The Importance of a Skills Section for UX Researchers and Key Elements to Include
- Philip Burgess
- Dec 21
- 3 min read
By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader
When I first started applying for UX research roles, I struggled with how to present my skills effectively. I wondered if a dedicated skills section was necessary or if my experience and projects spoke for themselves. Over time, I realized that a well-crafted skills section not only highlights your capabilities but also helps recruiters quickly understand your strengths. In this post, I’ll share why UX researchers should include a skills section on their resumes and what to include to make it stand out.
Why UX Researchers Need a Skills Section
Recruiters and hiring managers often skim resumes in seconds. A clear skills section acts as a quick reference, allowing them to see your core competencies without digging through paragraphs. For UX researchers, this is especially important because the role combines diverse abilities—from qualitative research to data analysis and user testing.
Without a skills section, your resume might miss the chance to highlight specific tools or methods you excel at. For example, mentioning proficiency in usability testing software or experience with statistical analysis tools can set you apart. It also helps applicant tracking systems (ATS) identify your resume as relevant when scanning for keywords.
What to Include in a UX Research Skills Section
A skills section should be concise but comprehensive. Here are the key elements I recommend including:
Research Methods
List the qualitative and quantitative methods you use regularly, such as interviews, surveys, usability testing, ethnographic studies, or A/B testing.
Tools and Software
Mention tools like UserTesting, Optimal Workshop, SPSS, R, or even design tools like Figma or Sketch if you use them for prototyping or analysis.
Data Analysis Skills
Highlight your ability to analyze data, whether through statistical software, Excel, or coding languages like Python or SQL.
Communication and Collaboration
UX research is about sharing insights clearly. Include skills like report writing, presenting findings, and working with cross-functional teams.
User-Centered Design Principles
Show your understanding of design thinking, accessibility standards, and how you apply user feedback to improve products.
How to Format Your Skills Section
I found that organizing skills into categories makes the section easier to scan. For example:
Research Methods
User interviews, usability testing, surveys, ethnographic research
Tools
UserTesting, Optimal Workshop, SPSS, Figma
Data Analysis
Statistical analysis, Excel, Python basics
Communication
Report writing, presentations, stakeholder collaboration
This format helps recruiters quickly find the skills they care about. Avoid long lists without structure, as they can be overwhelming and less effective.
Examples of Skills to Avoid and Include
When I first wrote my skills section, I included generic terms like "good communication" or "team player." These phrases are vague and don’t add much value. Instead, focus on specific, demonstrable skills.
Avoid:
Good communication
Team player
Hardworking
Include:
Conducting moderated user interviews
Presenting research findings to product teams
Collaborating with designers and developers
This approach shows what you actually do, not just how you describe yourself.
Personal Story: How a Skills Section Helped Me Land My Last Job
When I updated my resume for my last job application, I added a detailed skills section based on the job description. I included tools and methods mentioned in the posting and highlighted my experience with mixed-method research. Within days, I got a call for an interview.
During the interview, the hiring manager referenced my skills section and asked specific questions about my experience with usability testing platforms and data analysis. Having those skills clearly listed made it easier to steer the conversation toward my strengths.
Final Tips for Crafting Your Skills Section
Tailor your skills to each job application. Use keywords from the job description.
Keep the section concise—aim for 6 to 12 skills grouped logically.
Be honest about your proficiency. Don’t list skills you’re not comfortable discussing.
Use bullet points or short phrases for easy reading.
Update your skills regularly as you learn new tools or methods.
A well-written skills section can make your resume more effective and help you stand out in a competitive field.