synonyms for analytical skills

Where do you begin when demonstrating analytical skills on a resume? With action verbs . These are the heart and soul of your bullet point accomplishments and the clearest way to tell recruiters what you actually did.

Starting with "analyzed" sounds like a no-brainer, and it should definitely be in there once or twice. More than that, however, and it’s likely to make a hiring manager's eyes start to glaze over. Try shaking it up with synonyms like:

• Interpreted
• Investigated
• Extrapolated

Where to put analytical skills on your resume

The best way to demonstrate any kind of soft skill is to scatter it throughout your resume — that way, instead of just saying, "I have great analytical skills" and leaving it at that, you're painting a picture of exactly what you bring to the table.

This means you should include analytical skills in your:

• Work experience bullet points
• Projects or additional section
• Education section
• Skills section
• Resume summary
• Cover letter

Here are some examples of what that should look like.

In your work experience section

The best place to include analytical skills on your resume is in your work experience section . Why? Because a) it’s the part of your resume recruiters pay the most attention to, and b) it shows how you’ve actually used those skills in a professional setting.

Include bullet point examples of times you’ve analyzed data, including what impact your accomplishment had on the company’s bottom line, as shown in the example below.

In a projects or additional section

Your resume doesn’t have to be limited to paid work experience. If you’ve completed significant personal or university projects, activities, competitions, or certifications , feel free to list these in a section titled “Projects,” “Other,” or “Additional Information.”For example:

In your education section

If you have a degree, major, or other qualification that could help demonstrate analytical skills, make sure you list it in your education section . This could include majors in computer science , engineering, mathematics, or statistics.

If you’ve taken courses or projects in AI, machine learning, or advanced data analytics, highlight these to demonstrate your understanding of current industry trends.  If you’re a recent graduate, you could also include minors or relevant coursework .

For example:

In your skills section

Technical skills like data visualization or engineering software , proficiency with standard techniques, programming languages, and other tools and frameworks can all go in the skills section of your resume, as shown in the example below.

Alongside traditional analysis tools, mention your proficiency with modern AI and machine learning software, visualization tools like TensorFlow or PyTorch, and any other modern data analysis frameworks you're familiar with to show that you’re up-to-date with current and emerging tools.

If you’re not sure of which technical skills to include on your resume, use the tool below to search for the job you’re applying for and it’ll give you a list of relevant skills. You can also upload your resume to the tool — it’ll perform a quick scan and tell you which skills are missing from your resume.

In your resume summary

When applying for roles involving data analysis, put your analytical skills front and center in your resume summary . Your summary should be 3-6 lines, including your key skills and experience related to data analysis. For an even better chance of getting past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) , include a resume title that matches the title of the job you’re applying for. For example:

In your cover letter

If you want to talk about your skills in a little more depth, your cover letter is the ideal place. Reinforce that you’re a good fit for an analysis-heavy role by expanding on how you’ve used your analytical skills, including the context, end result, and how you plan to use those skills in the position you’re applying for.

Here's an example:

During my internship with Airbus working with fluid mechanic technology I evaluated wind tunnel and flight test data in order to reduce external airframe noise emissions. The analysis that I conducted involved examining data under varying flight conditions and extracting useful information. At the conclusion of my internship, I was able to provide my group with recommendations for improving the model scale testing in the wind tunnel to make better predictions for the flight test outcomes. My work was part of the group’s task to provide continual improvements to the company’s commercial aircraft. I would be excited to use my analytical skills to improve hardware systems, especially early in their life-cycle at Raytheon, when recommendations can have a high impact and positive result for the end user.

Sample resume with analytical skills

Really need to emphasize analytical skills on your resume? Here's an example of what you should be aiming for:

You can download this resume template in Google Docs or as a Microsoft Word document.

Notice that not once does this example use the words “strong analytical skills.” Instead, it demonstrates these skills through previous experience, technical skills, appropriate qualifications, and the use of resume power words.

Get a free resume analysis

The best way to figure out if your resume conveys enough analytical skills is to upload it to the tool below — you'll get a confidential resume review, with a detailed analysis of your analytical skills.

Analytical skills bullet point examples

You don’t have to start from scratch when coming up with examples of resume accomplishments that demonstrate analytical skills. Here are some examples to help you get started:

Don't just say that you analyzed something — mention exactly what you did and what the results were.

Led the first major effort to A/B test the company's core sales landing page and optimize it for customer acquisition; resulted in a 18% increase in new customers.

You can always list hard skills in your Skills section, but it's even better if you can weave them into your bullet points as well.

Built Looker dashboard using data from MySQL and MongoDB to visualize core business KPIs (e.g. Monthly Recurring Revenue), saving 18 hours per week of manual reporting work.

What employers care about most is the bottom line, so if you made a measurable impact on your company, start with that.

Reduced signup drop-offs from 35% to 18% and increased user engagement by 20%, through a combination of hypothesis testing, segmentation analysis and machine learning algorithms.

Problem solving and critical thinking are essential components of analytical skills. Hiring managers aren't just looking for someone who can solve the problems presented to them — they want people who can seek out answers on their own.

Implemented crash reporter and used findings to fix three biggest causes of crashes; fixes reduced customer support calls by 30%.

Communication and analysis may seem like very different skills, but they often go hand in hand. The best employees are the ones with a healthy mix of hard and soft skills — things like teamwork, leadership, and communication.

Co-led task force to realize $1.62m annual savings; analyzed large sets of data to improve fixed and variable cost inputs and recommended additional invoice validation measures.

How to tailor your analytical skills to match the job description

Matching the skills you highlight on your resume with each specific job description is an essential part of showing a recruiter why you’re the right candidate for the job, and how your previous experience is relevant to their position.

Here's how to tailor your analytical skills to each job you apply for:

• Analyze the job description : Carefully read the job posting and identify any analytical skills specifically highlighted in the text. Employers often list specific tools, methodologies, or problem-solving approaches they prefer, so take note of these.
• Use relevant keywords : Look for keywords in the job description and use a keyword finder to generate a list of relevant words to include on your resume. Including these keywords not only shows that you have the specific skills a recruiter is looking for but also helps your resume get past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Customize your experience : In your work experience section, emphasize aspects of your previous roles that align with these keywords and requirements. For example, if the job requires data visualization, highlight your experience with tools like Tableau or Power BI, and demonstrate your practical experience in contexts similar to what the job will entail.
• Highlight transferable skills : If you are switching industries or applying for a role that involves a different kind of analysis than you've done in the past, focus on transferable analytical skills like data interpretation, statistical analysis, or logical reasoning.
• Quantify your achievements : Whether discussing projects, specific tools, or transferable skills, use metrics to quantify your experience. For example, instead of simply saying that you “worked to improve the efficiency of your project’s marketing campaign” , write that you "Used statistical analysis to improve marketing campaign efficiency, resulting in a 20% increase in customer engagement."

How to highlight specific analytical tools on your resume

When applying for roles that require proficiency in specific analytical tools, it's crucial to highlight and mention the particular tools you have experience with. These tools are likely the exact tools you will be using in your new position, so it’s important to be specific about your experience with each one, even if you’re just a beginner.

• Split up your skills list: Dedicate a portion of your skills section to list the analytical tools you are proficient with, like Excel, SQL, Python, R, Tableau, SAS, or SPSS.
• Highlight your proficiency: Be specific about your level of expertise, such as beginner, advanced, or expert, and the projects you’ve used them in. Even if you are only a novice in a skill, it is worth including if it’s relevant to your application.
• Mention specific tools in your work experience bullet points: Directly mention tools in your work experience section, to demonstrate not just the particular tool but also how you have used it in a work context. For example, “Utilized Python and Pandas library for data manipulation and analysis in a market research project.”
• Describe specific projects and the scope of your skills : If you’ve worked on academic or personal projects that involved data analysis, describe the tools and software you used, the scope of your involvement, and the positive results. This showcases your practical application of these tools in real-world scenarios, even if you lack paid experience with these skills.

How to showcase analytical skills at different career stages

Whether you're just starting out, are mid-career, or are looking for senior positions, here are tailored tips to highlight your analytical skills effectively.

Entry-level candidates

For entry-level candidates, focus on educational and project experience, especially if you lack extensive paid work experience. You can highlight analytical skills you learned through university projects, internships, and relevant coursework and showcase your eagerness to learn and adapt by including relevant certificates or workshops.

Conducted comprehensive data analysis using Python during a university project, resulting in actionable insights to improve campus recycling programs.

Mid-level candidates

If you have a range of paid experience, provide examples of how you've applied specific analytical skills in your previous roles. Show your skill development by discussing how you've expanded your skill set over time, such as learning new data analysis tools or methodologies relevant to your field.

Leveraged data analytics to optimize supply chain processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in costs over two years.

Senior professionals

If you’re applying for a senior position, you want to demonstrate your leadership in analytical roles. Focus on how your analytical skills have contributed to strategic decision-making and leadership, and highlight the impact of your analytical skills on company goals, such as improving efficiency, increasing revenue, or driving innovation.

Guided a team in the implementation of advanced data modeling techniques, enhancing predictive capabilities by 25%.

Spread the word

How to include military experience on a resume, does your experience counts as work experience (+ examples), keep reading, how to show bilingualism on your resume (with examples), oops what to do if there’s a mistake on your resume, getting the basics right: resume line spacing, subscribe to our newsletter.

Stay updated with Resume Worded by signing up for our newsletter.

🎉 Awesome! Now check your inbox and click the link to confirm your subscription.

Please enter a valid email address

Oops! There was an error sending the email, please try later

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

• Career Blog

Logical Thinking in the Workplace: A Complete Guide for 2024

In any workplace, logical thinking plays a vital role in ensuring the success and effectiveness of everyday operations. Logical thinking involves the use of reasoning, critical thinking and deduction to solve problems and make decisions based on sound principles and evidence-based facts.

In the modern workplace, the pace of business is faster than ever before, and employees are consistently faced with complex issues that require quick and effective problem-solving skills. Logical thinking helps employees to analyze data, identify patterns and make decisions that are based on facts, rather than simply relying on gut instincts or assumptions.

Importance of Logical Thinking in the Workplace

The ability to think logically is crucial for success in the workplace, regardless of an individual’s profession or industry. When employees are logical thinkers, they can communicate effectively, break down complex information into manageable pieces, and apply insights and ideas in the best interest of the company.

Benefits of Logical Thinking in the Workplace

Employees who are skilled in logical thinking can identify problems more easily, create efficient solutions and make informed decisions based on the company’s strategic goals. Furthermore, logical thinking facilitates a working environment of collaboration, creativity, and innovation, leading to improved teamwork and job satisfaction.

Definition of Logical Thinking

Logical thinking is a cognitive process of evaluating information and situations and making decisions based on empirical evidence and sound principles. It involves collecting and analyzing data, identifying trends and making inferences based on objective facts, and drawing conclusions based on the insight gained through logical analysis. Logical thinking typically involves breaking down complex problems into simpler components, and then applying reasoning and problem-solving techniques to identify the best possible solutions.

Logical thinking is a fundamental skill that is essential for success in the workplace. By providing a strong framework for problem-solving and decision-making, logical thinking can lead to increased efficiency, productivity, job satisfaction, and overall success in any organization.

The Role of Logical Thinking in the Workplace

In order to succeed in the workplace, you need to be able to think logically. Logical thinking is the process of using reasoning and critical thinking skills to arrive at a conclusion. It involves separating the facts from the opinions and analyzing the evidence in order to make informed decisions.

A. Understanding the Impact of Logical Thinking on the Workplace

Logical thinking plays a crucial role in the workplace. It helps individuals to solve problems, make decisions, and communicate effectively with colleagues and clients. Logical thinking is essential for achieving success in many different fields, from science and engineering to business and finance.

B. Types of Logical Thinking Used in the Workplace

In the workplace, there are several types of logical thinking that are commonly used. These include deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, and abductive reasoning.

Deductive reasoning involves drawing conclusions based on a set of premises or assumptions. For example, if you know that all dogs are mammals, and you observe a new animal with fur and four legs, you can logically deduce that it is a mammal.

Inductive reasoning involves drawing conclusions based on patterns and observations. For example, if you observe that every time you turn off your computer, it stops working, you can logically induct that turning off the computer is causing it to stop working.

Abductive reasoning involves making educated guesses based on incomplete information. This type of reasoning is often used in problem-solving situations where the individual does not have all the facts. For example, if a client complains about a product malfunction, you can use abductive reasoning to narrow down the possible causes of the problem.

C. Examples of Logical Thinking Applied in the Workplace

In the workplace, logical thinking is applied in a variety of situations. Here are some examples:

• A sales manager uses deductive reasoning to determine which sales techniques are most effective with different types of clients.
• An engineer uses inductive reasoning to develop a new product design based on previous successful designs.
• A marketer uses abductive reasoning to figure out what might be causing a drop in customer engagement with a new advertising campaign.

Logical thinking is an essential skill for success in the workplace. By understanding the impact of logical thinking, the types of logical thinking used in the workplace, and examples of logical thinking applied in the workplace, individuals can develop this skill and use it to their advantage in their career.

Key Elements of Logical Thinking

Applying logical thinking in the workplace can help you make sound decisions, solve complex problems, and enhance your critical thinking skills. In this section, we will discuss the six key elements of logical thinking that can help you become a more effective problem solver.

A. Identifying the Problem or Situation

The first step in logical thinking is identifying and defining the problem or situation that needs to be solved. This involves asking the right questions, gathering information, and understanding the context of the problem. It is important to be clear and specific about the problem to avoid confusion and misinterpretation.

B. Gathering and Analyzing Information

Once you have identified the problem, the next step is to gather and analyze information related to the problem. Gathering information involves collecting data from relevant sources such as documents, reports, and interviews. Analyzing the information involves evaluating its relevance, reliability, and validity. This helps you gain a better understanding of the problem and identify potential solutions.

C. Identifying Assumptions

Assumptions are beliefs or ideas that people take for granted without questioning them. Identifying and challenging assumptions is an important step in logical thinking. Assumptions can be based on personal biases, stereotypes or incomplete information. By identifying and analyzing assumptions, you can gain a more accurate understanding of the problem and avoid making hasty conclusions.

D. Establishing Criteria for Making Decisions

Once you have a clear understanding of the problem and have gathered relevant information, the next step is to establish criteria for making decisions. Criteria are the standards or guidelines that are used to evaluate different alternatives. This involves considering factors such as feasibility, cost, benefits, and risks.

E. Analyzing and Evaluating Alternatives

After establishing criteria, the next step is to identify and analyze different alternatives to address the problem. This involves evaluating the pros and cons of each alternative and determining its suitability for the situation. It is important to consider the potential outcomes of each alternative and their impact on the organization.

F. Making Deductive and Inductive Reasoning

Deductive and inductive reasoning are two types of logical reasoning that can be useful in decision-making. Deductive reasoning involves using general principles or rules to make specific predictions or conclusions. Inductive reasoning involves using specific observations or data to make generalizations or hypotheses. Both types of reasoning can be used to support decisions, depending on the context of the problem.

Applying logical thinking in the workplace involves a systematic approach to problem-solving that involves identifying the problem, gathering and analyzing information, challenging assumptions, establishing criteria, evaluating alternatives, and using deductive and inductive reasoning. By using these key elements, you can develop your critical thinking skills and become a more effective decision-maker.

Tips for Developing Logical Thinking Skills

The ability to think logically is a critical skill in the workplace. It allows individuals to evaluate complex situations and make sound decisions with limited information. Here are five tips for developing logical thinking skills:

A. Identify Biases and Assumptions

Everyone has biases and assumptions that influence their thinking. These can lead to flawed conclusions and decisions. The first step in developing logical thinking skills is to recognize and acknowledge these biases and assumptions. This can be done through introspection, seeking feedback from others, and engaging in conversations that challenge preconceived notions.

B. Applying Critical Thinking Strategies

Critical thinking is the application of logical and systematic analysis to information to reach well-reasoned conclusions. It involves questioning assumptions, evaluating evidence, and considering alternative perspectives. To apply critical thinking strategies in the workplace, individuals should learn to ask effective questions, gather and analyze data, and make informed decisions based on sound reasoning.

C. Encouraging Creativity

Creative thinking is essential to developing innovative solutions and strategies. It involves generating new ideas, looking at things from different perspectives, and exploring unconventional approaches. To encourage creativity in the workplace, individuals should be open to new ideas, collaborate with others, and create an environment that values experimentation and risk-taking.

D. Practicing Analytical and Reasoning Skills

Analytical and reasoning skills are necessary to evaluate complex information and make informed decisions. It involves breaking down complex problems, identifying patterns and trends, and evaluating the potential impact of different scenarios. To practice analytical and reasoning skills, individuals should work on puzzles, engage in thought experiments, and seek out opportunities to analyze data and solve problems.

E. Enhancing Resilience

Resilience is the ability to recover from adversity and setbacks. It involves maintaining a positive attitude, adapting to change, and persevering through difficult circumstances. Enhancing resilience requires cultivating a growth mindset, building strong relationships, and developing coping strategies to manage stress and setbacks.

Developing logical thinking skills is an ongoing process that requires self-awareness, critical thinking strategies, creativity, analytical and reasoning skills, and resilience. By practicing these skills, individuals can make well-informed decisions, solve complex problems, and contribute to a more effective and productive workplace.

Techniques to Improve Logical Thinking in the Workplace

In any workplace, logical thinking is an essential skill that employees need to have to make informed decisions and solve problems effectively. Employers should take steps to help their workforce improve their logical thinking skills to enhance their overall performance. Here are five techniques that can help in improving logical thinking in the workplace:

A. Socratic Questioning

Socratic questioning is a cognitive approach to critical thinking that can be helpful in the workplace. This method involves asking strategic questions that require deep reflection and exploration of a particular idea or issue. Employers can train their employees to use this technique to improve their ability to process information and identify potential problems or weak points.

B. SWOT Analysis

SWOT analysis is a tool used to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of a business or project. It promotes logical thinking by breaking the problem down into manageable parts, which helps in finding potential solutions, and helps employees identify what the organization or a project needs to work on, and what can be leveraged for success.

C. Mind Mapping

Mind mapping is a creative approach to organizing information visually. The process involves brainstorming ideas and then connecting them through diagrams, graphs, or other graphical representations. Mind mapping can help in logical thinking by allowing employees to approach a problem from multiple perspectives and connections, which can be useful in identifying potential solutions.

D. Flowcharting

Flowcharting is a visual representation of a process or system that can be used to highlight the various steps involved in a project or task. It enables logical thinking by providing an overview of the entire process, and the flow of events that lead to a successful outcome. It’s a helpful technique for employees who need to troubleshoot complex tasks with heavy dependencies.

E. Fishbone Diagram

Fishbone diagram or Ishikawa diagram is a problem-solving tool that helps individuals identify possible causes of an issue. In this technique, the problem is identified at the head of a fishbone shape, and contributing factors are shown on the bone itself. By detailing the problem and its causes, employees can gain a better understanding of the issue and the necessary steps for finding solutions.

Improving logical thinking in the workplace is crucial for any organization’s success. Using these techniques can help employees develop stronger analytical and critical thinking skills while promoting problem-solving abilities. With the right training and tools, employees can become more efficient and effective at their jobs, creating a more productive and innovative workforce.

Barriers to Logical Thinking in the Workplace

As important as logical thinking is in the workplace, various barriers can make it challenging to achieve. These barriers can stem from a negative mindset and attitudes, resistance to change, fear and uncertainty, poor communication and collaboration, and organizational culture.

A. Negative Mindset and Attitudes

Negativity is a significant barrier to logical thinking in the workplace. Employees with a negative mindset and attitude may exhibit pessimism, apathy, and low morale. Such employees may shy away from taking responsibility for tasks or take on tasks with minimal effort, which can lead to mistakes, missed opportunities, and subpar results.

B. Resistance to Change

Inertia often sets in when change is introduced into the workplace. Employees may resist changes in job roles, procedures, or technology, making it challenging to apply logical thinking to adapt to change. Rather than welcoming the change and the opportunity it presents, employees may grumble, question, or outright reject it, hindering the development of logical thinking skills.

C. Fear and Uncertainty

Fear and uncertainty are common problems in the workplace that limit logical thinking ability. Fear and uncertainty in the workplace may arise from various factors, including job insecurity, pending layoffs, or lack of job satisfaction. Employees facing such fears may avoid undertaking new responsibilities, fail to communicate effectively with colleagues, or restrict their contributions, limiting their and the organization’s potential.

D. Poor Communication and Collaboration

Communication and collaboration are essential aspects of logical thinking in the workplace. Poor communication and collaboration practices limit organizational productivity, and can hinder the adoption of logical thinking strategies. Employees may misunderstand or misinterpret one another, leading to errors, burnout, and low morale.

E. Organizational Culture

Organizational culture is the collective attitudes, values, and beliefs that shape the workplace environment. A workplace culture that does not prioritize logical thinking may limit employees’ ability to think critically, participate actively in problem-solving, or even stigmatize logical thinking’s importance. Organizations must nurture a culture of logical thinking that promotes openness, creativity, and innovation to remove the barriers to logical thinking in the workplace.

The barriers to logical thinking in the workplace are significant and multifaceted. Organizational leaders must create an environment that supports and nurtures logical thinking, promoting teamwork, communication, and collaboration to remove the barriers and empower employees to think critically, solve problems, and achieve results.

Examples of Logical Thinking in the Workplace

Logical thinking is essential in the workplace to help companies make informed decisions and solve complex problems. Here are five examples of how logical thinking is applied in various aspects of the workplace.

A. Analyzing Data to Improve Operations

Data analysis is a key component of logical thinking in the workplace. By examining data, companies can identify patterns, understand trends, and make data-driven decisions to improve operations. For example, a company may analyze sales data to identify the best-selling products, which can help improve inventory management and boost profits.

B. Developing Strategies to Address Business Challenges

Logical thinking also plays a crucial role in developing strategies to address business challenges. Companies must identify the root cause of a problem and develop a practical solution. By using analysis and critical thinking, businesses can develop effective strategies to address various challenges, such as declining sales or production issues.

C. Exploring New Market Opportunities

Companies must be able to adapt and keep up with changing market trends. A key aspect of logical thinking is the ability to identify new market opportunities and trends accurately. By exploring new market opportunities, companies can expand and grow, ultimately leading to increased profits.

D. Identifying Root Causes of Problems

Logical thinking is also used in identifying the root causes of problems. Often, issues occur because of more than one factor, making it challenging to identify the primary cause. By using logical thinking, companies can analyze data, gather insights, and identify the root cause of any problem, making it easier to develop effective solutions.

E. Enhancing Customer Experience

Logical thinking is also essential when it comes to enhancing customer experience. By analyzing customer behavior and feedback, companies can develop personalized strategies to improve the customer experience. For example, a company may use data analysis to identify common customer issues, enabling them to develop customized solutions that address the needs of individual customers.

Logical thinking is a valuable skill that plays a crucial role in various aspects of the workplace. Whether analyzing data, developing strategies or addressing business challenges, logical thinking is an essential skill for success in any line of work. Using the examples shared above, businesses can optimize their operations, increase customer satisfaction, and grow their business in today’s competitive market.

Related Articles

• Pastor Resume: A Winning Example for 2023
• Top 20 Area Manager Resume Samples for 2023
• 35 Bank Manager Job Description & Duties for 2023
• Temporary Employees: What You Need to Know in 2023
• Maintenance Mechanic: Job Description and Skills

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

What Are Logical Thinking Skills?

• Logical Skills
• Promotional Skills
• Bookkeeping Skills
• Typing Skills
• Sales Skills
• Science And Math Skills
• Physical Strength And Dexterity Skills
• Customer Service Skills
• Instructional Skills
• Logical-Thinking Skills
• Mechanical Skills
• Memorization Skills
• Motivational Skills
• Artistic Talent

Find a Job You Really Want In

When people hear the phrase “logical thinking,” they typically assume lawyers, mathematicians, philosophers, and doctors. That’s not wrong; it’s just incomplete.

Logical thinking is a foundational skill that we all use every single day. From the moment we wake up in the morning to the moment we fall asleep at night, we utilize logical thinking skills.

Logic comes from the Greek word logos, meaning “thought” or “reason.” Many of our decisions and thought processes are based on logic. So much so that you may not even realize you are using logical thinking at the moment.

Driving to work, shopping at the grocery store, purchasing a new appliance, or trying to solve even the most minuscule problems involves logical thinking skills.

Even as you read through this article, comprehending the words and concepts being presented, you are using your logical thinking skills.

Key Takeaways:

Logical thinking is the process of observing, analyzing, and then drawing conclusions based on those inferences.

There are many different kinds of logic and logical thinking, including: formal logic, informal logic, mathematical logic, inference, inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning, abductive reasoning, and critical thinking.

Logic skills help influence both hard and soft skills, such as technical knowledge and communication.

Logic is a skill that can be developed with practice and persistence.

Logic is the process of thinking and drawing conclusions, but that doesn’t mean the conclusions are always right.

What Is Logical Thinking?

Why are logical thinking skills important, how to build logical thinking skills.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

Logical thinking is the process of observing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions based on those inferences. To put it in the simplest of terms, logical thinking uses facts and evidence to reach a conclusion or solution; it is the use of both logic and reasoning in your thought processes.

Merriam-Webster defines logic as “a science that deals with the principles and criteria of validity of inference and demonstration: the science of the formal principles of reasoning.” The Oxford dictionary defines it more simply: “a way of thinking or explaining something.”

We could define logical thinking as the act of using logic in one’s thought processes. It’s simple, to the point, sure. But it doesn’t answer the question.

There are many different kinds of logic and logical thinking, including:

Formal logic. We usually consider formal logic the more “traditional” type of logic. Sometimes referred to as philosophical logic, it has to do with logic based on the argument informal settings.

Informal logic. Similar to formal logic, informal logic is the use of logic outside of the formal settings or in everyday settings.

Mathematical logic. This is a subfield of mathematics that focuses on formal logic as it pertains to mathematical applications. Learn more about how mathematical skills can help you at work .

Inference. This is a process that infers a logical conclusion based on a premise, not explicit statements. To infer is to deduce, or conclude, based on evidence and reasoning.

Inductive reasoning. This is a logical thinking process that forms generalizations based on specific observations known to be true or false. Dive deeper into inductive reasoning .

Deductive reasoning. This uses formal logic to prove, or disprove, a theory. It begins with a theory or hypothesis and seeks to support the observations. Think Sherlock Holmes or scientists. Get a better understanding of deductive reasoning .

Abductive reasoning. Similar to deductive reasoning, abductive reasoning seeks to prove observations. This is typically done in a “bottom-up” direction as opposed to deductive’s “top-down.”

Critical thinking. This is an analysis of facts and evidence to form a judgment or reach a conclusion. See how critical thinking skills can make you a better job candidate .

We may think of logical reasoning skills as something we either have or we don’t. And, while some may be more prone to logical thinking, it is a skill that can be learned and improved.

Logical thinking is an essential foundational skill. It is used in everyday life. We see logical thinking in mathematics, reading comprehension, and everyday decision-making . Logical thinking allows you to solve problems, set goals, and reason through decisions.

It can even assist in creative thinking and so much more. This skill is not only important for your career but your life.

Employers look for candidates that display strong sought-after soft skills. Soft skills differ from technical skills , though share similarities with known transferable skills . They are personal attributes/traits or habits as opposed to learned skills. That is not to say that soft skills can’t be learned or strengthened – they certainly can.

Unlike soft skills , hard skills , or technical skills, are always attained. They are not skills that come naturally to anyone; though some people can be more naturally adept at certain hard skills than others.

You’ll often find these soft skills listed in job descriptions:

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Critical thinking skills

Problem-solving skills

Logical reasoning skills

It is not difficult to see why this is a skill employers highly covet – it is frequently listed in the sought-after soft skills. There is a lot of value in employees who display strong logic and reasoning skills. Those who utilize logical thinking are better able to make decisions based on fact as opposed to emotion.

Cognitive skills, or cognitive functions, are core skills that your brain uses to do most everything. Without cognitive skills, we cannot process information, preventing us from learning, understanding, retaining, or reasoning. Logic and reasoning are part of these base cognitive skills.

It was long thought that cognitive skills were concrete. Much like IQ, we believed that the cognitive functions you were born with were what you were stuck with. We know now that this is not true. The brain is a muscle like any other; cognitive skills can be strengthened with work.

Question everything. You can begin to build and strengthen your logical thinking skills by questioning everything. Ask yourself why. Stop making assumptions and begin to reason through your decisions and judgments. Verify facts and separate them from opinion.

You can get a more complete view of things when you start asking questions. You’ll be more aware of your thought processes and improve your ability to approach problems with both logic and creativity – a skill that will most certainly help you work more efficiently.

Make a habit of pausing and thinking things through before you act. If you take a moment to think through your reasoning logically, you will inevitably strengthen your logic and reasoning skills.

Do logic exercises. The best way to strengthen a muscle is to work it. The same applies to a skill such as logical thinking. There are many ways to incorporate logic exercises into your daily routine. The more you practice, the stronger this skill will become.

Games like Sudoku and puzzles are an excellent way to practice your logical thinking skills. There are plenty of apps out there that utilize logic and reasoning as well.

Puzzle games, math games, card games, and word games can all strengthen this skill without feeling like work. Brain teasers and riddles can help you start to think more critically as well.

If you’re looking for more complicated logic exercises, consider free LSAT drills. Logic and reasoning skills are the basis of the LSAT exam; even the writing section requires logical reasoning to interpret and answer the prompt.

Try your hand at some Logic Games from the Analytical Reasoning section or answer some questions from the Logical Reasoning section. You can even use the Reading Comprehension section to help strengthen your logical thinking skills. Reading comprehension exercises from any exam or workbook will suffice.

Expand your perspective. Socializing, building new relationships, and studying new cultures can all expand your perspective and develop your logical reasoning skills.

By seeing things from just one perspective (yours) you are doing yourself a disservice. You may see a different way to approach situations and analyze things differently when you open yourself up to different perspectives.

You may be better able to separate facts from opinions (including personal opinion) and approach situations more logically than you may have before.

Get creative. Despite their being associated with a different hemisphere of the brain, creative thinking and creative activities can help encourage problem-solving, which promotes logical thinking.

Painting, learning or playing an instrument, and writing are all creative outlets. They are not solely right hemisphere activities, though. They all require the use of both logic and creativity. When participating in creative activities you enjoy, you can strengthen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills naturally.

Music is a language all its own; one you must learn before you can play any instrument. Writing requires you to think creatively while using language. You use your imagination and your visualization skills while also focusing on facts and linear thinking.

Both activities are firmly planted in both traditionally left-brained and traditionally right-brained activity.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Samantha is a lifelong writer who has been writing professionally for the last six years. After graduating with honors from Greensboro College with a degree in English & Communications, she went on to find work as an in-house copywriter for several companies including Costume Supercenter, and Blueprint Education.

Recent Job Searches

• Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
• Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
• Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
• Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
• Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
• Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Company Driver Jobs Resume

Related posts

How To Include Attentiveness As A Skill On Your Resume

15 Time Management Techniques That Work

The Most Important Sales Skills (With Examples)

How To Develop A Culture Of Alertness In The Workplace

• Career Advice >
• Resume Skills >
• Defined Skills >

More From Forbes

How to list strengths and skills on your resume in 2024.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Strategically and concisely place your skills throughout your resume to demonstrate what you're ... [+] capable of in an easy-to-read manner and to save space

One of the most crucial components of a resume is your strengths and skills section.

So many candidates make the mistake of only speaking to what they did in their work experience, but hardly any mention of what skills they developed or demonstrated within their roles. Including these skills can make all the difference between your application landing in the shortlisting pile or not.

But how exactly do you showcase your strengths and skills within your resume?

When deciding what work skills to include in your resume, and how to structure and place them strategically, there are a few conventions you need to follow and bear in mind:

1. Ensure Relevance

There's no use in listing any and every skill you've ever developed since the start of your career. You've likely built dozens of skills—but that doesn't necessarily mean that you need to include all of them. To help you decide which ones need to be excluded in an effort to keep your resume brief and concise, look at the requirements and qualifications listed in the job advert, and tailor your skills section accordingly.

See Shooting Stars From Halley s Comet As Top Meteor Shower Peaks

Ukrolancet drones blitz russian air defenses, fallout review amazon prime video i have some good news, 2. create a skills section.

Create a dedicated section for your skills and strengths. You may title it "Skills" or "Skills Highlights." While it is essential to include examples of your skills all throughout the resume, it's also important to have this separate section so that it stands out to recruiters. Place this section near the top of your resume, after the professional profile, and before you delve into your work experience.

3. Group By Category

For ease of reading and scannability purposes, you may find it more effective to categorize your strengths and skills under relevant headings, particularly if you have quite a few. For example, you can say, "Technical Skills: Adobe Photoshop, Figma, Canva, MS Office," etc. Or, if you are bilingual or multilingual, you can save space on your resume (depending on layout of course) by grouping your skills and proficiency levels under languages.

4. Balance Soft And Hard Skills

If you work in an industry that tends to have a firm reliance and emphasis on "hard," technical skills, such as the technology industry, or manufacturing, it's pretty easy to overlook soft skills, also known as power skills.

However, according to CompTIA , the professional certification body for IT certifications, soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, organization, and project management, are needed more than you realize for—yes you read right—even largely technical jobs.

For instance, communication is necessary so that you can effectively liaise with project and product managers, and other non-technical stakeholders, so it's important to showcase instances of your communication skills in action, on your resume.

5. Update Periodically

We tend to forget how amazing we are as humans. The business and rush of life can frequently overwhelm us, and we get so lost in doing work, that we forget to take note of what we've actually achieved. If you've been suddenly laid off and are scrambling to find what strengths, achievements, and skills to list on your resume, chances are, you've been a victim of this very habit.

So, every now and then, review your resume and give it a refresh. Do this exercise every time you complete a certification or training course, learn a new skill at work, or achieve something remarkable in your professional life. This ensures your resume is always up to date, so that you're never caught out, forgetting what strengths and skills you actually possess.

Every time you learn a new skill or gain a certification, update your resume—you never know when it ... [+] will be needed

Ultimately, your skills section should complement the rest of your resume—and where you lack space, you can strategically include your skills throughout other sections as well. This will help to paint a comprehensive picture of your suitability for the role.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Beyond The Resume: 15 Interview Questions To Assess Critical Thinking

• October 9, 2023
• Easy.Jobs , Guide

As we all know, resumes serve as the initial gateway to potential candidates from the birth of the recruiting system. However, recruiters understand that hiring the right talent involves more than just matching keywords on a piece of paper. It requires a comprehensive assessment of a candidate’s skills, abilities, and, perhaps most importantly, their capacity for critical thinking. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the art of interviewing, exploring how recruiters can move beyond the resume and employ a set of 15 interview questions to assess critical thinking skills.

💡 What Are Fundamentals To Assess Critical Thinking?

Before we explore specific interview questions to assess critical thinking capabilities of candidates, it’s important to understand the basics of critical thinking. Critical thinking involves analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information objectively to make informed decisions and solve problems effectively. 

It combines analytical, creative, and logical thinking skills to navigate complex situations. To improve your critical thinking skills, it’s essential to grasp the key components of this cognitive process, which include:

i. Break It Down: First and foremost, you need to simplify complex information to grasp its structure and connections easily.

ii. Assess & Compare: Evaluate arguments, ideas, or solutions based on evidence and logic, considering their strengths and weaknesses.

iii. Connect The Dots: Draw logical conclusions from the information and evidence available. Search relevancy between the information & evidence you have gathered.

iv. Explain Clearly: Articulate your thought processes and conclusions in a way that’s easy for others to understand.

v. Solve Problems: Problem-solving skill is a prominent aspect of critical thinking. Identify issues, explore potential solutions, and make informed decisions.

vi. Think Outside The Box: Foster creativity to generate fresh ideas and approaches when faced with challenges.

📋 Different Types Of Critical Thinking Interview Questions

There are four main types/scenarios where we can categorize interview questions to help assess critical thinking skills. Those are situational, behavioral, hypothetical, & puzzle/brain teaser. In the upcoming section, we’ll allocate our 15 interview questions to assess critical thinking.

• Situational Questions: Questions that present hypothetical scenarios related to the job role to assess a candidate’s problem-solving abilities and decision-making process.
• Behavioral Questions: These questions inquire about a candidate’s past experiences and actions, aiming to predict their future behavior in similar situations.
• Hypothetical Questions : A set of questions that are designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to think on their feet and approach novel, unfamiliar situations.
• Puzzle & Brain Teaser Questions: These questions are being asked to test a candidate’s critical thinking, logic, and creativity. This type of critical interview question often involves solving mathematical problems, logic puzzles, or answering riddles.

💡 Top 15 Interview Questions To Assess Critical Thinking Of An Interviewee

As hiring managers and recruiters seek individuals who can take challenges, solve problems, and drive innovation, the art of assessing critical thinking during interviews has become paramount. With that said, we’ve compiled 15 questions (categorized into 4 different types) to assess critical thinking skills of an interviewee. 

• Behavioral Questions To Ask A Candidate (With Answers) 

To identify candidates with exceptional critical thinking skills, behavioral questions provide valuable insights. These questions delve into a candidate’s past experiences, offering glimpses of their problem-solving prowess and decision-making abilities.

Question 1: Share an experience where you encountered a multifaceted challenge in your previous role. How did you tackle it, and what strategies did you employ to reach a resolution?

How To Answer:

✅ Begin by describing the specific problem you faced and its complexity.

✅ Outline the steps you took to analyze the issue, including any research or data gathering.

✅ Highlight your decision-making process, showcasing how you weighed the pros and cons.

✅ Conclude with the positive outcome achieved through your critical thinking and problem-solving.

Question 2: Share an instance when you confronted unexpected shifts or adversities in your professional journey. How did you navigate these hurdles, and what takeaways did you gain from this experience?

✅ Narrate the situation, emphasizing the pressure and constraints involved.

✅ Describe your approach to gathering relevant information quickly.

✅ Explain how you prioritized factors and considered potential consequences.

✅ Conclude by highlighting the successful outcome achieved through your decision-making and critical thinking.

Question 3: Share a scenario where you identified an inefficiency or flaw in a process or project. How did you go about improving it, and what were the results?

✅ Present the context and the inefficiency you observed.

✅ Detail your critical analysis of the issue and the factors contributing to it.

✅ Explain your strategy for improvement and the steps you took to implement it.

✅ Conclude by showcasing the positive impact of your critical thinking on the project or process.

Question 4: Tell us about a time when you had to adapt to unexpected changes or challenges at work. How did you navigate these hurdles, and what lessons did you learn from the experience?

✅ Describe the unexpected challenges and their impact on your work.

✅ Explain your flexible approach to adapting to the changes.

✅ Highlight the critical thinking skills you applied to overcome obstacles.

✅ Conclude with the valuable lessons learned and how they’ve influenced your problem-solving approach.

✅ These behavioral questions and their corresponding answers provide a comprehensive view of a candidate’s critical thinking abilities and their capacity to navigate complex situations effectively.

• Situational Questions To Ask A Candidate (With Answers)

Asking a few situational questions can be incredibly effective while evaluating candidates’ critical thinking skills in an interview. These questions prompt candidates to analyze complex scenarios and provide well-thought-out responses. For example:

Question 5: Imagine you are leading a project, and a key team member suddenly resigns just weeks before a critical deadline. What do you do now to handle the situation?

✅ Acknowledge the challenge and potential impact.

✅ Redistribute tasks and responsibilities to the rest of the members

✅ Identify interim solutions to maintain project progress.

✅ Communicate transparently with stakeholders about the situation.

✅ Emphasize adaptability, quick decision-making, and project integrity.

Question 6: You’re a customer service representative, and a client is unhappy due to a product defect that’s beyond your control to fix immediately. How would you do right now with this irate customer?

✅ Express empathy and actively listen to the customer’s concerns.

✅ Explain the situation honestly and what steps are being taken to address it.

✅ Offer alternative solutions or escalate the matter if needed.

✅ Ensure the customer feels heard and valued throughout the interaction.

✅ Highlight de-escalation skills and finding constructive resolutions.

Question 7: You’re a project manager, and your team is divided over two conflicting approaches to a critical project decision. How would you resolve this disagreement?

✅ Facilitate open dialogue among team members, encouraging them to present arguments.

✅ Evaluate options objectively, considering long-term consequences.

✅ Arrive at a consensus or make a well-justified decision.

✅ Mediate conflicts and prioritize project goals.

✅ Emphasize teamwork and conflict resolution.

Question 8: As a marketing manager, your company faces a sudden negative social media backlash due to a controversial campaign. How would you respond to protect the brand’s reputation?

✅ Acknowledge the issue publicly and express concern.

✅ Investigate the situation thoroughly, involving relevant stakeholders.

✅ Formulate a transparent and empathetic response.

✅ Commit to learning from the incident and implementing preventive measures.

✅ Showcase crisis management skills and turn challenges into opportunities for improvement.

• Hypothetical Questions To Ask A Candidate (With Answers)

In assessing critical thinking during interviews, it’s essential to challenge candidates with hypothetical scenarios that demand thoughtful analysis and problem-solving skills. 

Question 9: Imagine you are managing a team project with tight deadlines, and a key team member unexpectedly resigns. What steps would you take to ensure the project’s successful completion, considering both the immediate and long-term implications?

✅ Start by acknowledging the urgency of the situation and the impact of the team member’s departure.

✅ Discuss how you would quickly assess the remaining resources and skills within the team.

✅ Emphasize your ability to adapt and redistribute responsibilities effectively.

✅ Mention your communication strategy to inform stakeholders and maintain transparency.

✅ Conclude by highlighting your commitment to achieving project goals while also addressing the team’s morale and well-being.

Question 10: You’re a marketing manager, and your company’s new product launch is receiving negative online reviews and backlash. How would you approach this crisis, and what steps would you take to mitigate the situation?

✅ Begin by emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue promptly and transparently.

✅ Discuss your strategy for analyzing the root causes of the negative feedback.

✅ Mention how you’d prioritize and execute a response plan, including social media engagement and public statements.

✅ Emphasize your commitment to learning from the feedback and implementing necessary changes.

✅ Conclude by highlighting your focus on preserving the brand’s reputation and rebuilding trust.

Question 11: You are a project manager working on a high-stakes project with a limited budget. Unexpectedly, a crucial vendor increases their prices midway through the project. How would you handle this situation to ensure project success within budget constraints?

✅ Start by acknowledging the budget constraints and the vendor’s pricing change.

✅ Discuss your approach to negotiating with the vendor, exploring alternative solutions, or seeking cost reductions.

✅ Emphasize your risk management strategies and contingency plans in case negotiations fail.

✅ Mention your communication plan to update stakeholders on the situation and potential impacts.

✅ Conclude by highlighting your commitment to delivering the project on time and within budget, even in challenging circumstances.

Question 12: You’re a sales manager, and a key client threatens to terminate their contract due to unresolved service issues. How would you handle this critical client relationship and work towards retaining their business?

✅ Start by acknowledging the importance of the client relationship and the urgency of the situation.

✅ Discuss your strategy for actively listening to the client’s concerns and addressing them promptly.

✅ Mention how you’d collaborate with relevant teams to resolve the service issues.

✅ Emphasize your dedication to providing exceptional service and exceeding the client’s expectations.

✅ Conclude by highlighting your long-term relationship-building approach and the steps you’d take to ensure client satisfaction and retention.

• Brainstorming Questions To Ask A Candidate ( With Answers)

To measure the critical thinking skills of a candidate, the interviewer often asks puzzle and brain teaser questions. By asking these questions, the interviewer assesses critical thinking abilities of candidates. For example:

Question 13: You have two wooden planks, each measuring 4 feet in length. They are not of equal thickness. You need to use these planks to cross a 5-foot-wide chasm. How do you manage now?

Combine the two planks to create a bridge, placing one end on the starting side and the other end on the destination side. Utilize the thicker part of one plank to support the thinner part of the other, effectively forming a stable crossing.

Question 14: You have two jugs, one that can hold exactly 3 liters of water and another that can hold exactly 5 liters of water. How can you measure exactly 4 liters of water using only these two jugs?

This riddle evaluates a candidate’s ability to think creatively and work with limited resources. The solution requires a series of precise steps to fill, pour, and combine the water in both jugs to achieve the desired volume of 4 liters.

Question 15: You are in a room with three light switches, each controlling a different light bulb in another room. You can’t see the bulbs from where you are. You need to determine which switch corresponds to which bulb, but you are only allowed to enter the other room once. How do you do it?

Turn on the first switch and leave it on for a few minutes. To determine which switch controls which bulb, start by turning off the first switch if it’s on, and then turn on the second switch. Afterward, enter the adjacent room with the three bulbs. The bulb currently lit up corresponds to the second switch, while the bulb that is switched off but still warm belongs to the first switch. Lastly, the bulb that is switched off and cold corresponds to the third switch.  This way, you can identify each switch’s association with the bulbs with a single entry into the other room.

Note: These are just 3 examples; they’ll vary from situation to situation.

🧠 Mastering Critical Thinking In Interviews: Your Path To Success

By incorporating these interview questions, you can easily assess critical thinking capabilities and skills of the candidates. Remember, in today’s dynamic professional world, critical thinkers are the driving force behind innovation and success. As you embark on your quest for top talent , these questions will be your compass, guiding you toward individuals who can truly make a difference.

If you have found this blog helpful, share your opinion with our Facebook community . You can subscribe to our blogs for valuable tutorials, guides, knowledge, tips, and the latest recruitment updates.

Shahidul Islam

Share this story.

Best Talent Attraction Tips for Small Business Hiring Teams in 2024

The Power of Employee Experience (EX) & Why Does it Matter In 2024?

Future of BI: Top 10 Business Intelligence Trends To Watch in 2024

How to Create a Business Email: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Products by wpdeveloper.

Essential Addons

Enhance your Elementor page building experience with 70+ elements.

NotificationX

Best FOMO, Social Proof, Sales Popup for WooCommerce, EDD and more.

Best Documentation & Knowledge Base Plugin for WordPress.

Join 15,000+

Remote Companies

Subscribe For The Latest Updates About Remote Works

No charge. Unsubscribe anytime.

For All Plans

See the demo for entire easy.jobs platform, select, hire, and onboard great talent.

• Documentation
• Terms and Condition
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 | Brand From

Hosted with

10 Most In-Demand Soft Skills to Put on Your Resume

L ong gone are the days when listing hard skills was the best (and oftentimes only) way to get your foot in the door at a prestigious company. While technical knowledge and training will always be important, soft skills (or essentially personality traits) are becoming increasingly important to highlight on your resume. And it makes sense, as more companies prioritize work culture and, therefore, the personalities of those they’re hiring.

But which soft skills are the ones that standout the most on a resume? Using data from Indeed.com, CashNetUSA scoured job ads for 46 predetermined soft skills to find the ones that appeared the most on high-paid jobs that surpassed the 75th percentile of wages in America’s most populated cities as well as each state. These are the soft skills that came out on top.

10. Resilience

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 34.29%

Resilience is a soft skill that highlights your ability to handle stress and challenges that come up at work. 

A good example of how to add this to your resume could be, “Showed resilience when leading a team after budget cuts by still delivering work on time and within scope.”

* Data comes from a January 2024 report released by CashNetUSA .

9. Financial Management

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 38.24%

If you’ve ever been in charge of a budget of any size, you can say that you have financial management skills. 

For instance, something like “oversaw the financial management of the freelance budget” could work if you hired contractors for a specific project.

8. Innovation

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 39.24%

Sure, this one makes our eyes roll a bit, too, but in today’s fast-paced world, innovation is key. No one wants an employee that stays stagnant or, worse, digs their heels in at the slight mention of change. 

You know who’s not stagnant? Someone who “excelled at brainstorming and ideation in the innovation process for [fill in project name].” You get it.

7. Emotional Intelligence

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 43.11%

We’re actually pleasantly surprised with this one. After all, we didn’t think corporations necessarily had it in them to care about this.

Jokes aside, having emotional intelligence is something that makes a good team member and an even better manager. After all, it’s hard to resolve team conflicts without it. The more a company emphasizes a “harmonious work environment,” the more this soft skill will matter.

6. Mentoring

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 47.89%

Here’s another managerial skill that job ads like to use to weed out the haves from the have-nots when it comes to managers. Do you actually enjoy mentoring people or have you just fallen up the corporate ladder into a management position?

True leaders will make mentoring a priority and want to highlight it on their resume.

5. Critical Thinking

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 47.94%

“Critical thinking” or “problem solving” can be put in the same bucket as resilience. How did you handle a challenging situation at work? It’s even better if you have data to back up your claim.

Well, maybe you “demonstrated strong critical-thinking skills when analyzing financial reports and making forecasts for the following quarter.”

4. Presentation Skills

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 56%

Presentation skills are the nature of the beast when it comes to today's Corporate America. That's because lots of today’s high-paying jobs require working with cross-functional teams and being able to explain your work in easy, digestible terms.

Think someone on a data science team explaining their findings to a marketing team. Along with "presentation skills," you could also add the specific presentation tools or software you use for your presentations on your resume.

3. Persuasion

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 57.41%

Persuasion sounds rather seductive, but it's crucial when trying to get specific projects across the finish line.

It's also a term that's used a lot in marketing when talking about "persuasive marketing skills" required to communicate well with a customer audience.

2. Negotiation

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 58.26%

This skill goes back to business basics. Proper negotiation skills come in handy in any aspect of life, whether you're negotiating a $1 billion merger or whether or not your toddler can have dessert for breakfast.

That said, it's a skill that takes time to hone — which is why it's considered all the more valuable.

1. Strategic Thinking

Percentage of highly paid jobs requiring the skill: 64.77%

Strategic thinking is essentially a combination of innovation and critical thinking, but the best way to incorporate this keyword on your resume is by using the CAR (challenge, action, result) technique.

You could say something like, "Used strategic thinking skills by analyzing user engagement data and running an A/B test that resulted in increased engagement of 20 percent."

For more resume advice, check out "How to Make Your Resume Shine."