5 Hard Skills To Put On Your Resume In 2025 (with Examples and Tips)

When was the last time you updated your resume’s hard skills?

In the fast-evolving world of technology, keeping your resume updated with relevant technical skills is crucial to staying competitive. Whether you’re looking to move up the corporate ladder, escape rigid return-to-office (RTO) mandates, or advance your career within a similar role, refreshing your resume at least twice a year is essential.

The tech industry is evolving rapidly, and employers' requirements are shifting just as quickly. Adapting to these changes is critical, and ensuring your resume reflects your up-to-date technical expertise will make you stand out to hiring managers. In fact, a recent Indeed report highlights that "the number of tech jobs will grow at twice the rate of the overall U.S. workforce, from 6 million in 2023 to 7.1 million in 2034."

Including the right hard skills on your resume will put you in a better position to land jobs especially remote opportunities and convince employers that you are the right candidate for their needs.

The 5 Most In-Demand Hard Skills to Include in Your Resume in 2025

According to new Indeed data, the following five tech skills have been the most in-demand over the past year:

1. Python
   Python remains a leading programming language for software development, data analysis, and automation. Its versatility across industries ensures that Python proficiency is highly sought after.

2. AWS (Amazon Web Services)
   As more businesses migrate to the cloud, AWS certifications and experience have become valuable assets. Employers look for candidates skilled in cloud architecture and cloud-based services.

3. Oracle
   With its robust database management systems, Oracle remains a key player in enterprise applications. Including Oracle on your resume demonstrates your understanding of large-scale database solutions.

4. Java
   Java is the backbone of many enterprise applications, and its relevance continues into 2025. Being proficient in Java shows employers your ability to build and maintain complex systems.

5. JavaScript
   As a cornerstone of web development, JavaScript is necessary for building responsive websites and applications. Highlighting your JavaScript expertise signals that you can handle both front-end and back-end development tasks.

While these five skills top the list, several software platforms are experiencing increased demand as well, including PyTorch, Rust, TensorFlow, Flutter, and Dart. Conversely, platforms like Xamarin, Erlang, Azure, iOS, PHP, SQLite, and React Native are seeing decreased interest from employers.

How to Effectively Highlight These Hard Skills on Your Resume

1. Showcase Real-World Projects

Creating a portfolio that demonstrates your work using these technologies is essential. For each project, include details on the tools, languages, and platforms you used. Employers love seeing practical application because it backs up the skills you’ve listed on your resume. Include links to your GitHub, portfolio website, or attach project examples if possible.

2. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job Application

Customizing your resume for every job you apply to is critical. Each role has specific technical requirements, so make sure to highlight relevant skills listed in the job description. If you have the desired skills, but don’t include them in your resume, you’re missing an opportunity. Also, if you’re learning a new skill, feel free to mention that in your resume under a “Learning” or “In Progress” section—just don’t exaggerate.

3. Include Relevant Certifications

Employers value certifications as proof of your expertise. If you’ve recently completed certifications like AWS, Oracle, or any boot camps related to the in-demand skills mentioned, be sure to list them. Don’t overlook training programs, even if they seem minor; they demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

4. Quantify Your Impact

Whenever possible, include metrics that demonstrate the impact of your skills. For example, instead of saying “Developed cloud-based solutions using AWS,” you could say “Developed cloud-based solutions using AWS, improving system efficiency by 25%.”

5. Stay Updated with Industry Trends

The key to staying relevant in the job market is continuous learning. Keep an eye on trends in technology, and always be proactive in developing new skills. Employers want candidates who are forward-thinking and adaptable, so mention any courses or workshops you're taking to stay current.

Conclusion

Hard skills will be the driving force behind your career growth in 2025 and beyond. The more up-to-date and diverse your technical expertise is, the more opportunities you’ll have. Keep polishing your skills, learning new ones, and ensuring your resume reflects the best version of your abilities.