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18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

• A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
• Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
• Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

• Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
• Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
• Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

• Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
• Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
• Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
• Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

• How to Prepare for a Job Interview
• What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
• Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How to Dress for a Job Interview
• How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
• How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
• How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

Copyright ©2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed

Dos and don'ts of resume personal statements

A good personal statement can make your resume catch a recruiter's eye. We'll show you how to write a solid personal statement highlighting your unique skills, experiences, and professional goals. Whatever career stage you're in, we've got you covered. Read on to find information on the topic, resume personal statement examples, and helpful tips to help you stand out in the job market.

• What is a personal statement?
• Key elements to include in a personal statement
• Personal statement examples
• Tips on writing a personal statement for your resume
• Formatting and structuring your statement
• Common mistakes when writing a personal statement
• Bottom line

What is a personal statement?  

Think of a personal statement as a quick snapshot of yourself on your resume. It's a brief section that tells employers what kind of employee you are. Sometimes, it's also called resume objectives or CV personal statement.

The personal statement shows your goals and what makes you unique. It can be used to show how your skills, experiences, and job goals make you stand out from other applicants. This can significantly affect how the employer sees you as a potential employee.

It's your chance to add personality, passion, and purpose to your resume. You can make an impression that will make you shine during your job search.

Key elements to include in a personal statement  

To make a great resume summary, remember these important points that help a hiring manager understand who you are professionally:

• Who you are: Start by briefly saying who you are. Give a short but clear summary of your work background.
• Summary of your experiences : Give a brief outline of your career. Focus on crucial turning points, accomplishments, and related experiences. This part overviews your career path and shows how broad or deep your knowledge is.
• Your value as an employee: Explain what makes you special. Talk about the skills, qualities, and experiences that make you different from others applying for the job. Show how your experience matches the company's needs and how you can help them succeed.
• Your career objectives : At the end of your resume objective statement, list your career goals and ambitions. Make your short and long-term career goals clear. This shows that you're committed to professional growth and development.

Personal statement examples  

A good personal statement can be an important part of shaping your career, whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced professional. Here are some examples of personal statements from different career stages. They show off relevant skills, experiences, and goals of job seekers.

Personal statement examples for students looking for internships

"I am a driven undergraduate student majoring in marketing, seeking internship opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. I have a proven ability to develop client relationships and execute marketing strategies. I am ready to share new thoughts and learn from people with more experience."

"Dedicated undergraduate student studying mechanical engineering, looking for an internship opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical projects. Skilled with CAD tools and has experience making prototypes. Possesses strong critical thinking skills and takes the necessary steps to solve problems. Excellent collaborator who is always looking to learn and improve."

Personal statement example for fresh graduates

"I am a recent finance bachelor's degree holder with a solid grasp of financial principles and robust analytic abilities. I have operated effectively in dynamic settings and provided precise financial analysis. I am seeking an entry-level role in financial analysis to utilise my academic knowledge and contribute to organisational success."

"Highly motivated human resource management graduate who is deeply committed to cultivating positive work environments. Proficient in employee relations, performance management, and recruitment. Seeking an HR position to implement academic knowledge and acquire practical experience."

Personal statement examples for working professionals

"I am an experienced sales manager with more than five years of experience in B2B sales. I am currently looking to resume my professional career. I have a proven history of exceeding sales goals, building strong relationships with clients, and establishing vital client leads. I am looking for a challenging sales manager position where I can use my leadership skills to coach a team of top performers and make the company more profitable."

"I am an accomplished project manager with a background in information technology. I am skilled at coordinating the efforts of diverse teams to complete challenging assignments on schedule and within budget. I have consistently reduced risk and guaranteed project success. I am seeking new opportunities to apply my project management expertise in a dynamic environment."

Personal statement example for workers making mid-career transitions

"Experienced marketer ready to move into digital advertising. Skilled in both digital and conventional marketing tactics, with a particular focus on expanding brands' reach and interaction via online media. Seeks a position to use marketing talents to create modern digital advertising strategies."

"I am a project manager with extensive experience, with a career goal to work in sustainable development. I am passionate about positively affecting society and comfortable in a fast-paced environment. I have expertise at working with stakeholders and planning strategically."

Tips on writing a personal statement for your resume  

Before you start writing your statement, think about the following tips.

Selecting the most impactful experiences to share

Carefully choose which experiences to highlight in your CV personal statement. Consider the following aspects to guarantee that you demonstrate the most effective ones:

• Relevance to job scope: Select experiences and relevant qualifications that directly relate to the needs of your desired role.
• Significance of results: Highlight experiences in which you achieved substantial results. Focus on your efforts and accomplishments.
• Business impact: Show how your work has increased the company's profits. Give numbers to support your results and explain how your work has helped the group succeed or grow.

Demonstrating problem-solving and leadership through past scenarios

In your resume personal statement, use examples from your past to show how you've solved problems and led others .

Try to give an example of your problem and how you solved it. Highlight situations when you were proactive, made tough choices, and helped others succeed.

Demonstrating that you can deal with problems and lead confidently shows you're ready for new tasks in your next job.

Keeping your personal statement concise

Write a short, clear, objective statement to help you hold the reader's attention. Here are some suggestions to help you keep your resume personal statement short:

• Editing: Carefully read over your resume and personal statement. Remove unnecessary details or repeated information, and ensure you only include the most useful and important facts.
• Clarity: Write clearly to make sure your message is easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or academic terms that the reader might not know.
• Length: Personal statements should be short but full of helpful information. There is no rigid word limit but keep your statement to a few brief lines that get to the point of who you are as a professional and what you want to achieve.

Formatting and structuring your statement  

Here are some guidelines for making your objective statement more straightforward and organised.

Formatting tips for maximum readability

The layout of your resume personal statement affects how hiring managers read and interact with your content. To make sure your writing is easy to comprehend, consider the following:

• For a professional appearance, pick a classy font that's simple to read, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
• Keep the font size the same throughout the document. The best range is between 10pt and 12pt.
• When choosing the point of view, think about the tone and setting of your resume personal statement.
• First-person POV allows you to connect with the reader more directly, and third-person POV can present an air of professionalism and objectivity.

Pros and cons of each POV style

Both the first-person and the third-person POVs have pros and cons. A first-person POV makes it feel like the text is directed at the reader, but it can sometimes be too casual. On the other hand, a third-person POV seems objective and professional. This is common in formal settings but can feel impersonal or distant.

The POV you choose affects the way your personal statement reads. First-person POV creates a more personal and conversational tone. The third-person perspective conveys a feeling of formality and objectivity, setting a tone appropriate for formal papers.

Alignment with your overall resume style

Pick a POV for your personal statement that complements your resume's general tone and style. The document should flow from one section to the next. To make a good impression on recruiters, change the POV to fit the role, the company culture, and the business. If you’re applying for a creative role, you can make your resume stand out by matching the creative writing style of your prospective employer.

Resume personal statement in first-person POV

“With a strong background in content marketing, I excel in writing, editing, content planning, and SEO. In my previous roles, I was committed to ensuring my team met deadlines and KPIs. I'm eager to leverage my skills and enthusiasm as Content Manager for the Singapore Creative Ad Agency.”

Resume personal statement in third-person POV

“Has a strong background in content marketing. Excels in writing, editing, content planning, and SEO. In previous roles, demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the team met deadlines and KPIs. Eager to leverage skills and enthusiasm as Content Manager for the Singapore Creative Ad Agency.”

Common mistakes when writing a personal statement  

Avoid common clichés and overused phrases.

Don't include phrases such as "hardworking," "team player," and "results-oriented." They don't say much about you and won't help you stand out from other applicants.

What to leave out of your personal statements

Remove any old or useless information that doesn't fit with your story or add value to your application. For example, if your achievements as a high school student aren’t relevant to your application, don’t include them. Read the job description carefully before adding any information.

Bad personal statement examples

"Motivated individual seeking challenging opportunities to utilise analytical skills and grow within a dynamic organisation."

"Passionate team player with excellent communication skills and a strong work ethic."

"Detail-oriented professional with a proven track record of success in various roles."

These examples are too short and vague. They don’t say anything about you as a person or employee. Make sure your personal statements showcase your unique traits and career path. Show your positive impact in your previous roles, and highlight what benefit your prospective employer can get from hiring you.

Bottom line  

Personal statements can make or break a job application. Using the ideas, examples, and advice in this guide, you can write the best statement that catches the hiring managers interest and connects with them on a deeper level. Remember that your personal statement is more than just a summary of your work history. It's your chance to show potential employers what you can do and how passionate you are about the job.

• What should I write in my statement for a resume? Your statement should briefly summarise your professional attributes. It should cover relevant skills, experiences, and career goals that match the role you're pursuing. ⁠
• Can you provide summary statements and examples for a job application? Yes! Here's an example: "As a seasoned marketing professional with a passion for innovation, I'm excited to leverage my expertise in digital marketing to enhance and energise your dynamic team at XYZ Company. Committed to driving tangible outcomes, I aim to contribute my skills in crafting impactful campaigns and utilising analytics to fuel your organisation's success." ⁠
• How long should a personal statement be on a resume? A few sentences should be enough for a short but powerful statement. They should focus on the most relevant information that fits the job description. ⁠
• What are some dos and don'ts for writing a resume personal statement? Dos: Personalise your statement for the position and company. Highlight your job-related abilities, experiences, and accomplishments. Don'ts: Avoid using clichés or generic phrases. Don't make it too long. ⁠
• How can I make my statement stand out to employers? Make your personal statements special to each role you apply for. Think about your personal profile and the job description. Highlight your unique skills, accomplishments, and goals that match the role's needs. This will help you connect strongly with managers. ⁠
• Are there any online tools to help me craft a personal statement? Yes, tools like Perfect Essay Writer, Paper Help, and BBQ Papers can help you improve and modify your personal statements by giving you language tips and reading-level feedback.

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Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

Teamwork skills are crucial in the workplace , and employers expect effective collaboration, even in remote and hybrid settings. When you skim the job ads, it’s no surprise that the keyword ‘team player’ appears so frequently, and it should also appear in your resume.

To nail that interview, it’s important to list genuine teamwork abilities on your resume beyond just using buzzwords . Demonstrating teamwork abilities is as critical as any other qualification and should be articulated and tailored to the job requirements. 

Keep reading to learn  how to write a team player resume.  

Are you in a hurry to write yours? Try our  AI-powered resume builder , and you’ll  be done in a few minutes !

How to Convey Teamwork on a Resume

To start off with, if you’ve ever received any form of recognition for your teamwork skills, this is worth mentioning on your resume. Maybe you received an award for your teamwork efforts, served as a team lead, coordinated a project, or been given a special role that involves  liaising between team members .

Another effective way to  show collaboration skills on your resume  is to include them in the skills section . The smartest thing to do is to  tailor this section to each job application to clearly show how  your skill set matches the job  requirements.

The second step is to identify the keywords in the job description and write a  teamwork skills checklist . Remember that employers now use  Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)  to scan resumes, so if your resume doesn’t contain the right keywords, the employer won’t even see it.

At the same time, you need to do more than just use the keywords. Just saying you’re a  team player on your resume  isn’t convincing.

It’s much more effective to  include specific examples  of the actions you took as a team and what the  successful outcome  was. Listing KPIs and other metrics alongside your teamwork examples will demonstrate the impact you had.

You will also need to  include teamwork examples  in other sections of your resume, such as your  work experience  section.

How to List Teamwork Skills on Your Resume

So, let’s get down to the ‘how’. Here is our expert advice on how to include your teamwork examples throughout your resume:

• Identify relevant teamwork skills : Analyze the job description to determine the most important teamwork skills for the position. Tailor your resume to emphasize these skills, such as collaboration, communication , or problem-solving with others.
• Use action verbs : Start each bullet point with action verbs that demonstrate teamwork, such as “collaborated,” “partnered,” “coordinated,” or “supported.” This helps to create a more dynamic and engaging resume.
• Quantify accomplishments : Whenever possible, include quantifiable results to showcase the positive impact of your teamwork. Use percentages, numbers, or specific outcomes to highlight your achievements.
• Highlight specific projects : Provide examples of successful projects or initiatives where you worked as part of a team. Describe your role, the team’s goals, and the results achieved.
• Display teamwork in various contexts : Demonstrate your versatility by including examples of teamwork from different settings, such as work, school, or volunteer experiences.

Examine a wrong and right example of how to mention collaboration skills on your resume.

Worked on a new product line with coworkers.

This example does not go into enough detail and lacks a powerful verb to emphasize the collaboration. Take a look at this better example below:

Collaborated with a cross-functional team to develop and launch a new product line, resulting in a 20% increase in revenue.

Teamwork Skills Examples

There are plenty of cases where you can use as team player resume statements. If you add concrete data and evidence, you’ll easily be able to demonstrate on your resume that you are able to work in a team and independently .

Take a look at some examples of how to add team player skills to your resume:

• Facilitated collaboration among 3 departments, achieving project completion 10% ahead of schedule.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and launch a new product line, leading to a 20% increase in company revenue and strengthened interdepartmental relationships.
• As the lead coordinator on a project team, I spearheaded a company-wide software upgrade that streamlined workflows and enhanced overall efficiency by 15%.
• Partnered with colleagues to create a mentorship program for new hires, resulting in a 30% decrease in employee turnover and improved workplace morale.
• Participated in a collaborative effort to redesign the company website, leading to a 25% increase in user engagement and improved brand recognition.
• Worked with 6 other fundraisers to raise over $800.
• Worked in a group of 5 people while delegating our tasks effectively and surpassed our yearly targets 3 years running.

Don’t go over the top with these numbers. Remember that not all jobs can be analyzed in such a way and that one or two points with statistics are enough.

Top 10 Teamwork Skills for Resumes

What teamwork skills are essential to the workplace?  Here are some of the most important collaboration skills that empower value.

1. Reliability and punctuality

Completing tasks on time and being punctual are basic abilities.  Reliable team members  gain the trust of their colleagues and bosses and become valued workers. A team working well and efficiently relies on these core time management skills , and it’s important to highlight them on your resume.

2. Verbal and written communication skills

Whether it be by phone, email, or face-to-face, being able to communicate your ideas to other people clearly is an important part of most jobs. People with poor communication skills are  difficult to work with  and can be a nightmare to manage. This is one of the key areas employers assess during job interviews .

3. Listening skills

Good listening skills are an essential part of being an effective team member. It’s key to follow instructions, cooperate as a unit , and get along with colleagues and clients. Without strong listening skills , it’s difficult to show empathy and understanding. This is another key skill employers test during job interviews.

4. Positivity

Both positivity and negativity are  contagious forces of energy . Everyone wants to work with colleagues, clients, and bosses who have a  positive mindset . If you demonstrate any negativity on your resume or during the job interview, you probably won’t get hired. Negative people are  more likely to complain , cause problems, and lack motivation.

5. Conflict management

Work can be  tense, stressful, and problematic . This can cause friction between team members, which must be resolved before the team can continue functioning. The ability to  mediate between other people  is a valuable skill that employers look for in many roles including managers, team leaders, and HR managers .

6. Organizing and planning

A team player who looks out for the rest of the team by planning or aiding the group to stick to the plan enables the group to remain organized. Being able to keep on top of your own work while looking out for others  shows competence  and also helps to prove to your superiors that you are capable of managing a team.

7. Problem-solving

Whether visible or invisible,  problems are typical in any workplace or team,  and sometimes they are up to you to solve. Regardless of whether you are given a problem by others in your team to resolve or you detect your own problem and resolve it, both of these  problem-solving qualities are of worth in the workplace.

If you can demonstrate solid critical thinking skills , and be the person who stays calm during problem periods, you can  be a   great asset to your team and become a reliable teammate.

8. Decision-making

Some find it tough, others easy; making decisions is not for everyone. A team player who doesn’t enjoy putting their foot down should  seek to contribute to decisions  by being present in group meetings, talking it through, and providing for and against arguments. Part of decision-making, after all,  is not the decision itself but how and with whom you make it.

9. Persuasive skills

Have you ever agreed with all of your team on a certain topic and found it difficult to get the last team member on board? Sometimes all it takes is a simple conversation that can help that person see and understand your point of view.

Part of being persuasive is not just about changing people’s minds; it’s about empathizing with others , connecting, and understanding one another. This is a quality of teamwork like no other, and those who possess this quality can often be the team glue.

10. Feedback skills

Constructive criticism and evaluations  all have their place when it comes to teamwork, and it’s important to  make sure the traffic flows in both directions.  Feedback should always be welcome amongst both team players and superiors. 

Giving feedback doesn’t have to be a negative process  and helps everyone to work on themselves.

How To Improve Teamwork Skills

It’s not enough to simply have teamwork skills on your resume; constantly improving them is also necessary . 

The good news is that they are something that can be developed over time . Michael Jordan wouldn’t have won as much if Scottie Pippen didn’t also step up his game and vice versa.

Here are 5 ways to improve your teamwork skills , so you can become a top-notch team player and stand out to potential employers.

• Practice active listening : Good teamwork requires effective communication, and active listening is an essential part of that. When you listen actively, you are fully engaged with the speaker, focusing on their words, tone, and body language. By doing so, you can gain a better understanding of your teammates’ perspectives and needs.
• Be open to feedback : When you receive feedback from your teammates, be open to it, even if it’s critical. Use feedback as an opportunity to learn and grow, and use it to improve your work and relationships with your team.
• Be reliable : Dependability is an essential quality in any team member. If you commit to completing a task, make sure you follow through on that commitment. Being reliable means your teammates can trust you to do your part, and it helps build strong relationships and a positive team dynamic.
• Be flexible : Teamwork often requires flexibility and adaptability. Be willing to adjust your plans or approach if necessary to accommodate the team or project’s needs. Flexibility can help keep the team moving forward, even when unexpected challenges arise.
• Build relationships : Take the time to get to know your teammates on a personal level, and show an interest in their lives and interests. Building relationships can help create a more positive and supportive team environment, which can lead to better collaboration and productivity.

By following these five tips, you can improve your teamwork skills and become a more effective and valuable team member . 

Incorporating these skills into your resume shows potential employers that you have what it takes to work well with others and contribute to a positive team environment.

Key Takeaways

Mastering the art of teamwork is essential for career advancement and making a meaningful impact in any professional setting.

Remember the following points when writing your resume:

• Effective examples : Use clear metrics and specific project results to illustrate your teamwork skills.
• Resume customization : Align your teamwork abilities with job descriptions using strategic keywords to ensure ATS compatibility.
• Skill enhancement : Continuously work to improve key teamwork skills, such as active listening and adaptability, to bolster your team contribution.

Still need help? Leverage our AI-powered resume builder to effectively present your teamwork skills and advance your career. Try it for free now !

To effectively describe teamwork on a resume, focus on specific experiences where your collaborative efforts led to measurable outcomes . Start bullet points with action verbs like “collaborated,” “coordinated,” or “facilitated” to convey active participation.  Include quantifiable achievements, such as percentages or time frames, to illustrate the impact of your teamwork. Tailor these descriptions to match the teamwork skills listed in the job description , ensuring your resume aligns with what the employer is seeking.

Emphasize collaborative projects or roles where you actively contributed to team success. Use action verbs like “collaborated,” “coordinated,” or “facilitated” to start descriptions, highlighting how your involvement led to tangible results . Quantify these achievements when possible (e.g., “increased efficiency by 15%”).

For describing your teamwork skills specifically, focus on attributes that show your ability to interact effectively with others. Mention skills such as communication, conflict resolution, adaptability, and reliability . Provide examples that demonstrate these abilities in action, such as resolving team conflicts or adapting to new team strategies.

Yes, you can list teamwork as a skill on your resume. It’s important to not only state “teamwork” but also to back it up with specific examples that demonstrate your collaborative abilities. 

Highlight instances where you effectively worked within a team to achieve goals, resolve conflicts, or lead projects. Use action verbs and quantifiable results to strengthen your case. 

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How To Demonstrate Teamwork Skills on Your Resume

Struggling to list teamwork as a skill on your resume without describing yourself as a “team player?” Follow this in-depth guide with concrete examples.

2 years ago   •   12 min read

“I’m a team player who works well with others.”

If you’ve been keeping this line on your resume for years to show teamwork, it’s time to take it off! Teamwork is a soft skill , which means recruiters aren’t just going to take your word for it — they want to see it in action. Describing yourself as a ‘team player’ is about as effective as labeling yourself as a ‘genius’ or ‘visionary,’ which is to say, not at all.

So how do you show you’re a team player on your resume if you can’t just come out and say it?

• Review the job description to identify what specific teamwork skills the hiring manager is looking for.
• Highlight job titles related to teamwork.
• Demonstrate specific team-based accomplishments in your bullet points.
• Start each bullet point with a strong action verb .
• Avoid meaningless buzzwords and use synonyms to emphasize teamwork.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to show teamwork skills on your resume without relying on buzzwords, common mistakes to avoid when showcasing soft skills, how to showcase teamwork when you have limited experience, and how to balance teamwork accomplishments with independent experience.

So, let’s get to it!

What recruiters are looking for when they ask for teamwork skills

Being able to work in a team is an essential part of most, if not all, jobs, but it’s a hard skill for recruiters to assess. When a role specifically asks for evidence of previous teamwork experience, recruiters want to see that you have the required soft skills to perform well in a team environment. These soft skills include:

• Communication
• Persuasion, motivation, and other leadership skills
• Collaboration and idea-sharing
• Conflict resolution
• Time management and multitasking
• Positive attitude
• Interpersonal skills

Why do teamwork skills matter?

For fear of stating the obvious, teamwork skills show recruiters that you can work well with others. If you’re applying for team-based roles, this is obviously essential, but many roles involve an element of teamwork, even if it’s not immediately apparent.

Even in a largely solo position, you’ll still need to interact with others, whether that’s coworkers in similar roles, liaising with other departments, or even just meeting with your manager. Never underestimate the importance of being able to get along with others in a professional setting — nobody wants to hire a lone wolf.

Teamwork skills and ATS

In today’s competitive job market, many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes based on specific keyword inclusion, and if these keywords are not found, it can lead to an automatic rejection. This is especially true for job descriptions that specifically list teamwork as a required skill. To optimize your resume for ATS, include relevant teamwork-related keywords within the context of your experiences, such as ‘collaborated’, ‘team coordination’, and ‘group projects.’

How to show teamwork skills on your resume

Teamwork, like any soft skill, is best demonstrated in your work experience bullet points by highlighting specific accomplishments from previous roles and explaining how those accomplishments are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Review the job description

Your resume should always be tailored to the exact job you’re applying for, which means including keywords and skills the job description specifically asked for. To start, scan the job description for the specific types of teamwork skills the role requires. Will you be:

• Working closely with others on a day-to-day basis?
• Leading a team?
• Collaborating with external stakeholders?

Then, choose accomplishments that match the duties you’ll be expecting to perform. For example:

• Job description : Work with internal and external customers to analyze the needs and align product roadmap to strategic goals.
• Your resume : Acted as the liaison between product, IT, and sales teams to understand customer demand for new features and prioritize the product roadmap leading to a 35% increase in yearly revenue.

More Tips: Write a targeted resume: How to tailor your resume to a job

Another good way to tailor your resume to the job is to use the skills and keyword tool below to search for the job you’re applying for and it’ll provide you with a list of hard skills relevant to that job. For example, type Program Manager and it’ll give you a list of skills that hiring managers look for in Program Manager resumes.

Highlight job titles

Sometimes, the need for teamwork is evident from the job title itself. If you’ve previously held a job title that contained keywords like Team Leader, Manager, or Coordinator, showcase these prominently in your work experience section.

Suppose your job title doesn’t immediately showcase your teamworking skills. In that case, you can change your job title to a more descriptive title or include a short blurb underneath the title that explains how teamwork played a part in your role, like in the example below.

Choose strong action verbs

Start your bullet points off with a bang by leading with action verbs that emphasize teamwork skills. Try verbs like:

• Coordinated
• Collaborated
• Facilitated

More Tips: Resume action verbs for 2024

Quantify your experience with metrics

Hiring managers want to see evidence of your skills, not just a list of roles and responsibilities. Instead of saying you’re a team player, choose examples of times you’ve worked with others to finish a project, host an event, or resolve an issue, and quantify these examples with metrics and data to show the impact and range of your skills.

Include metrics such as the size of the team, the length of the project, and the positive results of your work, as shown in the resume example below.

More Tips: Writing resume accomplishments (with examples)

Use teamwork synonyms in your summary and cover letter

It is still possible to directly address teamwork in your cover letter and summary without resorting to buzzwords and cliches. The trick is to be clever about it — instead of coming right out and saying you’re a good team player, use synonyms and other words for 'team player' to get the idea across without being too obvious about it.

Don’t fall back on overused buzzwords like “work well as part of a team.” Instead, describe why you thrive in a team environment, like “collaboration,” “ supporting others ,” and “sharing ideas.”

More Tips: Synonyms for common resume power verbs

Get feedback on your resume

Once you’re happy with your resume, it’s time to put on the finishing touches. Uploading your resume to an ATS resume scanner is fast and free. It can also give you specific, detailed feedback on how you score on core competencies like teamwork.

How to identify key teamwork skills

After understanding what specific teamwork skills a job requires and how to showcase those skills on your resume, the next step is to reflect on your experiences and determine what roles in your previous work history best showcase these skills. If you’re struggling to find good examples of teamwork skills, follow these steps:

• Identify your role : Consider a time in your previous work experience when you interacted as part of a team. What role did you fulfill? Were you the organizer, the creative thinker, or the one who brought the team back on track?
• Identify the team dynamic : What type of team were you involved in, and how did you contribute to the team’s overall success? Did you mediate conflicts, contribute to a positive environment, or motivate your teammates?
• Consider challenges : Identify challenges you faced in the team setting and how you overcame them. What have these experiences taught you about teamwork, and how have they shaped your approach to collaborative work?
• Quantify your impact : Detail the specifics of your team experience. How large was your team? What was the scope of your project? Did your involvement lead to an increase in productivity, a successful project completion, or a notable achievement?

Examples of how to describe teamwork on a resume

Ready to showcase teamwork skills on your resume? Here are some sample bullet points you can use to demonstrate teamwork in any situation.

Collaborating with a team

If you have experience working as part of a team, mention it! Describe the size of the team, what your specific role was, and what you accomplished.

• Collaborated with 10+ developers and product management team to assess project outcomes and prioritize future app features.

If you’re applying for senior or management roles, recruiters want to see examples of how you’ve led teams in the past. You can do this even if you’ve never held an official leadership position by choosing examples of specific projects, training, or initiatives you’d led.

• Trained and led team building workshops monthly for 3 departments.

Colaborating on projects

Colaborating with others demonstrates that you’re flexible and willing to adapt to different situations — and different teams. Mention specific times you’ve worked with people outside your usual department, like ad-hoc teams or cross-departmental initiatives.

• Proposed solution and built team to solve number one cause of customer complaints and completed project six months ahead of schedule.

Supporting others

Sometimes teamwork means taking a backseat and lending support to others. If you played a part in accomplishments you don’t want to claim solely as your own, emphasize your supporting role instead.

• Supported the HR team on 15+ projects including best practice research, recruitment support and other ad hoc HR tasks.

Remote teamwork

Whether the role you’re applying for is remote, hybrid, or fully in-person, all companies are seeing the benefits and challenges of remote work. Show that you can navigate this new dimension by mentioning times you’ve led or collaborated with others remotely.

• Managed a cross-functional team of 10 in 3 locations (London, Mumbai and New York), ranging from entry-level to Ph.D. analysts, and closely collaborated with business development, data analysis, operations and marketing teams.

Training and mentoring

Training or teaching others is a specific and valuable type of teamwork skill. Be specific about how many people you trained, who they were, and what you taught them.

• Trained and mentored 20+ new and existing account executives and interns on solutions selling strategies, customer relationship management, and advanced product knowledge.

Working with external stakeholders

Teamwork doesn’t just mean working with people inside your company. Choose examples of times you’ve worked with clients, customers, and external stakeholders, especially if you’ll be doing any of those things in your new role.

• Participated in local client meetings with the Account Executives to develop a rapport with clients, understand sales and talking points of the network, and comprehend the marketing needs of the agencies.

Teamwork skills for students

If you’re applying for entry-level roles, it’s fine to choose accomplishments from extracurricular activities , university projects, and internships and volunteer work to demonstrate basic teamwork skills.

• Conducted and led weekly intern meetings.

Mid-level teamwork skills

In a mid-level role, you should be emphasizing qualities like leadership, initiative , and overall career growth. The best way to do this is by including concrete numbers and metrics that clearly show what you achieved.

• Managed mixed teams of independent contractors and full-time employees dedicated to SEO marketing, data management and content strategy; improved employee retention by 87%.

Senior executive teamwork skills

If you’re applying for high-level roles, like senior management or C-level executive positions , choose examples that show how you’ve worked with top executives and made significant contributions to the company’s bottom line.

• Worked with CEO and 5 development team members to plan strategic goals to grow as a global company in the next 3 years.

Common mistakes to avoid when discussing teamwork on your resume

While demonstrating teamwork skills is essential, it's equally important to avoid common mistakes that can undermine your efforts:

• Vague descriptions : Avoid general statements like "worked in a team" without specifying your role and the outcome. Be as specific as possible about what you did and the impact it had.
• Overusing buzzwords : Terms like "team player" are overused and don’t convey meaningful information. Instead, use specific examples that show how you have effectively worked in a team.
• Ignoring the context : Don't just list teamwork experiences. Explain how these experiences are relevant to the job you're applying for and align your examples with the job requirements.
• Not highlighting remote teamwork : In today’s remote work environment, the ability to collaborate remotely is crucial. If you have experience in this area, make sure to highlight it.
• Neglecting non-work examples : If you lack formal work experience, don’t forget to include teamwork skills demonstrated in volunteer work, sports teams, or university projects.

How to showcase teamwork skills with limited experience

If you have limited direct teamwork experience in your professional career, you can still highlight relevant teamwork skills on your resume by focusing on non-work examples and soft skills related to teamwork. Also, remember that almost every job has some form of teamwork, even if it's small.

• Extracurricular activities and volunteering : If you've been involved in clubs, sports teams, volunteer organizations, or community projects, these can be excellent examples of teamwork. Describe any collaborative projects or group efforts you were a part of.
• Personal or class projects : If you're a student or recent graduate, include any class projects where you worked as part of a team, highlighting your role and contributions to these projects. You can also discuss personal projects where you interacted with others to complete your goals.
• Indirect teamwork experiences : Think about times you've had to coordinate or collaborate with others indirectly, such as working with different departments or contributing to a larger project. Explain how your work supported the team's goals.
• Soft skills related to teamwork : Focus on soft skills that are related to teamwork, such as communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. Provide examples of how you've demonstrated these skills in various settings.
• Learning and adaptability : Show your willingness to learn and adapt to team environments. Mention any relevant courses, workshops, or self-study that have prepared you to work effectively in a team.

Balancing teamwork with individual accomplishments

While teamwork is a competitive soft skill to showcase on any resume, it's important to balance your teamwork experience with individual accomplishments to show a recruiter that you also have the ability and skills to work independently.

Here is how to strike that balance between positive teamwork skills and independent experience:

• Highlight your unique contributions : In your teamwork examples, specify your individual role and contributions. This approach demonstrates your ability to work in a team while also highlighting your unique value. For example, "Contributed to a 20% increase in sales as part of a 5-member team by individually securing a key account that accounted for 5% of the total increase."
• Use the 'I' and 'We' approach : When describing teamwork, use 'we' to discuss the team's achievements and 'I' to emphasize your specific contributions. For instance, "In our project to enhance the company's web platform, we increased overall efficiency by 25% after I developed a key algorithm that reduced processing by 30%."
• Balance your examples : Ensure your resume has a mix of both teamwork and individual accomplishments. This balance shows that you are versatile and capable of thriving in collaborative and independent roles.
• Showcase leadership : If you've held leadership roles, mention how you led the team towards a goal. This demonstrates your ability to manage both the team's success and your responsibilities.

FAQs for how to put teamwork on resume

What if my teamwork experience doesn't align perfectly with the job description.

Even if your past teamwork experiences don't align perfectly, focus on the underlying transferable skills. Emphasize aspects such as communication, conflict resolution, and adaptability, which are valuable in any teamwork setting. Tailor these experiences to demonstrate how they've equipped you for the specific teamwork aspects of the new role.

How do I show teamwork if I've only ever worked independently?

If your work experience is primarily independent, focus on instances where you've had to interact, coordinate, or consult with others. You can also mention informal team roles, such as organizing group activities or being part of a committee, to demonstrate your teamwork capabilities.

How do I demonstrate teamwork skills for remote or virtual teams?

To emphasize your communication and collaboration skills in a virtual environment, mention specific tools or platforms you're familiar with, like Zoom, Slack, or Trello. Highlight experiences where you successfully completed projects or maintained productivity in a remote setting.

Can I showcase teamwork skills with non-professional experience?

Absolutely. Teamwork skills gained from volunteering, sports teams, community projects, or group activities in school or university can be highly relevant. Describe the role you played in these teams and the skills you developed, ensuring they align with what the employer is seeking.

How can I update my resume to reflect teamwork skills after a career break?

Focus on any volunteer work, part-time projects, or informal teamwork experiences you might have had during your break. Highlight any skills or experiences from these activities relevant to teamwork, such as coordination, communication, or collaborative problem-solving.

How can I find out if my resume shows enough teamwork skills?

Just like other soft skills, teamwork is a skill that recruiters do not want to see listed in your skills section , instead they want to see how you’ve used teamwork in your previous roles.

A good way to check if you’ve shown teamwork in your resume accomplishments and bullet points is to upload your resume to the tool below — it’ll scan it and tell you if you’ve shown enough team-based accomplishments and other soft skills such as problem-solving, communication, organization.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• 8 best teamwork skills for...

8 best teamwork skills for your resume (with examples)

10 min read · Updated on April 22, 2024

Prove you're the right fit for the team

When hiring managers are looking for the next new member of their team, they're not just looking for someone who can carry out the day-to-day tasks associated with the role. No, they're also looking for someone who will fit well into their team and contribute as a valued part of that unit. 

With that in mind, it will help your job search efforts if you can show on your resume that you know how to be a good team player. In this post, we'll identify the top 8 teamwork skills to put on your resume and look at how and where to include them. We've got some examples, too, so you can understand the best way to show off this important skill. 

The essential skills for teamwork on your resume

Adding teamwork to your resume isn't as simple as throwing in the line “works well independently and in a team.” In fact, we'd strongly recommend you avoid that line! It's generic, overused, and doesn't show how you add value. Instead, try adding some of these skills to show how you can excel in a team environment:

1. Conflict resolution

Unfortunately, conflict is a fact of life - even more so in a work environment, where you're thrown together for hours on end with people you may not choose to associate with otherwise. It's equally true that conflict doesn't make for a very happy or productive team. If you're the type that can step in to diffuse conflict or prevent it from escalating, that's well worth showcasing on your resume. 

2. Giving and receiving feedback

As companies seek continuous improvement in every aspect of their operation, change is necessary. That could mean change on a company, team, or personal level. But once the need for change is identified, it needs to be communicated. Whether you're the person giving or receiving feedback to enable this change, it's important that it's done graciously, fairly, and non-confrontationally. If that's a skill you have in your arsenal, why not weaponize it on your resume?

3. Communication

Communication  is one of the most vital teamworking skills of all! It encompasses a host of other skills, the main ones being speaking, writing and listening. If you can engage with others, convey information articulately, and understand the concerns of colleagues, you can put some very in-demand teamwork skills on your resume. 

4. Delegation

No one can do everything and knowing when to ask for help is a superpower. If you can recognize that someone else in the team may be better placed than you to complete a certain task, it's time to activate your delegation skills. When you can do this, you're well on your way to mastering a key leadership attribute and working your way further up the career ladder. That's not to say it's OK to offload all your work onto others though - that's likely to lead to bad feeling and rapidly crash team morale .

While you may not always agree with your colleagues, showing respect is non-negotiable for team cohesion. The ability to value others' perspectives and treat other people as you'd like to be treated yourself is hugely important in a team environment. If you can successfully work with the quirks of different personalities without provoking conflict, it could be worth letting your future employers know by showcasing it on your resume. 

6. Collaboration

Collaboration is at the heart of teamwork. Being able to work harmoniously with others is a vital teamwork skill for your resume, so make sure you show how you've achieved strong outcomes by working collaboratively either with your team, with other teams across the business, or even with suppliers and partners. 

7. Positivity

There's nothing quite like a moaner for sucking the lifeblood out of a team. You know the type – always on hand with some salacious gossip, a complaint, or a generally negative attitude. They sow discontent, which leads to low morale and is often accompanied by a decrease in productivity. Prove you're not that person by showing off your positive, can-do attitude on your resume.

8. Relationship building

Some people seem to naturally strike up a rapport with others, while some people find it a bit trickier. If you're the type that can make a friend of anyone, you have a great teamwork skill for your resume. Building positive relationships not only improves team harmony, it's also valuable for engaging wider teams such as suppliers, customers and colleagues from other functions. It's easy to see why it's a great teamwork skill on your resume!

Where to show professional teamwork skills on your resume

Now you know which specific teamwork skills are in demand, but how can you show them off on your resume? There are several places where you could consider adding them. 

In the Profile section 

The Profile is the elevator pitch at the top of your resume. In this short paragraph, the aim is to convince the reader that you have the skills and experience required for the vacant role and that it's worth reading your resume in greater depth. Depending on the role, it may be worth highlighting a couple of teamwork skills here. Make sure the skills you select are the ones most relevant to the vacancy and, if possible, frame them as a success that has directly benefited the business. 

In the Key Skills section 

The Key Skills section seems like the ideal place to add teamwork skills, doesn't it? Not so fast! Ideally, this section will be weighted in favor of hard skills - they're the job-specific skills you've acquired throughout your career. While it's OK to include some soft skills here too, remember that a long list isn't particularly engaging to read and limit yourself to keywords that you find in the job advert. 

In the Professional Experience section 

Now we get to the meat of the matter. In the Professional Experience section, you can really show off and emphasize all those amazing teamwork skills on your resume to position yourself as a fantastic addition to any team. You have a bit more space here to give detail and context, so that you're doing more than just saying “I'm a great team player” - you're actually proving it. 

In the Education or Professional Development section 

These sections aren't traditionally used to show off specific skills but, if you're light on work experience, you can expand this section to demonstrate skills you've gained while studying. Perhaps you were part of a team project at university or completed a course in conflict resolution that you could highlight here. 

In the Hobbies and Interests section 

While the Hobbies and Interests section is by no means obligatory, you can use it to show off skills you've developed outside of work. This is particularly handy if you're struggling to add teamwork skills elsewhere on your resume. Sports teamwork skills are great on a resume for students, for example.

How to add teamwork skills on your resume

As with any skill on your resume, the best way to add it is by showing, rather than telling. That means providing concrete examples of when you've used a particular skill - ideally with a positive outcome that benefited the business or the team. Below you'll find some teamwork skills examples, so that you can fully understand how to incorporate them and use them as inspiration for your own document.

Example of teamwork in the Profile section 

A positive and customer-focused Customer Service Assistant, with an extensive knowledge of the railway network. Confident handling delays, cancellations, and security and takes a calm, professional approach to resolving incidents and complaints. Communicates respectfully with colleagues and customers alike to quickly build a rapport. Possesses an in-depth understanding of health and safety requirements and prioritizes customer welfare. 

Example of teamwork in the Key Skills section 

Product Management   |   Stakeholder Communications   |   Conflict Management   |   Analysis   |   Project Management   |   Strategic Thinking   |   Agile Methodology

Examples of teamwork in the Professional Experience section 

Mediated between a Junior Developer and the Team Manager to resolve conflict over processes, listening to both sides and proposing a solution accepted by both parties 

Conducted performance reviews, provided constructive feedback on areas for improvement and offered support and development opportunities to address them

Liaised with teams across the business, communicating persuasively to win their buy-in to new projects and delivering confident presentations to large audiences

Turned around a delayed project by reviewing plans and delegating tasks fairly across the team, achieving delivery 2 days ahead of the original deadline

Led by example to build a cohesive and productive team that respected and valued each other despite having very different personalities

Negotiated a $10,000 cost reduction with a supplier, having collaborated with them to identify and address inefficiencies in the current supply process

Motivated colleagues to complete a complex project on time by adopting a positive, can-do attitude to overcoming challenges

Increased team output by 15% by instilling a sense of common purpose through team-building exercises and optional team social events

Example of teamwork skills in the Education section 

Course: Conflict Management and Resolution, 2024

BSc degree: French and English Literature, University of Alabama, 2023

Gained skills in collaboration and delegation as leader of a group project

Example of teamwork skills in the Hobbies and Interests section 

Soccer player:  Contributed significantly to the team that won the Alabama Youth Cup

PTA member:   Collaborated with other parents to raise $10,000 for the school 

Other words for team working

Of course, you don't want to repeat “teamwork” and “team working” multiple times throughout your resume. Switch up the vocabulary to ensure you're presenting a compelling and engaging read. Try these ideas: 

Collaborating

Communicating

Cooperating

Supporting 

Working together

How to improve your teamwork skills 

Not everyone was born a natural collaborator and not everyone has had the opportunity to contribute to a team before they first hit the job market. If you're looking to develop or improve your teamwork skills, there are plenty of ways to do so.

Understand your role

By fully understanding your role in the team and the role of the team in the wider business, you'll be equipped to fulfill your responsibilities and support others in fulfilling theirs. Hold yourself accountable for completing all your tasks, as they will likely impact other members of the team. 

Stay open minded

Actively seek feedback and act on it. Listen to what others are saying and try to look at issues from their perspective. Accept differences rather than taking a negative attitude. 

Get organized

An organized team member is a reliable team member, so plan, schedule, use apps, and set yourself deadlines to ensure you're not letting anyone down. 

Push yourself

Ask if there are opportunities to contribute to teams beyond your day-to-day role - if a project is looming, you may get the chance to work as part of a different team, with different objectives and different perspectives. Take the opportunity to learn from others and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. 

Teamwork skills on a resume are essential!

Whichever role or industry you're aiming for, it's almost guaranteed that you'll be part of a team – small or large, on-site or remote, traditional or matrix. Therefore, it makes sense that you dedicate a corner of your resume to proving your skills in this area. With our advice, you're now well-placed to make sure your resume demonstrates your excellence in this area. 

If you'd like an expert eye on your resume before you send it out to recruiters and hiring managers, why not submit it for a free, no obligation resume review ?

Recommended reading:

The 10 Secrets of Effective Team Management

11 Best Administrative Skills for Your Resume (With Examples)

How to Create an Effective STAR Method Resume (With Examples)

Related Articles:

How to Write a Short Bio? (With Examples)

ISTP Personality Type: Understanding Traits, Strengths, and Career Paths

7 Best Personal Skills for Your Resume (With Examples)

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7 Teamwork Skills for Your Resume & Career (W/ Tips & Examples)

Teamwork is essential for practically any job out there - even the ones where you mostly get to work alone.

That’s because teamwork skills allow you to get along with your coworkers, come up with more creative ideas and solutions to problems, and foster an overall positive work environment. 

So, it’s no wonder that the vast majority of employers prefer job-seekers with teamwork skills.

But, which are the most important teamwork skills and how can you prove to the hiring manager that you have them?

In this article, we’re going to teach you just that!

Read on to learn: 

• Why Are Teamwork Skills Important?
• 7 Teamwork Skills and Examples
• How to Add Your Teamwork Skills to Your Resume

10 Ways to Improve Your Teamwork Skills

And more! Let’s dive in. 

What Is Teamwork?

Teamwork is the ability to work effectively with other people to achieve a common goal. 

Teamwork skills , on the other hand, are a set of soft skills that allow you to successfully collaborate with others to achieve a professional, academic, or personal goal. 

For example:

• In a professional setting , teamwork skills allow you to better collaborate with your teammates, and in turn, get better work done.
• In an academic setting , strong teamwork skills help you ace group projects or excel at extracurricular activities .
• And finally, in your personal life , teamwork skills allow you to better get along with your peers and family and help you meet your personal goals.

And the icing on the cake? Teamwork skills are one of the most in-demand skills in today’s job market.

According to a study by Queens University, nearly 3 out of 4 employers rate teamwork and collaboration as very important , while 39% of surveyed employees worldwide say that people in their organizations don’t collaborate enough. 

But what is it exactly that makes teamwork skills so sought after for employers and employees alike? 

Why Are Teamwork Skills Important? 

Whether you need to cooperate with two or more colleagues to solve an issue, brainstorm new strategies, or put a plan into action, teamwork skills are going to help you get it done.

Some of the most important benefits of having strong teamwork skills are:

• Better work environment. Team players communicate more efficiently and are less likely to get into big disagreements, which means that teamwork skills reduce the likelihood of conflicts in the workplace.
• Efficient problem-solving . You’re a lot more likely to come up with an effective solution to a problem if you collaborate with other people (than if you go at it solo). Sometimes, other people might have some key insights from their experience that you don’t.
• Better customer relations. According to a study by ResearchGate, the better the teamwork, the higher the quality of services employees can offer. Meaning, better teamwork skills in an organization equals more satisfied clients.
• Higher employability. Teamwork skills are among the most in-demand transferable skills out there. Whatever job you might be applying for, strong teamwork skills are definitely going to come in handy.
• Smaller chance for burnout . When you collaborate with your colleagues, you’re likely to get more work done with less conflict. This, in turn, leads to less anxiety and stress at work, making you significantly less likely to suffer from burnout.
• Increased productivity. Goes without saying, a team of people can get more things done than an individual. By effectively collaborating with your team, you’re a lot more motivated to work, as well as more likely to come up with solutions to problems at work.

7 Teamwork Skills and Examples 

Teamwork isn’t just ONE skill. Rather, it’s a mix of several qualities that can make you a great team player. 

Below, we’ll go over the most important teamwork skills that you can use to create a memorable resume and land your next job! 

#1. Communication

Communication is, by far, the most important teamwork skill.

To be able to cooperate with others, you should be able to speak your mind clearly and listen actively . Typically, good communicators can also present information well and read non-verbal cues such as people’s facial expressions and body language. 

In a nutshell, communication skills are what ensure that you understand your team members and that they understand you. 

For example, if you need a coworker to cover for you at work while you’re away but you lack communication skills, they may fail to understand what, exactly, your tasks are, and how to carry them out effectively.

Communication is a multi-faceted skill that consists of: 

• Oral and written communication
• Active listening
• Non-verbal communication
• Public speaking
• Presentation skills

#2. Conflict Resolution 

Conflict resolution refers to the process and set of skills required to effectively resolve a conflict between two or more individuals. 

Wherever people work together - be it in an office, remotely, or on the field - conflict of some scale is bound to happen. 

Whether it’s something small like how to approach a task or something like personal hostility from a coworker, it’s essential to solve the issue.

And that’s where conflict resolution skills come in handy!

Some skills that are associated with conflict resolution are: 

• Assertiveness

#3. Compromise

Compromise, or the ability to make concessions, is another essential teamwork skill. 

Making a compromise means being able to put your ego aside, reduce your demands, take other people’s thoughts into account, and change your own opinions in order to reach a settlement or find common ground.

Take, for example, a team of four people who want to start a startup. Each individual may have different opinions about how to get funding, how to manage employees, how to get clients, etc. 

If none of them is able to compromise on these matters, they may never be able to move forward with the startup. 

A way to compromise in this situation, on the other hand, would be to assign a separate responsibility to each person based on their experience (e.g. one person be responsible for funding, one for management, etc.).  

There are many ways to reach compromise depending on the situation; what’s important is for everyone involved to actually want to do it. 

#4. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence means being aware of, controlling, perceiving, and expressing emotions, as well as handling interpersonal relations, in a fair and empathetic manner. 

When it comes to teamwork, emotional intelligence involves putting yourself in others’ shoes and understanding each person’s perspective. 

Some examples of showing emotional intelligence in the workplace include:

• Understanding why a teammate failed to complete a certain task and helping them solve the issue.
• Understanding that an introverted coworker might feel more comfortable communicating over text, so not pushing them too hard to do calls.
• Understanding why someone else might have an issue with something you said, even though you might find nothing wrong with it.

#5. Tolerance

If you’re part of a team, you’ll likely be required to work with people who are different from you. 

And, chances are, you won’t always agree with them and their opinions. 

In such cases, it’s important to be tolerant toward your team members. 

In a nutshell, tolerance is the ability to tolerate the existence of opinions and behavior that one disagrees with. 

Remember, tolerance isn’t about blindly accepting everyone’s opinions or behaviors, but about not judging them simply because you disagree with them. 

If, for example, you can give arguments as to why a coworker’s behavior is harmful (e.g. they’re being ageist toward senior employees), then that’s definitely something you want to discuss with a supervisor. 

If, on the other hand, a teammate wants to approach a task in their own way (which is different from how you’d handle it), then you should simply let it go.

#6. Reliability

Team members that can’t rely on each other simply don’t make a good team. 

Would you be able to cooperate with someone who you can’t trust to meet deadlines, deliver quality work, or hold themselves accountable for their mistakes? 

Probably not. 

Being reliable means that other people can trust you, count on you, and vouch for you. Not just that, but it also means that people will also go out of their way to be just as reliable toward you. 

Basically, reliability is the foundation of trust and, as such, an integral part of teamwork. 

#7. Team Building

If you’re a manager or a team leader, you need to know how to build a team too. 

For a team to be as effective and successful as possible, every team member needs to have a role. This is to ensure that each person is dealing with a different task, that they’re utilizing their strengths effectively, and that there are no miscommunications and misunderstandings among team members. 

Dr. Raymond Belbin, a British researcher and management consultant, has identified nine different team roles in his research, such as “the coordinator,” “the resource investigator,” “the plant,” “the specialist,” etc. 

While it’s not necessary for every team to have these exact same roles, it’s important to know how to build a team with well-defined goals and objectives, roles for each member, purpose, action plan, and so on. 

Like any other soft skill, teamwork skills CAN be learned!

Here are our top 10 tips on how to improve your teamwork skills:

• Know your goals. In addition to the team’s common goal, each team member has smaller targets. Being clear on what those goals and targets are is important to establish trust and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
• Clarify your roles. In every team, each member has a role. Understanding your role can help you avoid miscommunications about who was supposed to do what.
• Stay positive. How we think often defines how we act. If you keep a positive mindset when you’re collaborating with others, that’ll surely reflect on the team’s performance and productivity.
• Hone your organizational skills . The better your organizational skills, the more reliable you’ll be within the team and the more your team members will be able to trust you.
• Establish rules. Clearly define and understand the team’s do-s and don’t-s. That’ll ensure everyone’s on the same page and no one oversteps any boundaries.
• Socialize. By hanging out with other team members outside of work, you’ll be able to get to know them better and see them as more than just people you have to work with.
• Ask for feedback. No better way to improve than by asking your team members for feedback on your strengths and weaknesses .
• Communicate openly. Miscommunications can lead to conflict. Make sure to always speak your mind and voice your concerns, and at the same time, be open to other team members doing exactly the same.
• Praise others. Celebrate your team members, give positive feedback where it’s due, and share enthusiasm for small and big achievements alike.
• Don’t fight over credit. The point of teamwork is to achieve a common goal, not personal gratification. As such, focus on the bigger picture instead of fighting over who accomplishes what.

How to Add Your Teamwork Skills To Your Resume

Want to show off your amazing teamwork skills?

Then you should add them to your resume!

There is, however, a right and wrong way to do this. Below, we’re going to walk you through the entire process of effectively highlighting your teamwork skills in your resume, step by step.

Before that, though, make sure to pick one of our free resume templates and fill it in as you go! 

#1. Mention Them In Your Resume Summary 

The first place to mention your teamwork skills is in your resume summary . 

The resume summary is a short, two or three-sentence-long paragraph that typically describes: 

• Your years of experience and professional title 
• Your top skills and qualifications 
• Your most noteworthy accomplishments

Done right, the resume summary is supposed to grab the hiring manager’s attention right away, spike their interest, and get them to read the rest of your resume in more detail. 

Here’s an example of an attention-grabbing resume summary that highlights the candidate’s teamwork skills:

• Dedicated IT project manager with 6+ years of experience in management, research, and resource planning. Excellent communication and teamwork skills. Managed 5+ IT projects over the past 3 years, ensuring that the products met client specifications and were delivered on time.

#2. List Them Under Your Soft Skills 

Secondly, you should list your teamwork skills under your skills section. 

Usually, the skills section is divided into soft skills (e.g. communication, teamwork, organizational skills, etc.) and hard skills ( computer skills , foreign languages, etc.), and can look something like this: 

Simply create a Soft Skills section and list out your teamwork skills.

That said, there IS one thing to keep in mind here.

Don’t try to impress recruiters by filling up this section with as many teamwork skills as you can think of. Instead, you want to add the skills that you actually possess and that are required for the job . 

Here’s just how you can do that: 

• Check the job description for the exact skills required for the position. If you’re applying for a marketing role, for example, the job ad might ask for “strong communication skills” rather than just “teamwork skills.” 
• Identify your skills. You probably don’t possess each and every skill listed in the job ad. Instead of listing out all the teamwork skills we’ve outlined here, identify 2-3 of the ones that you can prove with experience.
• Add them under your soft skills. Finally, take the skills you’ve identified and list them under soft skills . 

#3. Prove Them In Your Work Experience Section 

Last but not least, you should mention your teamwork skills in your work experience section .

This is arguably the most important part of every resume because it’s where you can prove that you actually possess the skills that you’ve mentioned so far. 

Here’s how you can effectively list your teamwork skills in your work experience section:

• Tailor your work experience to the position. You don’t want the hiring manager to think you’re using the same generic resume to apply to hundreds of jobs. As such, make sure to keep your work entries relevant. For example, if you’re applying for a job as a social media manager, you should mention your professional experience as a reporter but not the time you waited tables in college. 
• Focus on your achievements . Everyone writes their responsibilities on their resume. If you want to make an impression, you want to show how you made an impact with your achievements. So, think up and write some achievements for every skill you’ve identified. 
• Make them quantifiable. Backing up your achievements with numbers will leave no trace of doubt in the hiring manager’s mind about your skills. After all, “collaborated with all department heads to innovate HR procedures that reduced employee turnover by 17%” sounds significantly better than “collaborated with coworkers to update HR procedures,” right? 

And here’s a practical example of teamwork skills listed in the work experience section:  

• Collaborated with the marketing team to schedule and execute a new product launch. 
• Worked with a team of five people to implement a project management solution in the company, boosting company-wide productivity by 13%.

When applying for the job, you’ll need to submit a cover letter alongside your resume. If teamwork skills are essential for the position you’re applying for, make sure to mention them there too. 

Interview Questions and Sample Answers on Teamwork Skills

If teamwork skills are important for the role you're applying for, chances are that the hiring manager will ask you to talk in more detail about your teamwork skills during the job interview. 

In this section, we’ll teach you just how you can answer teamwork-related interview questions!

The first thing you should know is that the interviewer will probably inquire about your teamwork skills through a behavioral question . 

When interviewers ask behavioral interview questions, they want to know exactly how you behaved in a specific situation, instead of what you think or what you know about something. 

So, instead of asking you “what’s your greatest strength,” they may ask “tell me about a time  you used your greatest strength to accomplish something at work?”

Luckily, there’s a tried-and-tested strategy for answering behavioral interview questions: the STAR method. 

STAR stands for: 

• Situation - Describe the situation. 
• Task - Talk about the task or the issue at hand. 
• Action - Describe the actions you took. 
• Result - Describe the results of your actions. 

So, let’s say that the interviewer asks you the following:

Q: Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone completely different from you. How did you adapt to collaborate better?

Here’s how you’d answer following the STAR method :

Situation: Sure, I always enjoy working with new and different people, they always bring something new to the table! At Company X, there was a particularly young developer who was assigned to work with me on a new software development project, and I was to run him through what our typical coding process was like.

Task: It was also my job to get to know him and find common ground so that we could effectively work together. The fact that he was younger wasn’t an issue for me, but because he was completely self-taught, he didn’t know a lot about the methodologies we used.

Action: Teaching him everything from scratch would take too much time. So, instead, I briefly explained the development process we were using for that specific project and taught him how to write tests for our code base. 

Results: In the end, he surprised me with how much of a fast learner he was. He just needed a bit of encouragement and guidance. Through this approach, he learned our whole routine in less than a week, while most of our new hires needed at least up to two weeks. Meanwhile, I also learned a lot about multitasking and time management from him.

Key Takeaways

And that’s about all you need to know on how to improve your teamwork skills!

Before you go, here’s a quick recap of the most important points we covered in this article:

• Teamwork skills are a set of soft skills that allow you to successfully collaborate with others to achieve a professional, academic, or personal goal. 
• Benefits that come with teamwork include a better work environment, more efficient problem-solving, improved customer relations, higher employability, and less likelihood of burnout.
• Some skills associated with teamwork are communication, conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, compromise, tolerance, and reliability.
• Mention your teamwork skills in your resume summary, list them under your soft skills, and prove that you have them in your work experience section. 
• Some ways to improve your teamwork skills include knowing your goals and being clear about each person’s role within the team, keeping a positive mindset, establishing rules and guidelines, hanging out outside of the office, and fostering open communication. 

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How Should you Show That you Have Teamwork Skills on Your Resume?

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In This Guide:

What are teamwork skills, why are teamwork skills important on your resume, what skills, activities, and accomplishments help you highlight your teamwork skills, teamwork skills: key takeaways for your resume.

The famous Napoleon Hill says: "It is literally true that you can succeed best and quickest by helping others to succeed”. In essence, this is why working in a team is so important not just in the business world, but basically in our everyday environments.

People who possess teamwork skills are capable of communicating and collaborating with peers with ease, they can create a sense of unity among a group of people, and even motivate them to pursue common goals.

Therefore, teamwork skills are the qualities and abilities that one needs to effectively interact with others. This can be as part of a group that is working to solve a common problem or achieve a mutual objective. Simple as that.

Business projects get more and more complicated by the day, and we have all felt that. No longer can we fool ourselves that any task can be a “one-man-show”.

Here comes the importance of teams - the unit that can turn any intimidating task into a successfully realized project.

Teamwork leads to progress, brings more motivation and accountability, as well as a sense of group cohesion. Not to mention the more measurable benefits related to increased efficiency and quality.

No matter how big or small a company is, the management would prefer employees to be resourceful and self-sustainable.

In this way, the CMO would mind his/her own strategy-related tasks without having to interfere with the work of the team of Social Media Specialists.

Just imagine the wonders that can happen if every member of a product management team possess teamwork skills. Effective communication would flow naturally and innovation will flourish as colleagues engage in knowledge-sharing.

You get the picture. Does this sound like you? If you wonder how exactly you can demonstrate these skills in your resume, read on further.

Adding buzzwords to your resume such as “a strong team player” or “teamwork advocate” can be of small use. But it won’t really convince your future employer that you don’t even have to go to a group interview.

So how can you convey such self-explanatory teamwork abilities? Break them down into small chunks of soft and people skills that are needed for any kind of effective collaboration. Here are a few of the main such skills:

• Reliability & Conflict management: gaining the trust and the respect of your fellow team members is a core prerequisite for building good relations. To do that you need to show that you have their back and can be relied on. This might also help you resolve and prevent conflicts from arising.
• Feedback skills & Decision-making : productivity requires many brainstorming sessions and fast decisions. To be a meaningful part of a group and have your voice heard, you need to give and receive feedback in the right manner. This leads to overall better decision-making for the whole group.
• Planning and Flexibility: organizing a workflow to suit the needs of a whole group is so much more difficult than doing task management for yourself only. That is why teamwork requires that everyone stays well-organized but also prepared for last-minute change of plans.

How to demonstrate teamwork skills on your resume:

• Mention times when you have achieved great results when you have both worked independently and as part of a team.
• Give examples of the accomplishments of your teams that you are proud of.
• Explain what specific role you have had in a team and what impact did you have on the successful implementation of projects.
• Illustrate that you have been a vibrant team member that is not only a valued colleague but also perceived as a friend.

Being a teamplayer, does not mean that you are not capable of working fine independently. It just means that when you gather with other people with teamwork skills, you can make 1+1=3.

That is what you can focus on in the examples in each section of your resume. As we outlined above, the value added and the associated increased business output is the most enticing element for employers.

By this time, you should already have a basic idea about how to build your resume in a way that it shows your teamwork skills. If you need an additional boost of inspiration, take a look at these short resume examples of Enhancv users.

Example 1: Demonstrate teamwork skills in the experience section

Job situation: Junior Business Analyst applies for the position of a Junior Project Manager

• • Worked in a team with 6 other Junior Business Analysts and together we managed to increase customer satisfaction with 15%.
• • Used data to identify how my team can make better decisions and improve its strategy.
• • Initiated the practice of having weekly team meetings for bonding in out-of-work time.
• • Led a team of 10 interns in their first week in the Group.

Emphasize the importance that your team work had on your daily work. Talk about what you have been able to achieve as part of a team. Also don’t miss to mention that you are social and like to build strong relationships with your teammates.

In this example, the candidate has highlighted that he has worked individually to figure out how his/her team can improve its strategy. This communicates better than anything that you can make 1+1=3.

In addition, demonstrating that you are able to work in multiple teams and fit into any group is a bonus. You can do that by giving an example of a time when you have participated in interns onboarding week.

Example 2: Demonstrate teamwork skills in the resume summary section

Job situation: Business Development Representative applies for the position of Account Manager

It would really make the difference if you are able to highlight that your teamwork skills have been recognized by your colleagues and managers.

In this resume example, the candidate shows that he/she has been promoted to take charge of the whole team.

Example 3: Show your teamwork skills in your achievements sections

Job situation - HR Specialist applies for the position of HR Manager

In the achievements sections, you should aim to create a narrative and complement the impression that you have built up to this point.

Here, you can highlight both the achievements that you have made together with your team as well as your personal achievements.Just make sure you stay focused on highlighting your soft social skills.

Example 4: Demonstrate the skill through other sections of your resume

Don’t be shy to speak about any sports club, chess group, or volunteering initiative that you have been a member of. It will be of your best advantage if you are also able to show off with some form of recognition that you have gained as part of these clubs.

Also, mention your interest, your free time activities and hobbies. If you are kind of a person who likes to just be around people, this will help you communicate your social nature.

And last but not least, what a better way to communicate your teamwork skills than having someone else praise you for them? Include some references by your former colleagues or employers at the end.

• Show your genuine team-oriented personality: through examples illustrate that you actually enjoy working with others and this is part of your personality. From the perspective of your employer this would mean that you will do great in any team.
• Present yourself as a team player who can also work independently: even though you are trying to communicate that you have exceptional teamwork skills, avoid making the impression that you can’t work independently.

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Teamwork Skills on a Resume: What They Are and Why They Matter

3 key takeaways

• Teamwork skills defined and why they’re important
• Effective teamwork skills employers love to see on your resume (with examples)
• Adding teamwork skills to your resume with Teal’s AI Resume Builder

When you're searching for a new role, every advantage counts. So it’s essential to highlight the right skills—the right way—in your resume and cover letter. 

Adding teamwork skills for resume summaries, work experience, and more isn't just about buzzwords. These skills are fundamental in modern, collaborative, often remote work settings. Showcasing these skills assures hiring managers and recruiters that you’re a good team player who can work well with others toward a common goal. 

Showcasing these key teamwork skills on a resume needs to go a little deeper than simple bullet points, reading “great communication skills” or “effective problem-solving skills.” To really grab a potential employer's attention, you’ll need to get descriptive. 

Teamwork skills defined 

Good teamwork skills are the abilities and qualities that enable you to work effectively in a group setting alongside your other team members.

These skills encompass communication, collaboration, team building skills and balancing team and individual responsibilities. They're essential for navigating the complexities of working with others toward a common goal.

Why teamwork skills on a resume are important

In today's dynamic work environment, teamwork skills are more crucial than ever. 

Basic teamwork skills:

• Facilitate smooth collaboration in diverse groups, ensuring everyone feels included and valued.
• Ensure each member's strengths are fully recognized and effectively utilized.
• Contribute to a positive work culture, creating an environment where everyone feels motivated and engaged.
• Foster innovation through shared creativity and open-minded exchange of ideas.
• Drive success through collective effort, combining individual talents for greater achievements.

How to add teamwork skills on your resume

Your teamwork skills are a part of who you are, reflecting your multifaceted character as a person and a job candidate. 

And just like these skills are woven into different parts of your character, you should describe teamwork skills throughout different parts of your resume. 

Before you get started, make sure the skills you want to list are relevant to the role you're applying to. Read the job description. Find the specific keywords and phrases that refer to the concept of teamwork. (Think team player, positive mindset, planning skills, effective team member, etc.)

Pro Tip: The Teal AI Resume Builder and Job Application Tracker pull the top keywords from any job description to simplify and streamline this process.

Then, instead of limiting these to a single resume "Skills" section (which should be reserved for hard or technical skills as often as possible), include specific teamwork skills in a variety of sections—like as part of your professional summary and in your work experience achievements alongside impact.

This approach highlights how integral teamwork is in your professional story  and  how you used it for success in different contexts and roles.

Add teamwork skills to your resume with Teal

The free Teal AI Resume Builder makes adding teamwork skills to every section of your resume seamless.

Highlight the most impactful keywords in each job description so you know exactly what a company is looking for, and then frame your skills in the most relevant way. Add, remove, and edit the content of every section as often as you'd like. (And then see how well your qualifications align with Matching Mode!)

Top 8 teamwork skills for your resume

When it comes to standing out to potential employers, highlighting your teamwork skills can make a big difference.

Below are the top eight teamwork skills that employers keep an eye out for on a resume, plus some teamwork skills examples.

These skills not only demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively in positive team environment but also show your potential to contribute positively to the team dynamics and overall organizational goals.

1. Communication

A resume soft skill like communication is vital because it underpins the ability to connect, resolve conflicts, and build strong relationships in professional settings.

And it's not just about talking.

Strong communication skills are about being able to listen, give feedback, and track progress. 

Good teams make open communication a priority, which leads to fewer mistakes and a more productive work environment. If you can communicate well, you'll be a valuable asset to any team.

Example: As a team leader, facilitated 100+ cross-functional team meetings, ensuring clear communication and planning that resulted in 98% on-time project completion.

2. Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills

Challenges and disagreements are common in team environments, and employers love people who can handle these situations tactfully and efficiently. 

Proficiency in problem-solving and conflict management means not only coming up with solutions but also making sure they work for everyone on the team. 

Highlighting these skills shows potential employers that you're a great team player who can minimize friction and help the group achieve its goals.

Example: Mediated and resolved a resource distribution conflict between the marketing and sales teams, leading to a balanced solution that enhanced project efficiency by 15%.

3. Relationship-building and active listening 

While resume hard skills are important for getting the job done, soft skills like building relationships and actively listening make teams work better together.

Building strong relationships involves recognizing and appreciating each team member’s unique talents. 

Active listening skills show that you're committed to understanding your colleagues' points of view and valuing their contributions.

Example: Established key relationships with stakeholders across company departments like product and design, streamlining communication and collaboration, which resulted in a 20% reduction in workflow redundancies.

4. Adaptability

Employees who can graciously accept feedback, like revising a report based on their manager's suggestions or changing a presentation based on team input, show they’re adaptable and dedicated to doing their best work. 

Similarly, employees should be able to give constructive feedback in a positive team dynamic and environment, like suggesting a colleague change the layout of a report for clarity or advising a team on how to optimize a workflow process. This shows that they’re committed to the team's success and understand the task at hand.

Example: Actively incorporated team feedback to overhaul the quarterly review process, resulting in a more efficient system, reducing review process time required by 25%

5. Reliability

Everyone needs to consistently perform for the most successful team dynamics. Being reliable means your team can count on you to meet deadlines, turn in high-quality work, and fulfill your daily responsibilities. 

Be sure to highlight your reliability with specific examples from your work experience. You want to showcase that you're trustworthy and consistently professional—a trait employers highly value.

Example: Consistently maintained a 98% on-time completion rate for all assigned tasks, ensuring steady project progression and trust among team members.

6. Accountability

Taking responsibility for your actions, owning up to your successes and failures, and understanding how your actions affect the team are fundamental workplace skills.

When you're accountable, you're proactive in finding solutions to problems and preventing them from happening again. Potential employers will see this as a sign that you're reliable, mature, self-aware, and invested in the team's success.

Example: Identified and resolved a critical discrepancy in the supply chain coordination process, improving alignment and communication between suppliers and warehouse operations, resulting in a 10% increase in overall operational efficiency.

7. Decision-making

Decision-making is an essential teamwork skill, especially when it comes to project management. 

In group projects, the ability to make informed, timely, and effective decisions often determines the project's success. 

People who can make quick decisions keep projects moving forward, and they're also essential in tough situations. When you emphasize your decision-making skills to potential employers, you show them that you can make strategic choices to help the team reach its goals.

Example: Successfully led a team through a strategic pivot from traditional to digital marketing methods for a key project, focusing on innovative quality improvement strategies. This shift resulted in a 20% enhancement in the quality of deliverables and notably heightened client and customer satisfaction afterward.

8. Organizational and planning skills

A well-planned project means that the team can work systematically toward its goals. When you highlight your planning and resume organizational skills , you show that you're good at strategic thinking, risk management, and leading a team effectively.

Example: Efficiently managed a complex project timeline, coordinating efforts across five key departments. This meticulous planning and collaboration resulted in synchronized deliverables and a substantial 15% reduction in overall project time.

Strategies for improving your teamwork skills

If you're reading this, you're probably keen on not just showcasing examples of teamwork skills but enhancing them. 

Continuous personal and professional development always pays off, and when it comes to teamwork, the ripple effects can benefit an entire organization—and position you as a top candidate. 

Here are just a few ways to step up your teamwork skills now:

• Continuous learning: Attend workshops, webinars, or courses on teamwork and communication. They'll offer insights and tools to refine your approach to working collaboratively.
• Seek feedback: Regularly request feedback from current team members about your performance. This proactive approach shows your commitment to improving and makes you more receptive to positive changes.
• Engage in team building activities: These can be formal or informal. Trust-building exercises, retreats, or even simple team lunches can foster stronger bonds and understanding.
• Practice active listening: Focus on truly understanding what someone is saying before responding. This deepens understanding and reduces the chances of misunderstandings.
• Enhance emotional intelligence (EI): Recognizing and respecting emotional responses—both yours and your colleagues’—is fundamental in teamwork. Consider training or readings to boost your EI.
• Delegate wisely: If you're in a leadership position, understand the strengths and weaknesses of your team members. Assigning the right tasks to the right people can optimize results and foster a sense of ownership and pride in team members.
• Embrace diversity: Understand and respect diverse perspectives. Different viewpoints can lead to more comprehensive solutions. It’s essential to ensure all voices are heard and valued.
• Adopt conflict resolution techniques: Misunderstandings are inevitable in team settings. Knowing how to manage and resolve them amicably is key.
• Stay current with technology trends: With many teams working remotely, leveraging tools to collaborate is paramount. Familiarize yourself with the latest collaboration tools and platforms.
• Reflect and reset: After completing team projects or milestones, take a moment to reflect. What went well? What can be improved? Use this as a learning opportunity for the next project.

Incorporating these strategies into your current work will enhance your teamwork skills and make you a valuable asset to future employers. Remember, the essence of teamwork lies in mutual respect, understanding, and the collective drive to achieve common goals.

Teamwork is key in today's workplace, so showing off your teamwork skills can really make your resume stand out. From effective communication to strategic planning, highlighting your teamwork skills shows you can thrive in collaborative environments. 

Want to take your teamwork skills to the next level? Write your resume with Teal's AI Resume Builder. With Teal, you can pull the right teamwork skills from any job description, align your content, then see how well your skills match the position and make as many edits as you'd like. (Plus, if you're not sure where to start, use the generative AI for personalized suggestions on how to showcase your skills in a powerful way)

Ready to showoff those teamwork skills on your resume?   Sign up for Teal today .

Frequently Asked Questions

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Important Teamwork Skills in a Resume: Definition & Examples

In today’s workforce, teamwork skills are vital to career success. As the world becomes more interconnected, individuals with strong teamwork skills are highly sought after by employers.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the importance of teamwork skills in a resume, and give examples of how these skills can be demonstrated. We will delve into key aspects of teamwork, such as communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution, and explore how these skills can make a positive impact on the workplace.

If you are a job seeker, this article will provide practical advice on how to highlight your teamwork skills in your resume, cover letter, and job interview. We will discuss the most effective ways to showcase your ability to work effectively with others, and demonstrate why teamwork is a critical component of any successful career.

By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what teamwork skills are, why they are so important, and how you can use them to further your career. Whether you are just starting out in your career or looking to take the next step, this article will help you to position yourself as a valuable member of any team.

Definition of Teamwork Skills in a Resume

Teamwork skills are a set of abilities and behaviors that enable individuals to effectively work together towards a common goal. These skills are essential in the workplace, as they facilitate collaboration, communication, and cooperation among team members. They also help improve productivity, creativity, and innovation, as well as promote a positive and supportive work environment.

Employers value teamwork skills because they recognize the important role that collaboration plays in achieving business objectives. In fact, many job postings specifically require candidates to demonstrate their ability to work effectively in a team environment. This is particularly true for industries that require a high degree of coordination and cooperation among team members, such as healthcare, construction, and technology.

When listing teamwork skills on a resume, it is important to be specific about the abilities and behaviors you possess that demonstrate your ability to work effectively with others. Here are some of the most commonly sought-after teamwork skills:

Communication Skills

Strong communication skills are essential for effective collaboration among team members. This includes the ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, actively listen to others, provide constructive feedback, and ask questions to clarify misunderstandings.

Leadership Skills

Leadership skills are important for individuals who are responsible for managing teams or projects. This includes the ability to inspire and motivate team members, delegate tasks effectively, and provide guidance and support when needed.

Conflict Resolution Skills

Effective conflict resolution skills are important for managing interpersonal conflicts and maintaining a positive work environment. This includes the ability to identify areas of conflict, negotiate solutions that address the needs of all stakeholders, and facilitate open and honest communication.

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. This is particularly important in a team environment, where individuals must be able to navigate complex social dynamics and build strong relationships with others.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Flexibility and adaptability are important for individuals who work in rapidly changing environments, such as startups or fast-paced industries. This includes the ability to adjust to new situations, work effectively with diverse teams, and remain open to new ideas and approaches.

By including these and other teamwork skills on your resume, you can demonstrate to potential employers that you are a strong collaborator who is able to work effectively in a team environment. This can increase your chances of landing your dream job and advancing your career.

How to Showcase Teamwork Skills in a Resume

If you want to impress potential employers with your teamwork abilities, you need to showcase them effectively in your resume. Here are the most effective ways to demonstrate your teamwork skills:

Overview of effective ways

Include a team player statement: Start with a brief statement in your summary that emphasizes your ability to work well in a team. This will grab the employer’s attention and convey your collaborative nature.

Mention team projects: Highlight any team projects you’ve worked on and include details on your role and contributions. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate with others and work towards a common goal.

Use power words: When listing your experiences, use power words that imply collaboration and teamwork. Some examples include: co-created, collaborated, contributed, supported, and assisted.

Volunteer experiences: Volunteer experiences can provide great examples of your teamwork abilities. Include any volunteering experiences that required you to work closely with a team, whether it was on a project or during an event.

Guidance on keywords and phrases

When including teamwork experiences throughout your resume, make use of keywords and phrases. For instance:

• Collaborated with team members to develop a new product launch strategy.
• Contributed to cross-functional initiatives by providing creative solutions.
• Supported the team in achieving project milestones by providing help and guidance.
• Assisted in coordinating team meetings and agendas.

Including keywords and phrases that outline your collaboration and teamwork abilities will help capture the employer’s attention.

Proving teamwork abilities

Lastly, prove your teamwork abilities by including accomplishments that demonstrate your experience in leading or contributing to teams. For example:

• Led a cross-functional team of five to develop a comprehensive marketing campaign resulting in 20% increase in sales.
• Contributed to a team of 10 in successfully completing a project ahead of time and under budget.
• Assisted in managing, training and mentoring new team members resulting in a 98% retention rate.

By including these accomplishments, you’re showing potential employers that you’re a valuable team player who can be relied upon for results.

Including your teamwork skills in your resume can significantly improve your chances of landing your next job. Highlighting your collaboration abilities, using power words, and showing your contributions to teams will demonstrate your capabilities to employers.

Top Important Teamwork Skills to Highlight in a Resume

When it comes to landing your dream job, it’s not just about having the technical skills or experience. Nowadays, employers are putting more emphasis on teamwork skills. Being able to work well with others is imperative for any business or organization to succeed. Here’s a closer look at the top important teamwork skills that employers are seeking in today’s job market.

Communication

Communication is one of the most crucial teamwork skills. You can have the best ideas, but if you can’t communicate them effectively with others, they won’t go very far. Make sure to highlight any experience you have in communicating and collaborating on group projects. Communication can be both verbal and nonverbal, so don’t forget to demonstrate your listening skills as well.

Active Listening

Active listening is all about paying attention to what your teammates are saying and understanding their perspective. It’s more than just hearing words; it’s about comprehending the meaning behind them. Demonstrating your active listening skills can impress potential employers as it shows that you value your team members’ input and want to work together to achieve a common goal.

Conflict Resolution

Conflict is an inevitable part of any team dynamic. What’s important is how you handle it. Highlight any experience you have in resolving disputes that occurred during group projects. Employers are looking for team members who have the ability to work collaboratively toward a solution when conflicts arise.

Flexibility

Flexibility is all about adapting to the situations and needs of the team. When working on group projects, unexpected issues will inevitably arise, so it’s essential to be able to adjust to the changing environment. Sharing an example of how you adapted to a sudden change in a project to achieve the desired outcome can showcase your flexibility effectively.

Collaboration

Collaboration is the ability to work with others toward a common goal. When working on group projects, everyone must work together to achieve the desired outcome. Highlighting your collaboration skills can show potential employers that you understand the importance of working together to achieve a common goal.

Leadership skills are essential for working in a team environment, even if you’re not in a management position. Setting an example for others by coordinating project tasks, motivating team members, and communicating with the team can all be used to showcase leadership skills on a resume.

Examples of How to Cultivate and Enhance These Particular Teamwork Skills

While you may already possess many of the essential teamwork skills, there’s always room for improvement.

How to Identify Your Teamwork Skills

Teamwork skills are crucial in nearly every job, and so it’s essential that job-seekers identify their teamwork strengths and weaknesses to effectively market themselves as a candidate.

Here are a few self-assessment tools that can help identify your teamwork skills:

Personality Tests

Several personality tests such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the DISC assessment can help you identify your team-oriented traits. These tests are designed to measure various aspects of your personality, including how you interact with others, your communication style, and your problem-solving approach. Analyzing your results can help you get a better understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, which can improve your teamwork skills.

Feedback from Others

Asking for feedback from colleagues, coworkers or supervisors can be a great way to get a sense of how you’re perceived in a team setting. Receiving constructive criticism can be tough, but it can provide valuable insights into the areas you need to work on to become a better team player.

Self-Reflection

Self-reflection is crucial when it comes to identifying your teamwork skills. It is easy to overlook your flaws or shortcomings when in a team. Therefore, it’s important to take some time and reflect on your performance in previous team projects. Consider what you did well or where you could have improved to adjust your skills accordingly.

Once you identify your skills, it’s essential to develop effective strategies to leverage them and integrate new skills. Here are some strategies:

Leverage Your Existing Teamwork Skills

• Collaboration:  Communicate and work with others to achieve common goals, both contributing to the success of the team.
• Active Listening:  Pay attention to others, help fill in gaps, and facilitate understanding.
• Adaptability:  Be open and willing to change in the face of new and unexpected situations or challenges.

Developing New Teamwork Skills

• Conflict Resolution:  Learn to manage conflicts or differences, avoid misunderstandings, and remain respectful.
• Effective Communication:  Communicate clearly, effectively, and transparently to help guide conversations and actions.
• Empathy:  Understand and relate to others’ perspectives, and respond appropriately.

Identifying and developing your teamwork skills can give you the edge you need to get ahead in your job search. By leveraging your existing skills and developing new ones, you’ll stand out to potential employers and be ready to tackle any project as part of a team.

Example of a Well-Written Resume’s Teamwork Section

Included below is an example of a well-written teamwork section in a resume. This sample showcases the candidate’s ability to work effectively with peers to accomplish organizational goals.

Sample Resume

Teamwork Section

• Collaborated with a team of ten project managers to plan and execute company-wide marketing initiatives, resulting in a 15% increase in revenue.
• Mentored four new hires in best practices for team communication and project management, resulting in a 60% decrease in project delays.
• Coordinated with cross-functional team members to develop and implement client-specific marketing plans, resulting in a 20% increase in client satisfaction.

Analysis and Explanation

The first bullet point in this section provides insight into the candidate’s ability to collaborate with a team. By working with ten project managers, the candidate was able to create and execute large-scale marketing initiatives that generated a 15% revenue increase. This accomplishment highlights the candidate’s ability to work with others to achieve common goals.

The second bullet point demonstrates the candidate’s dedication to teamwork through mentoring. By passing on best practices for team communication and project management, the candidate was able to improve the effectiveness of the team as a whole, resulting in fewer project delays.

Cross-Functional Coordination

The last bullet point in this section emphasizes the candidate’s ability to coordinate with members of other departments or teams to achieve shared objectives. By developing and implementing client-specific marketing plans with cross-functional team members, the candidate improved client satisfaction by 20%. This achievement highlights not only the candidate’s ability to collaborate within their own team but also their ability to work with and incorporate ideas and perspectives of others.

This example of a well-written resume’s teamwork section showcases the candidate’s ability to work collaboratively, mentor others, and coordinate with cross-functional team members to achieve overall organizational goals.

Teamwork Skills in Specific Careers

When it comes to teamwork skills, different industries and professions have varying requirements. In this section, we’ll discuss how to identify the most important teamwork skills for specific careers and industries, and how to tailor your resume accordingly.

Identifying Key Teamwork Skills for Different Professions

First and foremost, it’s important to research the teamwork skills that are most valued in your target industry or profession. For example, if you’re seeking a role in the hospitality industry, you’ll want to highlight your ability to work collaboratively with others to create positive guest experiences. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a job in IT, you’ll want to showcase your experience working on cross-functional teams to develop and implement software solutions.

In general, some of the most important teamwork skills that employers look for include:

Communication: This includes the ability to listen actively, express ideas clearly and concisely, and provide constructive feedback to others.

Collaboration: This skill involves the ability to work effectively with others towards a common goal, and to recognize and appreciate others’ contributions.

Leadership: Even in a team environment, leadership skills are highly valued, as they demonstrate a candidate’s ability to motivate and guide others towards success.

Problem-solving: The ability to work with others to identify and solve complex problems is a valuable teamwork skill in virtually any industry.

Tailoring Your Resume for Specific Industries and Job Roles

Once you’ve identified the key teamwork skills for your target industry or profession, it’s important to tailor your resume to highlight these skills. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Use industry-specific language: Every industry has its own terminology and jargon, so be sure to incorporate these into your resume where appropriate.

Highlight relevant experience: Focus on the teamwork experiences that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for, and be sure to quantify your contributions wherever possible (e.g. “Led a team of 10 sales associates to exceed quarterly revenue targets by 20%”).

Emphasize soft skills: While technical skills are important, many employers place a greater emphasis on soft skills like communication, collaboration, and leadership. Be sure to highlight examples of these skills throughout your resume.

Teamwork Skills and Cover Letter

As an experienced professional, you understand that a strong cover letter is essential to making a positive first impression with potential employers. If you’re looking to highlight your teamwork skills in your cover letter, there are a number of strategies you can use to make your abilities clear and compelling.

An In-Depth Look at Highlighting Teamwork Skills in a Cover Letter

When it comes to showcasing your teamwork skills in a cover letter, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to be sure to choose examples that demonstrate your ability to work effectively with others toward a common goal. You might talk about a time when you collaborated on a project, worked as part of a team to solve a problem, or helped to build a strong sense of camaraderie in your workplace.

Once you’ve identified your strongest examples, you’ll need to think carefully about how to present them to your reader. One effective strategy is to structure your cover letter around the “STAR” method, which stands for:

• Situation: Describe the context of the situation you’re discussing.
• Task: Explain the specific task that was involved.
• Action: Outline the actions you took to address the task.
• Result: Share the positive outcome that resulted from your teamwork contributions.

Another important consideration when writing your cover letter is your overall tone and writing style. You’ll want to come across as confident, articulate, and enthusiastic about your abilities, while also being professional and respectful throughout your letter.

Tips for Conveying Teamwork Abilities in a Cover Letter

If you’re looking to highlight your teamwork skills in a cover letter, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use concrete examples: Instead of simply stating that you have strong teamwork skills, use specific examples to bring your abilities to life. Be sure to provide clear details about the situation, task, action, and result, and explain how your contributions were essential to the team’s success.
• Choose your words carefully: Your choice of language can make a big difference when it comes to conveying your teamwork abilities. Use words that convey collaboration, communication, and a willingness to work toward a common goal.
• Consider the company culture: When writing your cover letter, be sure to take into account the company culture and workplace environment. If the company values teamwork and collaboration, emphasize these skills throughout your letter.
• Don’t forget the basics: While it’s important to highlight your teamwork skills, don’t forget to cover the basics of a strong cover letter, including a clear introduction, a strong summary of your qualifications, and a call to action that encourages the reader to take the next step.

By following these tips and guidance, you can make a compelling case for your teamwork abilities in your cover letter, and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

How to Build Teamwork Skills

Teamwork skills are essential for success in any workplace. Employers value employees who can collaborate effectively with others towards a shared goal. Here are some practical tips and strategies for developing your teamwork skills both in and out of the workplace:

1. Communicate openly and often

Effective communication is the cornerstone of good teamwork. It’s important to communicate openly and often with your team members to clarify goals, tasks, and expectations. Communication should be clear, concise, and respectful.

2. Encourage participation and brainstorming

A successful team is one where all members are engaged and contribute to the project. Encourage participation and brainstorming during meetings to generate fresh ideas and ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

3. Develop trust and respect

Trust and respect are essential components of a cohesive team. It’s important to build relationships with your team members and show support for their ideas and perspectives. This creates a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and acknowledged.

4. Embrace diversity

Teams are made up of individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Embrace this diversity and recognize the strengths that each team member brings to the table. This creates a well-rounded team with a range of skills and ideas.

5. Seek feedback

Feedback is an essential component of professional growth. Seek feedback from your supervisors, co-workers, and others to improve your teamwork skills. Ask for specific examples of how you can improve and take action on their suggestions.

6. Attend team-building activities

Participating in team-building activities can improve teamwork skills and foster a sense of camaraderie. Take advantage of opportunities for team-building activities both in and out of the workplace.

By implementing these practical tips and strategies, you can develop strong teamwork skills and become a valuable asset to any team. Use the advice on how to seek feedback to continually improve your skills and track your progress. Remember, teamwork skills are highly valued by employers and can enhance your resume and career prospects.

Benefits of Strong Teamwork Skills in a Resume

Great teamwork skills can be a valuable asset for any job-seeker. This is because teamwork encourages collaboration, communication, and effective problem-solving, which all contribute to the success of any organization. By highlighting your teamwork skills in your resume, you are showing potential employers that you are capable of working well with others to achieve common goals.

Benefits for Job-Seekers

When job-seekers emphasize their teamwork skills in their resumes, they are more likely to land a job that requires communication, collaborative work, and interpersonal skills. Employers are always on the lookout for candidates who can easily integrate into their work culture and hit the ground running with minimal supervision. A well-written resume that demonstrates a great teamwork ability can convince an employer that you are that candidate and that your skill set aligns with their organizational goals.

Having strong teamwork skills also helps job-seekers achieve a sense of fulfillment in their roles. With the support of their team members, they can tackle tough projects and deliver excellent results. Additionally, being part of a team allows them to grow professionally by learning from other team members’ experiences, knowledge, and skills.

Benefits for Employers

From an employer’s perspective, hiring candidates with strong teamwork skills can benefit the organization in many ways. First, teamwork fosters a positive work culture where employees are more motivated, productive, and engaged. By hiring individuals who can readily contribute to a team mentality, employers can reduce attrition rates, boost retention, and maintain a healthy work environment.

Furthermore, teamwork helps employers to achieve organizational goals more efficiently. Teams can break down complex projects into smaller, manageable tasks, which ensures that projects are completed on time and within budget. Also, working in teams encourages members to learn from one another, share ideas, and brainstorm solutions to problems.

Attracting employees with great teamwork skills can also help employers build a reputation as an employer of choice. Companies that prioritize teamwork stand out as preferred destinations for job-seekers who desire to work in a supportive work environment where they can collaborate and achieve more together.

Highlighting teamwork skills in a resume is beneficial to both job-seekers and employers. Job-seekers benefit by landing desirable jobs and gaining a sense of fulfillment in their roles, while employers achieve a positive work culture, increased productivity, and better retention rates. Therefore, it’s essential to assess your teamwork skills and include them on your resume to improve your chances of landing your dream job.

Common Teamwork Skills Mistakes to Avoid

When crafting a resume that highlights teamwork skills, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These mistakes can often result in the hiring manager being unable to fully understand your potential contributions to the team. Here are some mistakes to look out for:

1. Vague Language

It is important to be specific when discussing your teamwork skills. Rather than simply stating that you are a “team player”, provide concrete examples of times when you have demonstrated teamwork abilities. This will help the hiring manager to better understand the specific ways that you can contribute to the team.

2. Focusing on Individual Achievements

While it is important to showcase your personal accomplishments, it is equally important to highlight how you have worked with others to achieve these goals. Avoid making it seem like you have achieved everything on your own, and instead discuss how you have collaborated with teammates to reach shared goals.

3. Lack of Context

When highlighting specific teamwork skills, it is important to provide context for each example. Simply stating that you “worked well with others” does not provide the necessary information to understand how you were able to contribute to the team. Be sure to explain the circumstances and tasks involved in each example to provide a clearer picture of your teamwork abilities.

4. Overstating Your Role

While it is important to showcase your contributions to the team, be careful not to overstate your level of involvement. Providing inaccurate information about your role on a project or exaggerating your contributions can ultimately harm your chances of being hired. Be honest about your contributions and focus on how you were able to work effectively with others.

5. Not Tailoring Your Skills to the Job Description

When highlighting your teamwork skills, be sure to tailor your examples to the job you are applying for. Each job may require different types of teamwork abilities, so it is important to highlight the relevant skills for the position. Pay close attention to the job description and incorporate specific keywords and phrases in your examples as appropriate.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can showcase your teamwork skills effectively in your resume and increase your chances of landing the job. Remember to be specific, provide context, and tailor your examples to the job you are applying for. With these tips in mind, you can demonstrate that you are a valuable team player with a lot to offer.

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How do you describe teamwork on a resume?

Showcasing teamwork on a resume can without a doubt, elevate your resume and increase your chances of getting hired.

With a few exceptions, almost all kinds of job profiles and industries require teamwork.

If you are someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, your resume needs to showcase the same and justify it effectively.

However, simply listing teamwork under the skills section in your resume is not enough.

You must showcase your teamwork skills by describing experiences where you’ve used your collaborative skills to complete a task and achieve great results.

Read on to learn more about teamwork on resume and related FAQs like the following:

• What are teamwork skills and why are they important?
• What is a team player resume and when do you need one?
• How to put teamwork on a resume?
• What are some examples of teamwork resume bullets?
• What are some examples of teamwork skills?
• What are the 7 essential skills for teamwork?

Teamwork Skills and Its Importance

Team working skill is a type of soft skill that can be applied to any kind of work.

The ability to work well with others and collaborate effectively to achieve a common goal can be termed teamwork skills.

A candidate who has good teamwork skills puts the goal of the team over their personal interests and facilitates a collaborative workspace.

• Recruiters consider candidates with good teamwork skills an asset because they help foster innovation, better solutions, and higher productivity.

Here are some other reasons why employers value teamwork skills:

• Supports a healthy work environment
• Increases work efficiency
• Offers learning opportunities
• Increases accountability
• Facilitates the overall growth of the company

Also read: What are the most essential soft skills required to advance in your career?

What Is a Team Player Resume and When Do You Need One?

A team player resume is an approach to building a resume that highlights your teamwork skills.

This type of resume is generally built by candidates who want to apply for roles that require teamwork, leadership, and collaboration.

The best way to know whether or not you must focus on showcasing your teamwork skills on your resume is by analyzing the job description provided in the listing you're applying to.

If the job description prioritizes teamwork, you can highlight the same in your resume and increase your chances of getting shortlisted.

Also read: What are the top interpersonal skills you must have in 2022?

How to Talk About Teamwork on a Resume

To increase your chances of getting shortlisted for your desired roles, you need to effectively showcase your team working skills on your resume.

Given below are some tips to help you describe good teamwork on a resume:

Highlight Teamwork in Your Summary

As stated earlier, blatantly listing teamwork in your resume will not do you any good.

You need to rather subtly sprinkle instances that illustrate your teamwork skills on resume.

The first resume section where you can describe your team working skills is the summary section.

Doing so will help you grab the recruiters' attention immediately and provide an effective introduction.

Take a look at the following examples of teamwork skills that can be added to resume summaries:

• Adept at collaborating with cross-department teams to foster partnerships and devise product ideas.
• Proficient in organizing company events and activities by coordinating with staff members and vendors

Also read: How to write an impressive resume summary?

Provide Examples

Another great way to exemplify your teamwork skills on resume is through your professional experience.

• When listing the work that you did in your past roles, provide examples where you used your teamwork skills to achieve a goal.

You don’t necessarily have to use the word ‘teamwork’ in your sentences. You can rather begin your sentences with power verbs that are synonymous with teamwork.

Given below are some examples of teamwork resume bullets that you can use in the professional experience section:

• Provided technical oversight while working with a team of 6+ developers to conduct architecture and code reviews
• Coordinated with 5+ sales representatives to meet the weekly sales quota for the product department
• Communicated effectively with 10+ accountants to discuss resource allocation and delegate tasks among team members
• Communicated with stakeholders and translated their needs to technical requirements for providing effective solutions
• Communicated with project managers and brainstormed recommendations to increase efficiency by 43%
• Collaborated with a data engineering team of 5 to create 10+ useful plugins for improving user experience by 22%

Include Teamwork in Your Skills

And lastly, the simplest way to describe your ability to work well with others in your team player resume is by listing teamwork under the skills section.

Refer to the below-given table to see some teamwork skills examples:

Also read: How to list soft skills on a resume in 2022?

7 Essential Skills for Teamwork

Teamwork skill is not a standalone skill that can be acquired or honed independently.

Meaning that if you want to build teamwork skills to showcase the same on your resume, you must work on other skills that will support your collaborative ability.

Listed below are 7 essential skills that will support your team working skills:

Communication

Having good communication skills is extremely important if you want to be a team player.

The ability to convey information and express ideas clearly among team members is crucial for achieving set goals.

Conflict Resolution

When you are working in a team, minor misunderstandings and conflicts are bound to happen.

Thus, the ability to mediate conflicts and reduce workplace tension is important in building your teamwork skills.

Reliability

In a team, every member is allotted a set of tasks that support the bigger goal or the project.

And when one of the team members fails to do their part, it hampers the entire team.

Therefore, reliability and accountability are essential teamwork skills.

Organizational Skills

Organizational skills are vital for teamwork because, without a proper structure and order, it would be impossible for teams to reach a common goal within the stipulated time frame.

If you have good organizational skills, you can support your team by creating a work structure, planning, delegating tasks, and streamlining workflow.

Active Listening Skills

Possessing active listening skills is an essential part of being a good team player.

If you are not able to grasp important information or understand the allotted tasks with clarity, you can bring down the entire team.

Because to achieve a common goal as a team, every team member needs to understand the pit instructions clearly and cooperate as a unit.

Thus, the importance of active listening skills to build team working skills.

Also read: What skills to put on your resume in 2022?

Key Points from the Blog

• Showcase your teamwork skills by describing experiences where you’ve used your collaborative skills to complete a task and achieve great results.
• Highlight your team working skills in your resume summary to grab the recruiters' attention.
• Good communication, active listening skills, and reliability are essential to becoming a great team player.

Visit Hiration’s Career Activator Platform with 24X7 chat support to get expert guidance on your career-related queries and write to us at [email protected] .

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Best Teamwork Skills for Resume

In today’s highly competitive job market, it’s more important than ever to stand out from the crowd when applying for a job. One effective way to do so is by highlighting your teamwork skills on your resume.

Working as a team player is highly valued by employers, as this skill demonstrates your ability to collaborate, communicate, and work effectively with others to achieve common goals.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best teamwork skills to include on your resume, and provide tips on how to showcase them effectively to potential employers. Whether you’re a new graduate looking for your first working opportunity or an experienced professional seeking a new opportunity, mastering these teamwork skills can help set you apart and land your dream job.

Table of Contents

What Are Teamwork Skills?

Teamwork skills refer to the abilities and qualities that enable individuals to work effectively and collaboratively with others towards a common goal.

These skills are highly valued in the workplace, as they allow individuals to be productive and successful as part of a team. Some of the key teamwork skills include effective communication, active listening, cooperation, adaptability, problem-solving, and leadership.

Effective communication involves being able to clearly and concisely convey information to others, while active listening involves being attentive and responsive to the ideas and opinions of others. Cooperation involves working together towards a shared goal, while adaptability requires the ability to adjust and be flexible in response to changing circumstances.

Problem-solving skills are critical for identifying and resolving issues that may arise during a project, and leadership skills involve the ability to motivate and guide others towards success. By mastering these teamwork skills, individuals can work effectively with others and achieve success as part of a team.

Top 10 Teamwork Skills for Resumes + Examples

Communication.

Effective teamwork requires the ability to express your thoughts clearly and understand others’ perspectives, irrespective of the mode of communication, be it in person, through writing, instant messaging, or phone calls. It’s crucial to have open and honest communication that is built on trust to foster a culture of mutual respect within teams. Besides, nonverbal cues are equally important in conveying messages effectively. Creating a safe and inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to share their opinions and ideas is a hallmark of a great team.

Learn more: Top Communication Skills for Resume

Here’s an example of how to describe communication on a resume:

“Proficient in fostering open and honest communication within teams, promoting a culture of mutual trust and respect.”

Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution is an essential teamwork skill that involves the ability to effectively manage and resolve conflicts that may arise between team members. According to Gitnux , the average American employee spends about two hours per every week resolving workplace conflicts.

Effective conflict resolution involves identifying the root cause of the conflict and finding a mutually beneficial solution that satisfies the needs of all team members. By mastering conflict resolution skills, individuals can help create a positive work environment that fosters collaboration, trust, and productivity within the team.

Here’s an example of how to describe conflict resolution on a resume:

“Comfortable with using effective communication and negotiation skills to de-escalate conflicts and find mutually beneficial solutions.”

Reliability

Reliability is a critical teamwork skill in the workplace. This skill involves consistently fulfilling commitments and meeting deadlines, which is essential for building trust and establishing a reputation for dependability within a team. Being reliable means taking responsibility for your work, following through on your promises, and being accountable for your contributions to the team.

By demonstrating reliability, individuals can gain the respect and trust of their teammates, which is essential for building strong and successful teams. Additionally, reliable team members help ensure that projects are completed on time and to a high standard , which is crucial for achieving the team’s goals and objectives.

Here’s an example of how to describe reliability on a resume:

“Skilled in consistently meeting deadlines, following through on commitments, and taking ownership of work.”

Adaptability

Adaptability is an important teamwork skill that involves the ability to be flexible and adjust to changing circumstances or new information. In today’s fast-paced business environment, adaptability is essential for teams to remain competitive and responsive to changing market conditions. Adaptable team members are quick to learn and apply new skills, are open to feedback and suggestions, and can work effectively with team members with diverse backgrounds and working styles.

By being adaptable, team members can pivot and adjust their strategies as needed, allowing the team to achieve its goals and overcome obstacles. Adaptability is particularly important when working on complex projects or when new challenges arise , as it allows teams to find creative solutions and work collaboratively to achieve success.

Here’s an example of how to describe adaptability on a resume:

“Proficient in pivoting quickly when new information or obstacles arise, and identifying creative solutions to overcome challenges.”

Trustworthiness

Trustworthiness is an essential teamwork skill that involves building and maintaining trust with team members. Trust is the foundation of effective teamwork, and team members who are viewed as trustworthy are often more respected, valued, and included within the team. Trustworthy team members are reliable, honest, and consistent in their actions and decision-making, which fosters an environment of mutual respect and accountability.

Building trust requires being transparent and open in communication, admitting mistakes and taking responsibility for them, and following through on commitments. By being viewed as trustworthy, team members can help create a positive work environment where ideas can be shared freely , conflicts can be resolved quickly, and team members can work together collaboratively towards shared goals.

Here’s an example of how to demonstrate trustworthiness on a resume:

“Demonstrated reliability and dependability by meeting deadlines, following through on commitments, and taking ownership of work.”

Accountability

Accountability is a crucial teamwork skill that involves taking responsibility for one’s actions and contributions to the team’s success. Accountable team members own up to their mistakes and take steps to rectify them, rather than placing blame or making excuses. Being accountable also means being transparent and honest in communication, providing regular updates and progress reports, and following through on commitments to ensure that deadlines are met and projects are completed successfully.

By being accountable, team members demonstrate their commitment to the team’s success, earn the trust and respect of their colleagues, and contribute to a positive and productive work environment. Additionally, accountable team members can help identify and address issues or obstacles that may be impeding the team’s progress, working collaboratively to find solutions and overcome challenges.

Here’s how to demonstrate accountability on a resume:

“Maintained transparency and regular communication with project stakeholders to provide progress updates, resolve issues, and manage expectations.”

Decision-making

Decision-making is an essential teamwork skill that involves the ability to make effective decisions collaboratively with team members. Effective decision-making requires a combination of analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Team members must be able to assess a situation, gather relevant information, weigh options, and arrive at a decision that is aligned with the team’s goals and objectives. In a collaborative decision-making process, team members must be willing to listen to and consider the perspectives of others, share ideas and insights, and work together to find the best solution.

By mastering decision-making skills, team members can contribute to a positive and productive work environment, where ideas are shared and innovative solutions are developed. Additionally, effective decision-making can help teams achieve their goals and objectives in a timely and efficient manner.

Here’s an example of how to describe decision-making on a resume:

“Comfortable with taking calculated risks and adapting to changing circumstances to achieve project objectives.”

Organization and Planning

Organizational and planning skills are essential teamwork skills in the workplace. These skills involve the ability to effectively manage time, resources, and priorities to ensure that team goals are met in a timely and efficient manner. Organizational skills involve developing and maintaining systems and processes to manage workflow, resources, and data effectively.

Planning skills involve setting goals and objectives, defining tasks and timelines, and anticipating and mitigating risks and obstacles. Effective organizational and planning skills require collaboration and communication with team members to ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals. By mastering these skills, team members can contribute to a positive and productive work environment, where projects are completed on time and to a high standard.

Here’s an example of how to describe organization and planning on a resume:

“Skilled in managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously, and effectively delegating tasks to team members to ensure that deadlines are met.”

Willingness to Learn

Willingness to learn is an important teamwork skill to include on a resume because it demonstrates an eagerness to grow, adapt, and improve in order to contribute to the team’s success. When you’re willing to learn from your team members, you’re able to take advantage of their expertise and experience, and you can apply what you’ve learned to your own work.

Additionally, when you’re open to feedback and willing to learn from your mistakes, you can improve your performance and help the team achieve its objectives more effectively. Employers value employees who are willing to learn because it shows that they are committed to their professional development and to contributing to the team’s success over the long term.

Here’s an example of how to describe a willingness to learn on a resume:

“Willing to take on additional responsibilities and tasks to broaden my experience and further develop my skills.”

Tolerance is an important teamwork skill that involves being accepting and respectful of the opinions, beliefs, and working styles of others. In a diverse and inclusive workplace, team members must be able to work effectively with individuals from different backgrounds and with different perspectives. Tolerance involves being open-minded, non-judgmental, and willing to listen to and consider the ideas and opinions of others. By demonstrating tolerance, team members can create a positive and inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and included.

Additionally, tolerant team members can help bridge differences and find common ground, fostering collaboration and cooperation within the team. By mastering this skill, team members can help promote a positive and productive work environment, where everyone can contribute to the team’s success.

Here’s an example of how to describe tolerance on a resume:

“Demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with team members, clients, and stakeholders from a range of cultures and backgrounds.”

Here Are 20 More Teamwork Skills You Can Add to Your Resume:

• Respectfulness
• Negotiation
• Team assessment
• Goal-setting
• Coaching and mentoring
• Flexibility
• Positive attitude
• Interpersonal skills
• Time management
• Active listening
• Perseverance
• Self-awareness
• Strategic thinking
• Cultural competency
• Resourcefulness
• Team decision-making

What Are Team Building Skills?

Team building skills are the abilities and strategies used to foster collaboration, communication, and mutual respect among team members, and to help build a cohesive and productive team. These skills involve identifying and leveraging the unique strengths and skills of each team member, promoting open and honest communication, and developing strategies to address and resolve conflicts or challenges that arise within the team.

Effective team building skills also involve establishing clear goals and objectives, defining roles and responsibilities, and encouraging a culture of mutual trust and accountability. Team building skills are essential for creating a positive and productive work environment, where team members can work effectively together to achieve shared goals and objectives.

How to Describe Teamwork Skills on a Resume

Here are some best practices for including teamwork skills on your resume:

Mention Teamwork Abilities in Your Resume Summary/Objective

When including your teamwork skills in your resume summary or objective, it’s best to follow these guidelines:

Be specific: Instead of just saying you have good teamwork skills, provide specific examples of times when you worked effectively as part of a team. This could include projects you worked on, roles you played, and outcomes you achieved.

Use action-oriented language: Use active verbs to describe your teamwork abilities, such as “collaborated,” “contributed,” and “facilitated.” This shows that you were an active participant in the team, and not just a passive observer.

Highlight results: Whenever possible, mention specific results you achieved through teamwork. For example, if you worked on a project with a team and it resulted in a successful outcome, mention this in your summary or objective.

Tailor to the job description: Look at the job description and see if teamwork is mentioned as a desired skill. If so, tailor your summary or objective to highlight your teamwork abilities and how they relate to the position.

Keep it concise: Remember that your summary or objective should be brief and to the point. Focus on the most important teamwork abilities you possess and how they make you a strong candidate for the job.

Elaborate on Your Specific Role Within the Team

Elaborating on your specific role within the team is a great way to showcase your teamwork skills on your resume. Here are some tips on how to do this effectively:

Describe your role in detail: When highlighting your role within a team, it’s important to provide specific details. This could include your title, the tasks you were responsible for, and the skills you utilized to complete those tasks. For example, if you were part of a team that created a new marketing campaign, describe your role in developing the campaign, such as conducting market research, designing promotional materials, or managing social media outreach.

Highlight your contributions: Focus on your individual contributions to the team’s success. This could include any unique skills or strengths that you brought to the team, or any challenges you overcame. Be sure to include any specific achievements or outcomes that you helped achieve.

Emphasize your communication skills : Communication is a key aspect of teamwork. Highlight how you communicated with team members, such as through regular meetings, email updates, or other methods. Also, describe how you listened to and incorporated feedback from other team members.

Provide Specific Examples

When describing teamwork skills on a resume, it’s important to provide specific examples to demonstrate your abilities. Instead of simply stating that you are a “good team player,” try to include examples of times when you collaborated effectively with others to achieve a common goal. For instance, you might mention a project that you worked on as part of a team , and describe the specific tasks you were responsible for and how you worked with others to complete the project successfully . You could also highlight any specific skills or techniques you used to communicate and collaborate effectively with your teammates. By providing concrete examples of your teamwork skills, you can help potential employers better understand your abilities and how you might contribute to their team.

Add a Skill Section to Your Resume

Including a skill section in your resume to describe teamwork skills is a good idea because it allows you to highlight your ability to work effectively with others, which is a highly valued trait in many industries. By clearly outlining your teamwork skills, you can make it easier for potential employers to see how you might fit into their organization and contribute to their team.

Additionally, a skill section can help showcase your strengths and qualifications in a clear and concise manner, making it easier for hiring managers to quickly identify your relevant experience and skills. Overall, including a dedicated section for your teamwork skills can help your resume stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Use Team Player Phrases

Using team player phrases on your resume can help emphasize your collaborative and cooperative work style, which is highly sought after by many employers. For instance, you might include phrases such as “Collaborated with a cross-functional team to achieve project goals,” “Contributed to group brainstorming sessions to develop innovative ideas,” or “Supported team members to ensure project timelines and deliverables were met.” These types of phrases demonstrate your ability to work effectively with others, communicate and share ideas, and take an active role in achieving common goals. By highlighting your teamwork skills in this way, you can help potential employers see that you are a valuable team player who can contribute to their organization in a positive way.

Examples of Team Player Phrases for Resume

• “Worked collaboratively with a diverse team to develop and implement new company-wide initiatives.”
• “Supported team members to achieve project deliverables and ensure timely completion of tasks.”
• “Facilitated productive discussions and provided constructive feedback to enhance team performance.”
• “Fostered a positive team environment by encouraging open communication and active participation.”
• “Participated in cross-functional teams to identify and resolve operational issues, resulting in increased efficiency and cost savings.”
• “Coordinated with team members to develop and execute successful marketing campaigns that increased sales revenue by 20%.”
• “Worked closely with colleagues to create and deliver engaging training programs that improved overall employee performance and satisfaction.”
• “Acted as a reliable resource and mentor for team members, providing guidance and support as needed.”
• “Collaborated with management and team members to implement and maintain quality control measures, resulting in improved product quality and customer satisfaction.”
• “Contributed to a positive team dynamic by promoting inclusivity, respect, and teamwork to achieve common goals.”

Resume Example That Showcases Teamwork Skills

Samantha Lee 123 Main Street | Anytown, USA | (555) 555-5555 | [email protected] Objective: To secure a position where I can leverage my teamwork skills to contribute to the success of the organization. Education: Bachelor of Science in Marketing, ABC University Skills: Collaboration Communication Active listening Leadership Adaptability Conflict resolution Problem-solving Planning and organizing Delegation Marketing Manager, XYZ Company, 2021- Present Led a cross-functional team of designers, developers, and copywriters to develop and launch a successful marketing campaign that generated $1 million in revenue Collaborated with the sales team to identify and target new markets, resulting in a 20% increase in leads Facilitated productive discussions and provided constructive feedback to enhance team performance Supported team members to achieve project deliverables and ensure timely completion of tasks Coordinated with team members to create and deliver engaging presentations to stakeholders Acted as a mentor for team members, providing guidance and support as needed. Marketing Coordinator, DEF Corporation, 2018-2022 Collaborated with the marketing team to develop and implement digital and print marketing campaigns Coordinated with the design team to develop visually appealing marketing collateral Supported the team in creating and delivering presentations to internal and external stakeholders Assisted with event planning and execution, resulting in successful events and increased brand awareness Acted as a reliable resource for team members, providing assistance and support as needed

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What Are Teamwork Skills?

Teamwork skills examples: what employers are looking for.

• How to Include Teamwork Skills for Your Resume: Dos and Don'ts

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Teamwork skills for your resume.

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Forage puts students first. Our blog articles are written independently by our editorial team. They have not been paid for or sponsored by our partners. See our full  editorial guidelines .

Table of Contents

Teamwork skills are the soft skills you use to work efficiently and effectively with others. Even if you’ve never had a professional coworker before, chances are you use teamwork skills in the classroom, while volunteering, and during your extracurricular activities (including, not surprisingly, if you’re on a sports team). Here’s the inside scoop on what types of teamwork skills employers are looking for in 2024 and how you can include these teamwork skills on your resume .

Teamwork skills are skills we use to work well with other people. In the workplace, that can mean everything from brainstorming a new idea with a coworker to helping your team decide on a strategy for how you’ll reach your monthly goals. 

“Effective teamwork isn’t just about doing your part well,” Jennifer Fishberg, certified professional resume writer, says. “Really good collaborators are also skilled at supporting other team members in a way that elevates the entire group’s performance.”

Teamwork skills examples for entry-level workers include:

• Doing part of a project multiple team members are working on and checking in to share status updates
• Providing feedback on a coworker’s idea in a team meeting
• Learning about a coworker’s different daily tasks so you can perform those tasks when they’re out of the office
• Handling team disagreements with open and respectful communication 
• Helping plan a cross-functional project, including setting goals, timelines, and task ownership
• Celebrating a coworker’s accomplishments when they’ve done something well

These skills don’t just make you a better coworker — they also make you a more successful employee.

“Teamwork skills are imperative in the workplace because they provide many benefits, including a sense of cohesiveness, increased productivity, and an overall more positive employee well-being,” says Michele Waters, SHRM-CP and director of people for MD Energy Advisors. “This is important for entry-level candidates, especially as they are newer to the workforce. These foundational skills learned can continue to serve them throughout their career.”

>>MORE: Discover the right career for you based on your skills with a career aptitude test .

Employers look for teamwork skills on resumes because they’re fundamental to a thriving business.

“Teamwork skills impact innovation, productivity, and morale, which in turn impacts the company’s bottom line,” says Arissan Nicole, resume and career coach and founder of Authentic Empowerment LLC. “Teamwork is more than coworkers liking each other; it’s the gel that keeps things running smoothly even when things get chaotic.”

So, what kinds of skills are employers looking for? Here are some teamwork skills examples.

Collaboration

Collaboration skills are also skills you use to work well with others. What’s the difference? Collaboration happens when you work on a specific task, project, or goal, while teamwork is more about the big picture. 

“Employers are actively looking for candidates who can contribute to a team’s goals, share responsibilities, and respect diverse perspectives,” says Jaime Nacach, founder and CEO of Virtual Latinos, a recruitment agency for Latin American professionals.

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Remote Collaboration

Collaboration skills often aren’t enough to succeed in today’s work environment. When you have a hybrid or remote job , you’ll also need the skills to collaborate with people who aren’t in the office with you — sometimes people in different time zones and countries, and some you might never interact with in person. 

>>MORE: 10 Top Remote Jobs for College Students

“In today’s world of distributed and remote workforces, candidates must have experience with or an understanding of asynchronous work,” says William Sipling, SHRM-PMQ, DASM, director of workforce transformation and chief brand storyteller at Hubstaff. “If another team member is on the other side of the world with an eight-hour time difference, the candidate must have the foresight to build in extra lead time. They’ll also need to be savvy to communicate via written messages because setting up synchronous virtual meetings at convenient times may be more challenging.”

How can you demonstrate these remote collaboration teamwork skills on your resume? 

“Don’t overlook really practical things that facilitate good teamwork, like skill with collaborative technology platforms,” Fishberg says.

Communication

You can’t work with others without talking to them. You’ll use verbal communication skills when talking to someone in person, on Zoom, or the phone, and writing skills to communicate with people over a message or email. 

“Employers value candidates who can effectively communicate by expressing their ideas clearly and actively listening to others,” Nacach says. “Furthermore, strong communicators are often better equipped to solve problems. They can gather relevant information and share insights with others to find solutions. This skill is invaluable in both routine tasks and when tackling complex challenges.”

You don’t need to be an official leader to have leadership skills . Being a leader in the workplace is about influence, support, and autonomy. While it’s OK to ask for help, employers want to hire proactive employees who try to solve problems independently first.

“Employers want to see that you are a self-starter,” Nicole says. “As an entry-level candidate, employers are looking at your soft skills more than your hard skills and want to know if you are someone who can not only take direction but keep things moving without being asked. They are looking for people who can be flexible and get along with different personalities. Are you going to be someone they will have to watch closely and feel like they’re babysitting, or will you be a team contributor ready to hit the ground running?”

Adaptability

“Employers seek candidates who can adjust to changing circumstances, take on new responsibilities, and learn from their experiences,” Nacach says.

Even though this seems like an individual skill, adaptability is essential on a team level as your team and company undergo inevitable changes. Flexibility — when a coworker leaves, strategies change, or goals aren’t met — is crucial to success in the workplace over time.

How to Include Teamwork Skills for Your Resume: Dos and Don’ts

Employers are looking for teamwork skills from entry-level candidates, so adding them to your resume is crucial. Here’s how to do it well.

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Don’t Just Write ‘Teamwork Skills’

“Describing yourself as a ‘team player’ on your resume is meaningless unless you offer proof,” Fishberg says. 

Instead of just writing “team player” or listing “teamwork skills” on your resume, show the employer how you’ve used these skills in your experience section. Use action verbs to describe how you achieved results with others:

• Collaborated
• Communicated
• Facilitated

Do Focus on Results

“Results are always more powerful than adjectives,” Fishberg says. “In addition to meaningful details about deadlines met and results produced, look to incorporate examples that show you were able to bring together diverse perspectives or overcome team differences to create a whole greater than the sum of its parts.”

Try to quantify your impact whenever possible. Maybe you used teamwork skills to submit a group project a week before the deadline. Perhaps you and your friend made a TikTok page that got 2,000 followers in a month. Or, maybe you helped a local charity raise 20% more money the month you volunteered with them? Even if your experience isn’t in a STEM field, you can still prove your results with concrete numbers.

Don’t Overlook Non-Professional Experience

You can have teamwork skills even if you’ve never had an official coworker.

“Most entry-level applicants have practical experience and knowledge, even if these hard-earned skills didn’t come from W2 employment,” Sipling says. “These candidates should extrapolate from other life experiences — high school leadership opportunities, undergraduate coursework, or community service — and apply their learnings to their resumes. 

For example, a student who finished their degree online during COVID lockdowns should mention that they have ‘asynchronous collaborative teamwork skills’ since they would have worked on group projects over learning management systems like Canvas or Blackboard.”

>>MORE: How to Write a Resume With No Work Experience

Jennifer Preston, HR and recruiting consultant at Flex HR, encourages students to look closer at their non-professional experience to pick out critical transferable skills they’ve gained from working on other teams. Even a summer job that might not seem relevant to the position you’re applying to can be positioned the right way.

For example, let’s say you were a lifeguard at a local pool over the summer.

“A lifeguard has had to work with their colleagues to ensure shifts are covered, communicate their scheduling conflicts with their superiors and others, and ensure that they communicate effectively when issues arise,” Preston says. “This individual has now gained various solid skills, including leadership, communication, and flexibility working with others. 

Do Tie Your Skills to the Position and Company

Look closely at the job description and company to better understand how you’d use your teamwork skills if you got the role. Then, position your experience to show that you can be the team player they’re looking for.

For example, let’s say you’re applying for a project management role. Project managers need to be able to communicate across multiple departments, teams, and roles. Even if you don’t have professional project management experience, you could share examples of when you used teamwork skills to collaborate with many different people and balanced multiple lines of communication to get the job done.

“Everything needs to tell a story, relate back to a skill the job application is looking for, and have an accomplishment or achievement tied to it,” Nicole says. “Tell the company exactly why and how you can excel in the role and at their company. This is one of the most important parts of an entry-level resume, so be thoughtful in how you curate it for each application.”

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Discover The Power of Teamwork Skills [+ Tips & How to List on Resume]

You might have this question in your mind: is teamwork a skill? In a world where collaboration and cooperation are the cornerstones of success, possessing teamwork skills is a game-changer. Whether you're striving for career advancement or simply seeking to enrich your personal relationships, the ability to work effectively with others is invaluable. Acing teamwork skills would also enable you to elevate your resume by showcasing examples in your practice. In this article, we'll explore the multifaceted world of teamwork skills, delving into what they are and why teamwork skill is important in the job market. Here's a glimpse of what we'll cover:

Table of Contents:

Understanding Teamwork Skills

Elements of effective teamwork skills, tips to improve teamwork skills, showcasing your teamwork skills: a winning resume strategy.

The teamwork skills definition is the mix of skills that an employee uses to contribute to the group, and skills used to make the most out of everyone’s contributions. Why teamwork is an essential skill in business? Teamwork skills are the foundation of successful collaboration, not only in the workplace but in virtually every aspect of life. Therefore, teamwork skills encompass a range of attributes and behaviors that enable individuals to work effectively and harmoniously with others to achieve shared goals. 

Is teamwork a soft skill? Yes, teamwork is considered a soft skill. Soft skills are personal attributes, interpersonal abilities, and qualities that enable individuals to work effectively with others. Teamwork skills involve the capacity to collaborate, communicate, and cooperate with fellow team members to achieve common goals. Teamwork skills are key soft skills that are highly valued in the workplace and are essential for successful collaboration and productivity in a team-based environment.

In the context of teamwork, a cohesive team is often more than the sum of its individual parts. It's the synergy, where collaboration, trust, and shared objectives blend seamlessly, that makes the whole greater and more potent than the sum of its components. Let’s take a look into what makes successful teamwork and its importance:

What Makes Successful Teamwork

1. Communication Effective communication is the backbone of successful teamwork. It involves not only expressing your ideas clearly but also actively listening to your team members. When team members communicate openly and honestly, ideas flow, and problems are solved more efficiently.

2. Trust Trust is the foundation upon which all successful teamwork is built. Trust in your team members' abilities, reliability, and intentions is crucial. When trust is present, individuals are more willing to take risks, share their ideas, and collaborate with confidence.

3. Shared Goals Teamwork thrives when everyone is aligned with common goals and objectives. Team members need to understand and commit to the shared mission, ensuring that their efforts are directed toward a unified purpose.

Importance of Effective Teamwork

Effective teamwork is indispensable when it comes to achieving common goals and objectives. Teamwork skills allow a group of individuals to leverage their unique strengths and perspectives to address complex challenges and reach outcomes that may be unattainable for individuals working in isolation. Here are a few reasons why teamwork skills are vital:

1. Enhanced Productivity When team members collaborate efficiently, tasks are completed more quickly and effectively. Each member's strengths can be harnessed, and work is distributed evenly, resulting in higher overall productivity.

2. Stimulated Creativity Teamwork fosters an environment where diverse ideas and perspectives are encouraged. This diversity often leads to creative problem-solving and innovative solutions, making teams more adaptable and resilient.

3. Shared Responsibility A well-functioning team shares the responsibility for success and failure. This shared accountability encourages team members to perform at their best and promotes a collective sense of achievement.

In the realm of teamwork skills, there are several key elements that contribute to successful collaboration. Each element plays a unique role in fostering a harmonious and productive team. In this section, we will delve into these elements of teamwork skills, including clear and open communication, active listening, building trust, and resolving conflicts, as well as defining roles and responsibilities within a team.

Communication and Active Listening

Clear and Open Communication

Effective communication within a team is the cornerstone of successful collaboration. When team members communicate openly and clearly, it reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings and enhances the overall efficiency of the team. To improve communication skills within a team, consider these tips:

• Clearly express your thoughts and ideas.
• Encourage team members to share their perspectives.
• Use active language that fosters engagement and understanding.

Active Listening

Active listening is equally essential. It involves not just hearing, but fully understanding what others are saying. To promote active listening within your team, follow these techniques:

• Give your full attention to the speaker.
• Reflect on what you've heard before responding.
• Ask clarifying questions to ensure you've understood correctly.

Building Trust and Resolving Conflict

Trust and Mutual Respect

Trust is the foundation of a strong team. When team members trust each other, they work together more effectively, and collaboration thrives. To build trust among team members, consider the following strategies:

• Be reliable and dependable in your tasks.
• Be open and honest in your communication.
• Show respect for your team members' opinions and contributions.

Conflict Resolution

Conflict can arise in any team, but how it's addressed makes all the difference. Recognize the common sources of conflict, which may include differences in opinion, misunderstanding, or competing goals. Here are some conflict resolution techniques and best practices:

• Encourage open discussions to address conflicts.
• Seek compromise and win-win solutions.
• Focus on the issue, not the individual, when resolving conflicts.

📚Further reading:  Do’s and Don’ts When Dealing with Difficult Co-Workers

Roles and Responsibilities in a Team

Understanding Team Roles

In every team, members play distinct roles that contribute to the group's success. Roles may include leaders, facilitators, contributors, and more. Youth Employment UK mentioned that by understanding which type of team player you are, you could maximize your strengths in teamwork and contribute to the success of the team.

Delegation and Accountability

Effective delegation and accountability are essential for balancing responsibilities within a team. To foster a sense of accountability, consider the following tips:

• Clearly define roles and responsibilities.
• Delegate tasks based on team members' strengths.
• Set expectations for performance and deadlines.

Check out this compilation of teamwork skills to elevate your game:

Overcoming Challenges Faced by Virtual and Remote Teams

Managing a virtual or remote team successfully requires a strategic approach in applying suitable teamwork skills. First and foremost, establish clear communication channels, set goals and expectations, and utilize collaboration tools to streamline work. Regular check-ins, open communication, and trust-building activities are vital to maintaining a sense of connection among team members. Encourage flexible working hours, provide training, and respect individual work styles , recognizing that diverse time zones and preferences may exist. Teamwork skills serve as a strong backbone to support the success of the company whilst enabling employees to work remotely .

How to improve teamwork and collaboration skills is a journey that can lead to enhanced collaboration, better job prospects, and personal growth . Here are some key tips to help you strengthen your teamwork skills, along with action items for each point:

Tip 1: Familiarize Yourself with Collaboration Tools and Software

In a digital age, efficient communication and collaboration tools are crucial for remote and in-person teams. They streamline communication, centralize project information, and facilitate real-time collaboration.

Action Items:

• Learn to use tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, Trello, or Asana to manage tasks and streamline communication.
• Familiarize yourself with video conferencing software like Zoom or Microsoft Teams for virtual meetings.
• Explore cloud-based document sharing and editing tools, such as Google Workspace or Microsoft Office 365 .

Tip 2: Time Management and Task Prioritization

Effective time management ensures that you meet deadlines, support your team, and avoid procrastination. It enhances your productivity and allows you to contribute efficiently to group projects.

• Utilize time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to enhance focus and productivity.
• Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance to meet deadlines efficiently.
• Create a detailed schedule, making use of digital calendars or digital planners to manage your daily tasks effectively.

Tip 3: Taking Ownership of Tasks and Responsibilities

Taking ownership of your tasks and responsibilities is essential for teamwork. It demonstrates reliability and ensures that team goals are met.

• Clearly define your tasks and responsibilities within the team.
• Set clear, achievable goals for your assigned tasks and work diligently to meet them.
• Communicate proactively with your team members and seek support when needed.

Tip 4: Knowing When to Lead and When to Follow

Effective teamwork skill often involves knowing when to take the lead and when to support others. This flexibility ensures that team dynamics remain balanced and productive.

• Recognize situations that require your leadership and take initiative.
• Be a supportive team player when someone else is better suited to lead a specific task or project.
• Encourage open communication and collaboration to make collective decisions.

Tip 5: Regular Check-Ins and Progress Discussions

Regular check-ins ensure that everyone is on the same page, provide a platform to discuss progress, and address any challenges that may arise.

• Schedule periodic team meetings to discuss project updates and address any issues.
• Encourage team members to share their progress and ask for assistance or clarification when needed.
• Create a collaborative atmosphere where feedback and ideas are openly exchanged.

Tip 6: Thoughtful Decision-Making

Making decisions thoughtfully is essential for maintaining team cohesion. It ensures that the impact on the team is considered, and various viewpoints are taken into account.

• Encourage open discussions and debates before making important decisions.
• Consider the long-term effects of decisions on the team's goals and objectives.
• Seek consensus when possible, but be prepared to make a final decision when needed.

After learning about the importance of teamwork skills, and how to improve them yourselves, you would want to take a look into how to list an additional skill of teamwork in your resume. One of 3 ways to do so is by incorporating teamwork skills into your resume summary or objective statement . This method would enable you to catch the attention of the hiring managers when you are introducing yourself. An example would be as below:

Product Manager with a passion for working with others seeking a position at StarTech Company.

You could also incorporate teamwork skills into the work experience section , or create an independent teamwork skills category under the skills section. Check out how to do it seamlessly with useful tips available for you in this article ! Your career and personal growth will thank you for it!

In conclusion, the importance of teamwork skills cannot be overstated. From effective communication and trust-building to collaboration and problem-solving, these teamwork skills are the linchpin of productive and successful collaborations. By developing and honing these abilities, individuals not only enhance their career prospects but also enrich their personal relationships and interactions. As you've learned throughout this article, teamwork skills are the catalyst for driving innovation, boosting productivity, and ensuring harmonious work environments. So, let this be your call to action: practice and apply these skills in your personal and professional life. Embrace the opportunities to become an exceptional team player and watch as your collaborative endeavors thrive, bringing you success and personal fulfillment. Your journey toward becoming a true teamwork champion begins now.

With Cake, a free resume builder , we provide you with hundreds of free resume templates download and various resume examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!

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--- Originally written by Wendy Chang ---

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How to Show Teamwork Skills on Your Resume

Teamwork is a vital skill that employers consistently seek in candidates. Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” emphasizing the power of collaboration. In many job settings, you’re expected to communicate, support, and empathize with your co-workers. 

In fact, teamwork often ranks high on lists of top skills employers desire. Recognizing this, companies are increasingly adopting group interviews to gauge a candidate’s collaborative abilities. 

But before you even step into an interview, it’s crucial to highlight your teamwork skills on your resume. This post will guide you on how to effectively list and exemplify your teamwork skills. 

We’ll provide resume examples to demonstrate how you can showcase these skills in the different resume sections. Dive in to learn how to make your resume stand out with teamwork skills and leverage our free online resume builder for the best results.

This ResumeGiants article includes:

What are Teamwork Skills?

So, if you list “Teamwork Skills” on your resume you’re all set, right?

Well, it’s not that simple. Teamwork skills are essentially a collection of individual skills that, taken together, reflect your ability to work well with others.

Can you easily resolve conflict? Are you friendly and easy to get along with? Do you have the ability to clearly and effectively convey your ideas orally and through the written word ? Are you respectful and reliable? Have you solved problems in your past positions?

All of these would be indicative of good teamwork skills in the workplace.

Essential Teamwork Skills in the Workplace

While many skills come together to form one’s ability to work in teams, there are a few that stand out as absolutely essential.

Some of the most important skills for teamwork include:

• Communication : you must be able to converse with others, both orally and via email, text, and other written communication forms.
• Collaboration : while you might think this one is a given, it’s imperative that you can truly demonstrate collaborative skills to be a top team player. This means sharing ideas, understanding others’ perspectives, possessing a willingness to accept others’ contributions, and even choosing other ideas over your own.
• Listening : it’s not simply acknowledging what someone else is saying. Strong listening skills allow you to not only hear but see and consider other sides of an issue.
• Time management : for effective time management skills, you must not only have strong organizational skills but the ability to multitask, delegate work, prioritize, plan, and set goals not only for yourself but for others.  
• Problem solving : it often takes different perspectives to arrive at a solution, so true problem-solving skills involve using those around you to closely look at an issue and arrive at the best possible answer.

Our resume templates and online resume builder can show you how to best incorporate your skills for teamwork on your resume!

Examples of How to Include Teamwork Skills on Your Resume

Some good teamwork skills examples that you might list on your resume include:

• Communication
• Collaborative
• Decision-making
• Organizational
• Project management
• Virtual collaboration tools proficiency (e.g., Slack, Zoom, Microsoft Teams)

Each of these skills reflects your ability and even expertise in working in teams. For example, if you list “listening” among your skills, you are telling potential employers that you are open-minded, attentive, and patient .

Decision-making? This skill can identify you as one who works with others to achieve a common goal. Organizational and planning skills are often displayed by those who employ the use of time management, delegation, and task organization.

Project management is a set of skills that would support your ability to build and work with teams . Planning, scheduling, cost evaluation, work delegation , reporting, and implementation are all aspects of project management that require you to work with others.

Take a look at the following examples of how to include teamwork skills in different parts of your resume:

👌 Resume Summary

Experienced project manager with a track record of leading cross-functional teams. Proficient in virtual collaboration tools like Slack and Zoom, ensuring seamless communication in remote work settings.

The above candidate effectively highlights their capacity for leadership and their adaptability to the complexities of team collaboration in remote settings.

👌 Experience Section

• Collaborated with finance experts to assess and finalize budgets for three major projects, resulting in a 10% cost saving.
• Led a diverse team of 15, utilizing tools like Microsoft Teams for daily check-ins, ensuring project milestones were met ahead of schedule.
• Organized quarterly creative brainstorming sessions, harnessing team creativity, which increased innovative product ideas by 25%.

In this example, the candidate outlines teamwork skills that resulted in financial success for their employer, as well as their ability to lead.

👌 Education Section

• Participated in a collaborative research project at [University Name], where I coordinated with a team of 5 peers, using Slack for daily updates and Zoom for weekly meetings.
• As a student at [High School/College Name], led a team of classmates in organizing annual cultural events, fostering teamwork and coordination.
• Engaged in group projects and presentations during my [specific course] at [College Name], honing my collaboration and communication skills.

Teamwork skills are not just gained through workplace experience.  This resume sample shows how the candidate used their academic experiences to showcase their collaborative skills and proficiency with teamwork tools.

How to Improve Teamwork Skills

Since teamwork skills are imperative in nearly all workplaces, you will need to strengthen these if you wish to stand out among the other job candidates.

While you might find college or career development classes to help improve teamwork skills, there are other ways you can improve in this area. For example:

1. Embrace Digital Collaboration Tools

Mastering online tools is indispensable for effective teamwork in many work environments these days. Familiarize yourself with platforms like:

• Slack : An instant messaging tool that facilitates quick communication among team members.
• Jira : A project management tool often used in software development for tracking bugs, tasks, and stories.
• Project Management Systems : Tools like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com help in organizing tasks, setting deadlines, and monitoring project progress.

Regularly using these platforms for discussions, meetings, or even casual chats with colleagues can significantly enhance your collaborative abilities.

2. Volunteer

Research has shown that volunteering can help professionals not only advance in their careers but also develop skills that many companies look for in candidates . Among teamwork skills listed as those that one can build through volunteering are: problem-solving, communication, planning, organization , and task management.

Volunteering will provide you with the opportunity to work with others in perhaps a less stressful environment , so you’ll be able to build the teamwork skills that will carry over into your professional life.

3. Manage Your Time

In a group setting, individuals might rely on each other to accomplish a given task within a specific time. Thus, time management skills are crucial to effective teamwork. You can strengthen this skill by setting and reaching personal goals and deadlines. Through this, you can develop accountability, reliability, and organizational skills .

4. Strengthen Your Communication and Listening Skills

With communication being one of the keys to teamwork, it would be helpful to ensure that your spoken and written communication skills are top-notch.

• Take a public speaking course.
• Rely on words rather than visual aids during presentations.
• Encourage a question-and-answer session whenever you speak before an audience.

To improve your active listening skills , practice making eye contact, not interrupting a speaker, and providing feedback. Body language plays a key role, so do not look overly relaxed, distracted, or disengaged. Encourage the speaker to continue with small nods or comments, such as “yes”, to remain engaged and to get further details about the topic being discussed.

5. Learn How to Collaborate Well When Working Remotely

The shift to remote work has redefined the dynamics of teamwork. Collaborating from home presents unique challenges but also offers opportunities to hone and develop new teamwork skills.

• Regular check-ins : Schedule daily or weekly virtual check-ins with your team. Tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams can facilitate these meetings. Regular interactions maintain team cohesion and ensure everyone is aligned with project goals.
• Stay updated : In a remote environment, it’s easy to miss out on updates or changes. Make it a habit to regularly check team channels, emails, or any other communication platforms your team uses.
• Cultivate empathy : Working from home can be isolating. It’s essential to understand and respect the challenges your team members might be facing. Regularly reaching out, even for non-work-related chats, can foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.

Key Takeaways

Teamwork is a cornerstone of professional success , highly valued by employers across industries. Implement these takeaways and be better equipped to showcase your teamwork skills to potential employers and thrive in collaborative environments:

• Teamwork is essential : Employers consistently prioritize teamwork skills when evaluating job candidates. Being able to work collaboratively with others is a sought-after trait in the modern workplace.
• Highlight teamwork on your resume : Before attending an interview, it’s crucial to emphasize your teamwork skills on your resume. 
• Digital collaboration is key : In the age of remote work, being proficient with online collaboration tools like Slack, Jira, and project management systems is indispensable. These tools facilitate seamless communication and collaboration, especially in remote settings.
• Continuous improvement : Beyond formal education, there are various ways to enhance your teamwork skills, including managing your time effectively, strengthening communication, and actively listening.
• Remote work dynamics : The rise of work-from-home setups has introduced new challenges and opportunities in teamwork. Regular virtual check-ins, staying updated, and cultivating empathy are essential practices for effective remote collaboration.

With our free resume builder , you can see where to list your teamwork skills on a resume, and much more.

Our resources not only show you how to write a resume, but you also have access to a variety of resume examples that can inspire you when writing yours.

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Teamwork skills for your CV

Team works skills are highly valued in the workplace, across all industries and experience levels.

In fact, the ability to work effectively within a team is vital when it comes to achieving organisational goals.

So, it’s no surprise that companies love to hire employees with strong teamwork skills.

This guide contains 57 important teamwork skills, and shows you exactly how you can use them in the workplace and include them on your CV.

Top teamwork skills

Whilst there is an abundance of teamwork skills you could include in your CV ; these are the top 10 that employers love to see.

• Collaboration – e.g. “ Collaborating with staff from the marketing and finance teams to create a budget-friendly, yet effective campaign ”
• Influence – e.g. “Encouraged our company to switch to a hybrid working system, increasing both employee satisfaction and productivity.”
• Active listening – e.g. “Implemented an employee feedback system, frequently taking on board employee suggestions to increase the efficiency of our workflow.”
• Empathy – e.g. “Headed a successful campaign to include a yearly “mental health day” allowance for employees experiencing disruptions in their personal lives.”
• Conflict resolution – e.g. “Negotiated a U-turn on proposed budget cuts to our HR department, preventing several job losses and freezing our budget for 3 years.”
• Verbal communication – e.g. “Gave keynote speech at our annual conference in 2018, 2019, and 2022, resulting in substantial positive media coverage for our business.”
• Team building – e.g. “Regularly communicated with employees and colleagues on optimising company workflow, contributed to work outings and team-building events.”
• Diplomacy – e.g. “Was responsible for reaching out to unsuccessful applicants in our recruitment process, providing feedback forms on their candidacies.”
• Brainstorming – e.g. “Brainstormed a campaign to integrate an online business model into our company; an idea which turned into a £1m investment from key clients.”
• Negotiation – e.g. “Successfully landed 3 key clients from major competitors, offering better services at cost-effective prices.”

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Essential teamwork skills

No matter the business or organisation you work for, there are certain teamwork skills that are essential for any employee. Here’s how to add them to your CV:

• Verbal communication – e.g. “5 years’ experience working at the HR desk of [company], dealing with employee complaints, scheduling interviews, and responding to vacancy requests.”
• Written communication – e.g. “Was responsible for the day-to-day management of our company’s communications: writing to clients and customers, while also responding to social media posts and emails.”
• Flexibility – e.g. “Worked across 3 of the company’s departments on a day-to-day basis, supervising various teams while dealing with client meetings at short notice.”
• Reliability – e.g., “Voted employee of the month 7 times by my colleagues during my 3 years working as a customer service advisor.”
• Leadership – e.g. “Headed our project management team, supervising a 12 employees as they created successful marketing campaigns for clients across the UK.”
• Negotiation – e.g. “Collaborated with various departments in implementing an enhanced workflow strategy, with our department achieving 3 out of our 4 key aims.”
• Time Management – e.g. “Worked with our creative team to organise our online business launch, generating media hype and successfully launching our online store before given deadline.”
• Diplomacy – e.g. “Worked with logistics team to effectively implement new strategy to solve problems in our shipping process, leading to increased customer satisfaction.”
• Collaboration – e.g. “Collaborated with supervisors and team leaders as two of our company departments merged, creating a more optimised and communicative workspace.”

Leading a team

Leadership is a crucial function of any team, so building your leadership skills will make you valuable to any employer.

• People management – e.g. “Led a team of 15 employees to winning Small Business of the Year Award [2019] under my management.”
• Problem-solving – e.g. “Fixed shipping issues in our supply chain that had resulted in longer hours for our employees, establishing a happier work-life balance for our staff and higher employee retention.”
• Accountability – e.g. “Refused budget cut from corporate office, managed costs to ensure zero redundancies during profit slump.”
• Empathy – e.g. “ Increased our employee holiday allowance to account for personal circumstances and disruptions, resulting in increased employee retention.”
• Open Communication – e.g. “Maintained an open-door office policy with all employees, allowing constructive feedback and suggestions to optimise our workflow and better achieve company goals.”
• Delegation – e.g. “Assigned daily tasks, set monthly departmental goals, and implemented bonus initiatives to high-performing employees to encourage productivity.”
• Strategic Thinking – e.g. “Listened to employees’ concerns about expanding our business into new locations, instead successfully took our business online.”
• Innovation – e.g. “ Headed a successful campaign to incentivise eco-friendly office policies, resulting in the company obtaining a substantial government subsidy and a healthier work environment for colleagues.”
• Calculated Risk-Taking – e.g. “Took the successful decision to expand our business abroad, with our company now operating in 3 European countries and our whole team able to travel abroad for work.”
• Team Building – e.g. “Oversaw a team of 15 employees, arranged monthly team building activities to boost morale and maintain high employee retention.”

Supporting a team

Employers and recruiters are looking for candidates that can offer all-round support to their team: here are some key skills that you might use while in a supportive team role, and how to demonstrate them on your CV:

• Assistance – e.g. “Aided management in training colleagues in new office software; trained 13 employees to use Microsoft Office and PLM.”
• Adaptability – e.g. “Worked at all levels of the company, helping colleagues document financial records, assisting audits, and implementing optimisation strategies.”
• Diplomacy – e.g. “Successfully suggested a U-turn on proposed workflow optimisation policy, which would have resulted in a more complicated customer service experience.”
• Initiative – e.g. “Headed campaign to revisit our customer service strategy, resulting in a 17% increase in customer satisfaction and a simplified process.”
• Collaboration – e.g. “Worked with team leaders across the company to establish our new advertising campaign, taking on board suggestions and implementing them into the successful final product.”
• Resourcefulness – e.g. “Optimised our customer service strategy by implementing an automated online form for simple customer service requests, helping colleagues while leading to shorter call waiting times for customers.”
• Responsibility – e.g. “Was tasked with heading our marketing campaign for a client in the education sector, resulting in a positive media campaign and securing a long-term collaboration.”
• Documentation – e.g. “On-boarded over 100 new employees and trained them to work according to company policies and guidelines.”
• Detail Orientated – e.g . “Used office task software to ensure all written communication adhered to company policy, standards, and writing guidelines.”
• Creative Thinking – e.g. “Successfully proposed moving our inventory onto a new office management system, freeing up time during the workday and enhancing workflow efficiency.”

Communicating in a team

Employers want to know that you’re able to work efficiently within a diverse team: here’s how to show off your communication teamwork skills:

• Public speaking – e.g. “Presented the quarterly results to the leadership team”
• Reporting – e.g . “Creates a monthly dashboard to update CEO on sales and conversion figures”
• Writing – e.g. “Communicating with clients via email to gather updates and collect product requirements”
• Communication Skills – e.g. “Coordinated with teams across company’s 8 departments in order to implement company’s new media strategy.”
• Critical Thinking – e.g. “Was responsible for evaluating company productivity, establishing strengths and weaknesses, as well as implementing strategies for improvement.”
• Technology – e.g. “Trained all new employees in our office software, including 2 office task management systems and Microsoft Office.”
• Conflict Resolution – e.g. “ Successfully negotiated a higher budget for a long-term client’s marketing campaigns, resulting in the continuation of the partnership while cutting overheads.”
• Confidence – e.g. “Successfully proposed suggestions to our corporate office on how to maximise our social media campaign, resulting in a successful strategy overhaul.”
• Influence – e.g. “Successfully encouraged team to adopt alternative online strategy to compete with rival businesses, resulting in increased organic traffic and media exposure.”
• Persuasion – e.g. “Persuaded high-profile client to switch from their supplier to our services, resulting in a 5-year, £3 million deal for our growing company.”
• Giving and Receiving Feedback – e.g. “Was responsible for the hiring process from start to finish; selecting candidates, writing interview feedback forms, and hiring new employees.”
• Brainstorming – e.g. “Suggested and implemented new strategies for our monthly team building activities, leading to increased employee satisfaction and higher office productivity.”
• Planning Skills – e.g. “Organised company meetings, scheduled team building activities, implemented monthly employee bonus initiatives.”

What are teamwork skills?

Teamwork skills, are similar to interpersonal skills , and demonstrate your ability to thrive and function while working alongside others. Most jobs will involve being on some sort of team or working in a group, so having strong teamwork skills is a major plus for any employer.

Teamwork skills describe your ability to be diplomatic, empathetic, and manage your time, while also being able to positively influence your team and take your organisation in the right direction.

Put simply, your teamwork skills will determine the scope of your influence within your workforce: having good teamwork skills means being confident, organised, communicative, and open.

Why are teamwork skills important?

Teamwork skills are important because most jobs will require you to work collaboratively with others. If you want to have a successful career , learning how to work pro-actively in a team is essential.

Having strong teamwork skills will also prepare you for more superior roles within your industry or organisation : learning to work seamlessly alongside colleagues will prepare you for management roles and leadership roles.

Teamwork skills will also help your career thrive: you’ll find it easier to network, make connections, and climb the career ladder.

How to include teamwork skills on your CV

When it comes to including teamwork skills when writing your CV , you can highlight some key teamwork skills in your profile, or in the “core skills” area, just below your contact details.

Alternatively, you can highlight your teamwork skills when writing your former or current job descriptions, giving concrete examples of your teamwork skills in action.

In your CV profile

Listing your teamwork skills in your CV profile is a great way to quickly capture the attention of a recruiter and demonstrate that your skillset corresponds to what they’re looking for. Here are some key teamwork skills included in an example CV profile.

In your jobs

You can also list your teamwork skills in your job descriptions. This is a great way to show employers that you have real-world experience of your core skills, while any achievements related to these skills will demonstrate your competence.

Supervising Project Manager, 2015-2019, [Creative Company]

• “Conducted internal research and gathered external data to optimise workflow.” (Skill example)
• “Worked within limited client budget to produce high-converting online advertising campaign.” (Achievement example)

What to avoid

Avoid writing generic cliché statements such as “I have teamwork skills” or “I’m a team player” in your CV and cover letter – this doesn’t help your employer distinguish your CV from 100 other competitors. Instead, use your work experience to demonstrate where you’ve used these teamwork skills in the real world. After all, writing a CV is all about showing, not telling.

In addition, avoid listing every single type of teamwork skill I’ve described in this article. You have limited space on your CV, and you want the key information to stand out and be memorable. Instead of listing endless teamwork skills, focus on those most relevant to the job you’re applying for, and demonstrate how you’ve put them to use throughout your professional life.