What Are Core Competencies on a CV and How Do You List Them?

Listing your core competencies on a CV is a strategic method to pass automated screening systems and immediately demonstrate your suitability to hiring managers. By placing a dedicated skills section near the top of your CV, you can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for identifying, customizing, and formatting your core competencies effectively.

What are core competencies on a CV?

Your core competencies are the combination of skills, knowledge, and certifications that qualify you for a specific role. Think of them as your professional value proposition—a concise summary of what you bring to the table. For optimal visibility, this section should be placed directly beneath your contact information. This placement is crucial because many companies use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), which is software designed to screen applications for specific keywords before a human ever sees them. By tailoring your core competencies to match the keywords in a job description, you improve the likelihood your CV will pass this initial digital scan.

How to create a powerful core competencies section?

Creating an effective core competencies section involves a three-step process: inventory, customization, and presentation.

First, conduct a thorough self-assessment to create a master list of all your relevant skills. This should include both hard skills (technical, teachable abilities like software proficiency or data analysis) and soft skills (interpersonal attributes like communication or leadership). Rank these skills based on your proficiency level. This master list becomes a resource you can draw from for every job application.

Next, and most importantly, customize this list for each application. Carefully analyze the job posting, identifying the key skills and qualifications the employer has prioritized. Cross-reference this with your master list and select the 6-8 most relevant competencies. This targeted approach, based on our assessment experience, directly addresses what the ATS and the hiring manager are looking for, maximizing your application's impact.

Finally, choose a clean, easy-to-read layout. Using bullet points is generally recommended over writing in full sentences, as it saves space and enhances readability. If you have numerous skills, consider grouping them under subheadings like Technical Skills, Interpersonal Skills, or Certifications to help the hiring manager quickly digest the information.

What are examples of high-value core competencies?

While the specific skills will vary by industry, certain core competencies are universally valued by employers. Here are some of the most sought-after examples:

• Communication Skills: This encompasses both written and verbal abilities, indicating you can convey ideas clearly to clients, teammates, and management.
• Leadership: This demonstrates your capacity to guide, motivate, and hold yourself accountable, which is valuable even for non-managerial roles.
• Problem-Solving: The ability to identify challenges and develop effective solutions is critical for overcoming workplace obstacles and driving progress.
• Adaptability: Showing you can adjust to changing priorities and environments signals that you are resilient and capable of thriving under pressure.

How should core competencies be formatted on a CV?

Reviewing examples can clarify how to implement these strategies. Notice how the skills are directly relevant to the target role.

Example for a Marketing Manager:

• Tom Bunch | T.Bunch@email.com | (123) 444-4444
• Core Competencies: Strategic Planning | Digital Advertising | Content Marketing | SEO/SEM | Data Analysis | Team Leadership | Budget Management

Example for a Project Engineer:

• Stephanie Stills | stephanie.stills@email.com | (123) 444-4555
• Core Competencies: AutoCAD | Project Lifecycle Management | Risk Assessment | Quality Control | Stakeholder Communication | Regulatory Compliance

To optimize your CV, focus on these key takeaways: create a master list of your skills, meticulously customize it for each job application, and present your competencies in a clean, scannable format. This structured approach ensures your most relevant qualifications are immediately visible, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.