The technical skills everyone needs to land their dream job
Technical skills are essential for career growth and job opportunities. Whether you're applying for a new role or aiming for a promotion, employers look for candidates who can navigate the latest tools and technologies. Understanding technical skills examples relevant to your industry can give you a competitive edge.
In today’s workplace, technical skills are more than just an advantage—they're a necessity. The World Economic Forum's 2023 Future of Jobs report ranks technology literacy among the top 10 most important skills, with AI and big data expertise close behind. As businesses adopt new technologies, professionals with relevant technical skills will stay ahead.
From programming and data analysis to technical writing and machine learning, mastering these skills can open doors in a rapidly evolving job market. This article explores the importance of technical skills, technical skills examples, and how to leverage them for career success.
Here’s what’s in this guide:
What are technical skills?
Technical skills refer to job-specific knowledge and specialised techniques required to perform tasks with precision and expertise. Below, we’ll explore technical skills examples across different industries. Often called hard skills, they are learned through education, training, and hands-on experience. These skills are measurable and essential for success in various industries.
For example, in the Information Technology field, technical skills include programming, data analysis, and cybersecurity. But they aren't limited to tech. A nurse’s technical skills involve reading patient charts, monitoring vital signs, and administering treatments. Engineers, marketers, and even chefs rely on industry-specific technical skills to perform their roles effectively.
Difference between soft skills and technical skills
Unlike technical skills, soft skills—such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability—are transferable across industries and roles. While technical skills focus on what you can do, soft skills define how you work and interact with others. In today’s job market, employers seek a strong balance of both, but lacking the right technical skills can significantly limit your career opportunities.
The demand for specialised skills is skyrocketing, and competition for talent is no longer limited to tech companies. Industries like healthcare, finance, and manufacturing are aggressively hiring professionals with expertise in AI, automation, and data science.
If you want to stand out in the job market, assess your technical skills and align them with growing industries. Whether you’re looking to break into tech or advance in your current field, mastering these in-demand skills can open doors to high-paying opportunities.
Ready to future-proof your career? Explore the 5 Most Effective Ways to Break Into the Tech Industry.
Types of technical skills
With industries rapidly evolving, technical skills are more in demand than ever. In Malaysia, the National Policy on Industry 4.0 emphasises the importance of digital transformation, automation, and data-driven decision-making. As a result, industries across the board are seeking professionals with specialised technical expertise.
Here are some of the most valuable technical skills across different industries, along with technical skills examples that can enhance your career prospects and boost employability.
1. Software development
Focusing on knowledge of programming languages with the specific application of creating bespoke software for a specific purpose. A software developer can be a master in a particular area, like creating code or developing a streamlined interface. If you possess these basic technical skills, you are a job seeker in high demand.
2. Data science
Nearly every industry today relies on data, whether it's statistics about market trends or similar studies done about their product. While it's easy for companies to get data, they need employees who can collect, organise, and interpret it.
Data mining, statistical analysis, and predictive modelling are highly valued technical skills in this field. Some technical skills examples in data science include Python, R, and SQL for data manipulation. Read How to Build a Strong Data Science Career as a Fresh Graduate on Jobstreet's Career Resources.
3. Cloud computing
Cloud computing enables people to access software applications, data storage, and other services over the Internet instead of through traditional physical servers in a back office.
Businesses have been shifting to the cloud for the past several years, gradually reducing investment in on-premises data centres and servers. Employers are now actively seeking qualified and experienced cloud experts with skills in cloud architecture design, cloud security, and cloud migration. Technical skills examples include proficiency in AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
4. Networking and infrastructure
Network infrastructure refers to the hardware and software that enable network connectivity and communication among users, devices, apps, the Internet, and more.
With the rise of hybrid workplace environments, wireless network infrastructure has become essential for employees. It allows them to access the network anytime, anywhere, from any device. And this is done reliably and securely.
Organisations need talent who can adopt new, innovative technologies. Some technical skills examples for networking professionals include network security, VPN setup, and firewall configuration.
5. Cybersecurity
Companies face an abundance of cyber threats every day. This is why organisations need protection against any possible attacks from cybercriminals. This might be the right job if you're excited about protecting a company's digital assets and intelligence from security breaches.
Cyber threats continue to evolve, making cybersecurity expertise essential. Some technical skills examples in this field include penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and cryptography.
6. Marketing
Digital marketing is no longer just about creativity—it requires data-driven decision-making and technical expertise. Marketers need to master tools like Google Analytics, SEO, pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and automation software to optimise campaigns. Additionally, knowledge of customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, conversion rate optimisation (CRO), and A/B testing can significantly boost marketing effectiveness.
7. Productivity and business operations
Organisations are always looking for ways to streamline operations and increase efficiency. Professionals with expertise in business intelligence (BI) tools, enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, workflow automation, and project management platforms are in high demand.
Familiarity with data visualisation tools like Power BI or Tableau can also give you a competitive edge in improving productivity and decision-making.
8. Sales and customer support
Technical skills in sales and customer support go beyond communication and persuasion. Companies look for professionals who can analyse customer data and automate interactions using AI-driven tools.
Some technical skills examples include CRM software (Salesforce, HubSpot) and chatbot implementation. Additionally, understanding sales analytics, lead scoring, and customer segmentation can enhance performance in this field.
9. UI/UX design
UI stands for “user interface”, while UX means “user experience”. Organisations should be customer-obsessed to succeed in their respective markets. And one of the ways they reach out to their customers is through a positive user experience. This is achieved with a great UI/UX design team.
A successful UI/UX design encourages users to stick with a brand or product. Technical skills examples in this field include wireframing (Figma, Adobe XD), usability testing, and information architecture.
10. Finance and accounting technology
The finance industry is rapidly evolving, with technology playing a central role in financial management, accounting, and investment analysis. Professionals in this field need expertise in financial modelling, risk assessment, automated accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero), and fintech solutions.
Those who can integrate AI-driven financial forecasting and blockchain technology will have an edge in the competitive job market.
11. Product management
Product management is a role within the product development team. It focuses on successfully executing the product lifecycle. They serve at the intersection of UX teams, engineering teams, and leaders to hold the shared product vision across.
Product managers define success for each product and create the product strategy. Some technical skills examples include agile methodologies, product analytics, and market research tools.
Importance of technical skills in different fields
Are technical skills important in all industries? No matter what field or industry you are in, you have to understand that good technical skills are key to the company's success, as well as your own.
They may, at times, seem irrelevant to you if you work in something other than your selected field. But having these technical skills, or at least the basic concept, can give you an advantage in your career. Here are some reasons why technical skills and developing them are essential.
1. Future-proof your career
Roles and industries rely heavily on technology. In the not-so-distant future, it's essential to develop your technical skills now. This will help you be more adaptable and ready for any changes in the future.
2. Increase self-confidence
If you don't have technical skills but are required to carry out a role that increasingly revolves around technology, you may need more confidence in your capabilities. Understanding technology will make you feel more comfortable in your role.
3. Work more efficiently
Having self-confidence in your role and the skills you need, you will find that you can be more efficient and competent, too. You don't need to constantly worry about lacking the knowledge or understanding of the technology.
4. Remain relevant
You always continue learning, even if you already possess the technical skills. Since technology constantly evolves, continuous learning is required to ensure your skills stay up-to-date and relevant.
5. Become a valuable asset
If you have limited IT skills in a business that's increasingly relying on technology to operate, you may stay caught up on colleagues with sound technical knowledge. You will be far more valuable by improving your technical skills.
6. Be visible for a promotion
Technical skills are increasingly in demand. Having sound technical knowledge and continuous upskilling will help you be visible inside your organisation. This could put your name on the shortlist for a job promotion.
7. Be more employable
If you're looking for a new job, regardless of the industry or role, having technical skills on your resume will make you a much more experienced employee. This can be extremely attractive and desirable to an employer. It can also help you stand out from other job seekers, which is extremely important in such a competitive job market.
8. Boost your passion
If you've been in your job for a while, then it can be easy for your interest to slip, leaving you unmotivated and unproductive. Learning new hard skills can reignite your passion for work. Exploring technical skills examples that align with your interests can help you identify new career paths and growth opportunities.
Examples of technical skills for your resume
We've listed some of the most valuable technical skills examples that you may want to highlight in your resume. These skills are not limited to tech companies and are increasingly in demand across industries.
Software development
Object-oriented programming
Agile software development
Software testing
Continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD)
Source code management (e.g., Git, SVN)
API development and integration
Software documentation
Application performance optimisation
Low-code and no-code development
Database management (SQL, NoSQL)
Data science and analytics
Statistical analysis
Machine learning algorithms
Data visualisation (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
Data mining
Data cleaning and preprocessing
Predictive modeling
A/B testing
Customer segmentation analysis
Business intelligence (BI) tools
Google Analytics
Cloud computing and IT infrastructure
Cloud architecture design
Cloud security
Amazon Web Services (AWS) / Microsoft Azure / Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Cloud automation
Virtualisation technologies (e.g., VMware, VirtualBox)
IT service management (ITSM)
Network security and firewall configuration
DNS management
Business continuity planning
Cybersecurity
Penetration testing
Vulnerability assessment
Security risk analysis
Incident response management
Identity and access management
Data encryption and cryptography
Security compliance (e.g., GDPR, ISO 27001)
Marketing
Search engine optimisation (SEO)
Paid advertising platforms (e.g., Google Ads, Facebook Ads)
Customer relationship management (CRM) software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
Email marketing automation (e.g., Mailchimp, Marketo)
Content management systems (CMS) (e.g., WordPress, Drupal)
Web analytics and conversion tracking
Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)
Marketing automation (e.g., HubSpot, Pardot)
Lead generation and nurturing
E-commerce platforms (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
Productivity and business operations
Project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira)
Workflow automation tools (e.g., Zapier, Power Automate)
Data entry and database management
Microsoft Excel (Pivot tables, Macros) & Google Sheets
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
Virtual collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Zoom, Microsoft Teams)
Scheduling and time management tools
Documentation and knowledge management (e.g., Notion, Confluence)
Process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)
Sales and customer support
Sales funnel management
Lead qualification and scoring
Cold outreach and email sequencing
Customer support platforms (e.g., Zendesk, Freshdesk)
Point-of-sale (POS) systems
Sales forecasting and reporting
Chatbot implementation
Negotiation and pricing strategy software
Client relationship management
UI/UX design
User interface design
User experience research
Wireframing and prototyping (e.g., Figma, Adobe XD)
Usability testing
Design thinking
Visual design
Interaction design
Accessibility compliance (WCAG)
Finance and accounting technology
Financial modelling and forecasting
Accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero, SAP)
Payroll processing
Tax preparation software
Expense management tools
Financial data analysis
Product management
Market research and competitive analysis
Customer journey mapping
Agile methodology and Scrum framework
Roadmapping and prioritisation
Key performance indicator (KPI) tracking
Product analytics tools (e.g., Mixpanel, Amplitude)
Product launch strategy
How to improve your technical skills?
Technical skills are essential for career growth, but staying competitive requires continuous improvement. Whether you're breaking into a new industry or advancing in your current role, refining your expertise makes you a valuable asset.
Developing technical skills requires a mix of structured learning, hands-on experience, and networking. Here are five effective ways to enhance your expertise:
1. Workplace learning
Many employers offer training programs, workshops, or mentorship to help employees upskill. These programs often focus on areas like software development, cloud computing, and business intelligence. In Malaysia, 43% of tech professionals seek specialised training, while 48% expect on-the-job learning, highlighting its importance for career growth.
2. Self-directed learning
Taking charge of your learning ensures you stay ahead of industry trends. Reading blogs, research papers, and books or listening to expert podcasts can provide valuable insights. Platforms like Medium and Google Skillshop offer free and premium content to help professionals stay updated.
3. Online courses
Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX provide structured courses in programming, data science, AI, and more. Many include real-world examples and certifications that strengthen your resume. Bite-sized formats like short videos or microlearning courses make it easier to fit learning into your schedule.
4. Informal learning channels
YouTube, blogs, and forums like Stack Overflow and GitHub are excellent resources. Industry experts often share free tutorials and case studies, helping you quickly learn and apply new skills. The key is applying what you learn in real-world projects to reinforce understanding.
5. Social learning & networking
Joining professional groups, engaging in Slack or Discord communities, and attending industry webinars can expand your knowledge. Learning from peers and mentors keeps you accountable and helps you discover job opportunities.
Importance of continued learning
Technology evolves rapidly, and professionals who embrace continuous learning stay ahead. Reviewing updated technical skills examples ensures you remain competitive. Employers seek adaptable candidates who can master new tools and industry trends, making lifelong learning essential for career success.
Role of certifications and training programs
Certifications validate the expertise and set you apart. Many companies require recognised certifications to ensure competency. Popular options include:
AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Cloud Computing)
Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate (Data Science)
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) (Cybersecurity)
PMP Certification (Project Management)
Certified professionals close skill gaps, boost productivity and increase earning potential. Investing in training and certifications enhances job security and career prospects.
Practical experience and hands-on-learning
Real-world application is the best way to improve technical skills. Freelance projects, open-source contributions, and personal projects help build expertise.
For IT professionals, platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, and Kaggle sharpen problem-solving skills. For marketers, running A/B tests or analysing SEO data provides hands-on learning. Applying skills in real-world scenarios not only enhances knowledge but also makes you more attractive to employers.
By actively developing technical skills through learning, certifications, and hands-on experience, you can stay ahead in a competitive job market.
Measuring technical skills
Proving your technical skills is crucial in today’s job market. Employers go beyond resumes, using assessments and certifications to verify expertise. Nearly 50% of job seekers embellish resumes, making structured evaluations essential for hiring the right talent.
Companies commonly assess skills through technical tests, hands-on projects, and interviews. Tests may include multiple-choice questions, coding challenges, or real-world problem-solving tasks. Hands-on projects allow candidates to apply their skills in work-like scenarios, while technical interviews evaluate problem-solving and communication. For experienced roles, portfolio reviews are also used.
Certifications, such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), further validate expertise. These credentials demonstrate real-world abilities and meet industry demands.
While assessments ensure fair hiring and reduce bias, they have downsides—some focus too narrowly on specific skills, and lengthy tests may deter candidates.
If you're applying for a technical role, preparation is key. Practice problem-solving, take mock tests, and align your certifications with industry expectations. Mastering technical assessments, interviews, and certifications will boost your chances of landing your ideal job.
Showcasing technical skills
Your technical skills can set you apart in a competitive job market—but only if presented effectively. Employers spend seconds scanning resumes, so your skills must be immediately visible and relevant.
Create a dedicated skills section on your resume to highlight key technical abilities rather than burying them in your work history. Use keywords from job descriptions to align with applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch recruiters' attention. Demonstrate how you've applied your skills in past roles by showcasing problem-solving and real-world impact.
During interviews, use precise technical terms and provide concrete examples of how your expertise contributed to solving problems, improving efficiency, or driving success. Employers want candidates who can demonstrate—not just list—their skills.
An online portfolio is another powerful way to showcase your expertise. A professional website, GitHub repository, or digital portfolio can make a strong first impression. Include case studies, project breakdowns, and real-world applications to demonstrate your capabilities.
Common misconceptions about technical skills
Many job seekers believe that technical skills are difficult to learn and require formal education to master. However, these are common misconceptions that can hold you back from pursuing new career opportunities. Before you start your job search, let’s clear up some of the biggest myths about technical skills.
Technical skills are only crucial for technical jobs
While technical roles like software development, data science, and IT require specialised knowledge, technical skills are valuable across industries. Looking at technical skills examples in different fields, such as healthcare or finance, shows how technology plays a crucial role in various professions.
Healthcare professionals use medical software, finance experts rely on data analysis tools, and marketing teams leverage SEO and automation platforms. No matter your field, technical skills help improve efficiency and problem-solving.
Technical skills are only relevant to entry-level positions
Many assume that once they land a job, they won’t need to develop their technical skills further. The reality is that as you progress in your career, your technical expertise should grow with you.
According to DevSkiller, junior developers typically have an average of 40 skills, while mid-level developers have 106 skills—more than double the amount. This demonstrates how ongoing skill development is essential for career growth.
Technical skills are only developed through formal education
While a degree can provide a strong foundation, it’s not the only way to develop technical skills. Many professionals teach themselves through online courses, tutorials, boot camps, and real-world experience. With the abundance of free and affordable learning platforms, self-directed learning has become a powerful way to gain expertise without formal schooling.
Don’t let these misconceptions hold you back from building the career you want. Whether you’re switching industries, upskilling, or just starting out, developing technical skills is more accessible than ever. Stay proactive, embrace continuous learning, and take advantage of the many resources available to help you succeed.
Looking for opportunities to land your dream job? Read How to Get Your Ideal Job on Career Resources.
Conclusion
Technical skills are essential for career growth across industries. Reviewing technical skills examples in your field helps identify key competencies for better opportunities. From software development to marketing, the right skills boost employability and efficiency. Employers prioritise skill-based hiring, making it crucial to showcase, improve, and measure your expertise.
As technology evolves, demand for skilled professionals will rise. Staying competitive requires continuous learning, certifications, and hands-on experience. Exploring technical skills examples in emerging industries ensures you stay adaptable and ahead in the job market.
FAQs
- What are the most in-demand technical skills?
Trending for 2023 are the following skills:Basic programming
Low-code platforms
UI/UX design
Data engineering
Data visualisation
Video editing
CRMs
Product management
- Can technical skills be learned online?
Technical skills can be self-taught in different ways, either by gaining certification or learning through books or online resources. You may want to check sites offering some tech certifications (This may be just up your alley), such as: - How do I identify which technical skills are essential for my field?
Be clear about the role you want and analyse job postings with similar functions. Look at the job requirements and compare them with technical skills examples relevant to your industry. Assess if you possess the same capability and highlight this on your resume.
- How can I improve my technical skills without spending a lot of money?
There are different ways to develop your technical skills, aside from taking online classes, gaining certifications, or buying books. You can access free online training materials or watch YouTube, where experts showcase their know-how.
When possible, you can ask help from senior colleagues to be your mentor and show you how to deepen your proficiency. Join other fellow learners as well so you can share experiences and resources.
- Are technical skills more important than soft skills?
Both technical skills and soft skills are essential in any job. Employers look for applicants with a mix of these skills. They are complementary.
For example,a programmer is proficient in Python and coding, and at the same time, they have excellent teamwork and critical thinking skills. This combination of technical and soft skills will be a positive contribution to the success of the company.
- Can I still get a job without technical skills?
There are plenty of jobs for those without experience where you can do on-the-job training. However, if you can showcase certain technical skills, it will give you an advantage over your competition.
