Top Skills Employers Want in 2025: AI Leads the Pack

Key Points:

• AI skills are the #1 hard skill hiring managers want in 2025, with 47% prioritizing them.
• 6 in 10 hiring managers prefer less-experienced candidates with AI expertise over more experienced ones.
• 73% of companies are expanding their use of AI tools like machine learning and automation.
• Soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and time management remain critical for workplace success.
• Candidates who effectively showcase skills on resumes are 74% more likely to land interviews.

The job market is evolving faster than ever, and if you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve, it’s time to pay attention. Between AI skills, soft skills, and how you present yourself on your resume, there’s a lot to unpack. Let’s dive into what hiring managers are saying—and why AI is the skill that could make or break your chances in 2025.

Why AI is the New MVP on Your Resume

If you’ve been wondering whether to invest time in learning AI tools like machine learning or generative AI, here’s your answer: do it now. According to surveys from both Resume Builder and ResumeTemplates, 47% of hiring managers say AI abilities are the top hard skill they’re looking for in 2025. And it doesn’t stop there—77% of hiring managers believe AI is a beneficial skill even for entry-level candidates.

But here’s the kicker: 6 in 10 hiring managers would choose a less-experienced candidate with AI skills over someone with more experience but no AI expertise. Yes, you read that right. In some cases, having expert AI skills can outweigh a decade of traditional work experience. As Andrew Stoner, Executive Resume Writer at ResumeTemplates, puts it:

“Possessing at least a basic understanding of a specific domain, combined with AI skills, enables candidates to compete with more experienced counterparts.”

So, if you’ve been holding back because you think your lack of experience might hold you back, think again. With the right AI certifications or hands-on examples, you can level up your resume and stand out.

What Else Are Hiring Managers Looking For?

While AI is stealing the spotlight, it’s not the only skill employers care about. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top 10 hard skills and soft skills hiring managers want to see in 2025:

Hard Skills

• AI abilities (machine learning, generative AI tools)
• Sales and customer relationship management (Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Data analysis and visualization (SQL, Tableau, Power BI)
• Cloud computing and storage (AWS, Azure)
• Project management (Agile, PMP certification)
• Coding or software development
• Cybersecurity skills
• Research and technical writing
• Marketing and digital advertising

Soft Skills

• Problem-solving
• Communication skills
• Time management
• Team collaboration
• Attention to detail
• Adaptability
• Ability to take and implement feedback
• Emotional intelligence
• Leadership
• Conflict resolution and management

Notice how soft skills like problem-solving and communication rank just as high as technical expertise. Why? Because while machines can crunch data, humans still need to solve complex problems, collaborate effectively, and communicate clearly.

How to Make Your Resume Stand Out

Here’s where things get interesting. Even if you have all the right skills, how you showcase them matters. According to hiring managers, 74% are much more likely to consider candidates who effectively highlight their skills on their resumes. So, what’s the secret sauce?

Tip #1: Highlight Soft Skills with Specific Examples

Don’t just list “problem-solving” or “communication” on your resume. Instead, provide concrete examples. Did you resolve a major team conflict? Did you lead a project under a tight deadline? Use bullet points to explain the situation, your role, and the outcome. Specificity builds trust and shows you’re not just throwing buzzwords around.

Tip #2: Showcase Technical Skills with Impact

When listing technical skills, especially in areas like AI, go beyond naming the tool. Explain how you used it to achieve results. For example: “Leveraged generative AI to streamline content creation, reducing production time by 30%.” This demonstrates not only your knowledge but also your ability to deliver tangible results.

Tip #3: Align Skills with Job Requirements

Tailor your resume to each job description. If the posting mentions cloud computing or data visualization, make sure those skills are front and center. Hiring managers want to see that you’ve done your homework and understand what they’re looking for.

Why Companies Are Doubling Down on AI

It’s not just about hiring trends—businesses themselves are expanding their use of AI. A whopping 73% of companies say they’re definitely or probably increasing their reliance on AI in 2024. That means even if you’re not in a tech-heavy role, having a basic understanding of AI tools could give you an edge.

For instance, imagine being able to automate routine tasks in Excel using Python scripts or analyzing customer data with Tableau. These small efficiencies add up, making you a more valuable asset to any team.

A Personal Note: Staying Ahead in a Changing World

As someone who spends hours researching hiring trends, I can tell you this: the future belongs to those who adapt. Whether it’s brushing up on AI tools, honing your soft skills, or simply tweaking your resume to highlight what matters most, every step counts.

And hey, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember—you don’t have to do everything at once. Start small. Maybe take an online course in AI basics or practice explaining your accomplishments in a way that feels natural yet impactful. Over time, these little changes can make a big difference.

The Future is Yours to Shape

The message is clear: AI skills are no longer optional—they’re essential. Combine that with strong soft skills and a well-crafted resume, and you’ll be unstoppable in 2025. So, take a deep breath, roll up your sleeves, and start preparing for the opportunities ahead. After all, the future isn’t something that happens to you—it’s something you create.

Now, ask yourself: What’s one step you can take today to get closer to your dream job?