What to Include in the Skills Section of Your Application

The skills section of your employment application is crucial for showcasing your qualifications. In this guide, we'll discuss what to include and provide practical examples tailored for legal and government positions.
By Jamie

Importance of the Skills Section

The skills section is your opportunity to highlight specific abilities that make you a strong candidate. This is particularly important in legal and government jobs, where attention to detail and specialized knowledge are paramount.

Key Skills to Include

Here are some essential skills to consider when filling out the skills section of your application:

1. Technical Skills

  • Data Analysis: Proficiency in tools like Excel, SPSS, or R for analyzing data trends.
  • Legal Research: Familiarity with databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis.

2. Communication Skills

  • Written Communication: Ability to draft clear and concise reports, memos, or legal documents.
  • Oral Communication: Experience presenting cases or findings to stakeholders or in court.

3. Interpersonal Skills

  • Team Collaboration: Experience working in multidisciplinary teams or with various departments.
  • Conflict Resolution: Skills in mediating disputes or facilitating discussions.

4. Organizational Skills

  • Project Management: Familiarity with tools like Asana or Trello to manage timelines and deliverables.
  • Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks effectively, ensuring deadlines are met.

5. Problem-Solving Skills

  • Analytical Thinking: Experience in assessing complex legal issues and developing strategies.
  • Decision-Making: Ability to make informed decisions based on legal precedents and regulations.

Example Skills Section

Here’s how you might structure the skills section on your employment application:


**Skills**  
- Data Analysis (Excel, SPSS)  
- Legal Research (Westlaw, LexisNexis)  
- Written Communication (Drafting reports, legal documents)  
- Oral Communication (Presenting in court)  
- Team Collaboration (Working with cross-functional teams)  
- Conflict Resolution (Mediating disputes)  
- Project Management (Using Asana, Trello)  
- Time Management (Prioritizing tasks)  
- Analytical Thinking (Assessing legal issues)  
- Decision-Making (Informed choices based on regulations)

Conclusion

Crafting a well-structured skills section can set your application apart. Be sure to tailor your skills to the specific job description and highlight those that are most relevant to the position you are applying for. This not only demonstrates your qualifications but also your understanding of the role’s requirements.