What Is the Difference Between Hard and Soft Skills?

The skills you include on your CV can be broken down into two categories - hard and soft skills.

Hard skills are technical abilities that are needed in order to successfully perform a particular task. These can vary depending on the exact industry and role but they are generally developed through studying or training and can often be measured.

Soft skills, however, are usually natural abilities that can be strengthened over time. They can be transferred from job to job and are considered extremely valuable to employers.

Examples of hard skills:

• Bilingual
• A degree or diploma
• Analytical skills
• First Aid qualification
• Project management skills
• Technical skills

Examples of soft skills:

• Organisational skills
• Team leadership
• Good communication
• Strong time management
• Problem solving skills
• Emotional intelligence
• Working well as part of a team

Why does it matter?

Hard skills are important to employers as they need to know that you can carry out the job in hand.

However, soft skills are equally as important as they need to know that you can fit well into their existing team, be efficient and bring something exciting to the table!

You could be great at your job but if you were consistently late or couldn't communicate well with your colleagues, this would be a big problem for your employer.

Why should I elaborate on my skills and experience?

It is all very well simply listing your skills and experience on your CV, but to increase your chances of securing an interview, you will need to elaborate on how these will benefit the specific employer that you are applying to.

If an employer receives multiple applications for one role and the candidates all have similar levels of experience, those who have spelt out exactly why they are perfect for the role will stand out from the pool of other candidates.

Some of the best ways to elaborate on your skills and experience are:

• Mention the skills and experience you have and then tell the employer why you think they will benefit their organisation.
• Give examples of how your skills and experience were put into action in the past.
• Comment on how you would like to use your skills and experience in the role you are applying for.

Who is Spencer Clarke Group? 

Since 2017, we've been changing the face of recruitment. From our employees, to the way we do business, to the culture within our office, we're determined to make a difference and create a positive impact on everyone around us.

Recruitment to us isn't just about matching candidates and clients; we’re passionate about finding candidates the perfect job which has the ability to boost their salary and standard of living, better their work life balance and improve their mental health. 

Similarly, we understand the impact which an experienced and skilled employee can make to a business and we love seeing clients thrive through the hard work of candidates which we have placed with them. 

We operate in two sectors:

Private Sector

Public Sector 

In eleven specialisms:

Accountancy & Finance

Education & SEND

Construction, Trades & Labour

Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing

Housing

Corporate Functions & Business Support

HR & Workforce Development

IT & Digital

Property & Asset Management  

Planning, Development & Regeneration 

Highways, Infrastructure & Engineering

If you’re searching for a new role, why not visit our job page to take a look at the latest opportunities? Alternatively, upload your CV and one of our experienced consultants will contact you when a relevant opportunity becomes available. 

If you’re struggling to fill a role, why don’t you give us a call on 01772 954200 to see how we can help? One of our consultants will be happy to listen to the challenges which you are facing and advise on the best possible solution for you.