problem solving and analytical skills example

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What are analytical skills? Examples and how to level up

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What are analytical skills?

Why are analytical skills important, 9 analytical skills examples, how to improve analytical skills, how to show analytical skills in a job application, the benefits of an analytical mind.

With market forecasts, performance metrics, and KPIs, work throws a lot of information at you. 

If you want to stay ahead of the curve, not only do you have to make sense of the data that comes your way — you need to put it to good use. And that requires analytical skills.

You likely use analytical thinking skills every day without realizing it, like when you solve complex problems or prioritize tasks . But understanding the meaning of analysis skills in a job description, why you should include them in your professional development plan, and what makes them vital to every position can help advance your career.

Analytical skills, or analysis skills, are the ones you use to research and interpret information. Although you might associate them with data analysis, they help you think critically about an issue, make decisions , and solve problems in any context. That means anytime you’re brainstorming for a solution or reviewing a project that didn’t go smoothly, you’re analyzing information to find a conclusion. With so many applications, they’re relevant for nearly every job, making them a must-have on your resume.

Analytical skills help you think objectively about information and come to informed conclusions. Positions that consider these skills the most essential qualification grew by 92% between 1980 and 2018 , which shows just how in-demand they are. And according to Statista, global data creation will grow to more than 180 zettabytes by 2025 — a number with 21 zeros. That data informs every industry, from tech to marketing.

Even if you don’t interact with statistics and data on the job, you still need analytical skills to be successful. They’re incredibly valuable because:

• They’re transferable: You can use analysis skills in a variety of professional contexts and in different areas of your life, like making major decisions as a family or setting better long-term personal goals.
• They build agility: Whether you’re starting a new position or experiencing a workplace shift, analysis helps you understand and adapt quickly to changing conditions. 
• They foster innovation: Analytical skills can help you troubleshoot processes or operational improvements that increase productivity and profitability.
• They make you an attractive candidate: Companies are always looking for future leaders who can build company value. Developing a strong analytical skill set shows potential employers that you’re an intelligent, growth-oriented candidate.

If the thought of evaluating data feels unintuitive, or if math and statistics aren’t your strong suits, don’t stress. Many examples of analytical thinking skills don’t involve numbers. You can build your logic and analysis abilities through a variety of capacities, such as:

1. Brainstorming

Using the information in front of you to generate new ideas is a valuable transferable skill that helps you innovate at work . Developing your brainstorming techniques leads to better collaboration and organizational growth, whether you’re thinking of team bonding activities or troubleshooting a project roadblock. Related skills include benchmarking, diagnosis, and judgment to adequately assess situations and find solutions.

2. Communication

Becoming proficient at analysis is one thing, but you should also know how to communicate your findings to your audience — especially if they don’t have the same context or experience as you. Strong communication skills like public speaking , active listening , and storytelling can help you strategize the best ways to get the message out and collaborate with your team . And thinking critically about how to approach difficult conversations or persuade someone to see your point relies on these skills. 

3. Creativity

You might not associate analysis with your creativity skills, but if you want to find an innovative approach to an age-old problem, you’ll need to combine data with creative thinking . This can help you establish effective metrics, spot trends others miss, and see why the most obvious answer to a problem isn’t always the best. Skills that can help you to think outside the box include strategic planning, collaboration, and integration.

4. Critical thinking

Processing information and determining what’s valuable requires critical thinking skills . They help you avoid the cognitive biases that prevent innovation and growth, allowing you to see things as they really are and understand their relevance. Essential skills to turn yourself into a critical thinker are comparative analysis, business intelligence, and inference.

5. Data analytics

When it comes to large volumes of information, a skilled analytical thinker can sort the beneficial from the irrelevant. Data skills give you the tools to identify trends and patterns and visualize outcomes before they impact an organization or project’s performance. Some of the most common skills you can develop are prescriptive analysis and return on investment (ROI) analysis.

6. Forecasting

Predicting future business, market, and cultural trends better positions your organization to take advantage of new opportunities or prepare for downturns. Business forecasting requires a mix of research skills and predictive abilities, like statistical analysis and data visualization, and the ability to present your findings clearly.

7. Logical reasoning

Becoming a logical thinker means learning to observe and analyze situations to draw rational and objective conclusions. With logic, you can evaluate available facts, identify patterns or correlations, and use them to improve decision-making outcomes. If you’re looking to improve in this area, consider developing inductive and deductive reasoning skills.

8. Problem-solving

Problem-solving appears in all facets of your life — not just work. Effectively finding solutions to any issue takes analysis and logic, and you also need to take initiative with clear action plans . To improve your problem-solving skills , invest in developing visualization , collaboration, and goal-setting skills.

9. Research

Knowing how to locate information is just as valuable as understanding what to do with it. With research skills, you’ll recognize and collect data relevant to the problem you’re trying to solve or the initiative you’re trying to start. You can improve these skills by learning about data collection techniques, accuracy evaluation, and metrics.

You don’t need to earn a degree in data science to develop these skills. All it takes is time, practice, and commitment. Everything from work experience to hobbies can help you learn new things and make progress. Try a few of these ideas and stick with the ones you enjoy:

1. Document your skill set

The next time you encounter a problem and need to find solutions, take time to assess your process. Ask yourself:

• What facts are you considering?
• Do you ask for help or research on your own? What are your sources of advice?
• What does your brainstorming process look like?
• How do you make and execute a final decision?
• Do you reflect on the outcomes of your choices to identify lessons and opportunities for improvement?
• Are there any mistakes you find yourself making repeatedly?
• What problems do you constantly solve easily? 

These questions can give insight into your analytical strengths and weaknesses and point you toward opportunities for growth.

2. Take courses

Many online and in-person courses can expand your logical thinking and analysis skills. They don’t necessarily have to involve information sciences. Just choose something that trains your brain and fills in your skills gaps . 

Consider studying philosophy to learn how to develop your arguments or public speaking to better communicate the results of your research. You could also work on your hard skills with tools like Microsoft Excel and learn how to crunch numbers effectively. Whatever you choose, you can explore different online courses or certification programs to upskill. 

3. Analyze everything

Spend time consciously and critically evaluating everything — your surroundings, work processes, and even the way you interact with others. Integrating analysis into your day-to-day helps you practice. The analytical part of your brain is like a muscle, and the more you use it, the stronger it’ll become. 

After reading a book, listening to a podcast, or watching a movie, take some time to analyze what you watched. What were the messages? What did you learn? How was it delivered? Taking this approach to media will help you apply it to other scenarios in your life. 

If you’re giving a presentation at work or helping your team upskill , use the opportunity to flex the analytical side of your brain. For effective teaching, you’ll need to process and analyze the topic thoroughly, which requires skills like logic and communication. You also have to analyze others’ learning styles and adjust your teachings to match them. 

5. Play games

Spend your commute or weekends working on your skills in a way you enjoy. Try doing logic games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles during work breaks to foster critical thinking. And you can also integrate analytical skills into your existing hobbies. According to researcher Rakesh Ghildiyal, even team sports like soccer or hockey will stretch your capacity for analysis and strategic thinking . 

6. Ask questions

According to a study in Tr ends in Cognitive Sciences, being curious improves cognitive function , helping you develop problem-solving skills, retention, and memory. Start speaking up in meetings and questioning the why and how of different decisions around you. You’ll think more critically and even help your team find breakthrough solutions they otherwise wouldn’t.

7.Seek advice

If you’re unsure what analytical skills you need to develop, try asking your manager or colleagues for feedback . Their outside perspective offers insight you might not find within, like patterns in. And if you’re looking for more consistent guidance, talking to a coach can help you spot weaknesses and set goals for the long term.

8. Pursue opportunities

Speak to your manager about participating in special projects that could help you develop and flex your skills. If you’d like to learn about SEO or market research, ask to shadow someone in the ecommerce or marketing departments. If you’re interested in business forecasting, talk to the data analysis team. Taking initiative demonstrates a desire to learn and shows leadership that you’re eager to grow. 

Shining a spotlight on your analytical skills can help you at any stage of your job search. But since they take many forms, it’s best to be specific and show potential employers exactly why and how they make you a better candidate. Here are a few ways you can showcase them to the fullest:

1. In your cover letter

Your cover letter crafts a narrative around your skills and work experience. Use it to tell a story about how you put your analytical skills to use to solve a problem or improve workflow. Make sure to include concrete details to explain your thought process and solution — just keep it concise. Relate it back to the job description to show the hiring manager or recruiter you have the qualifications necessary to succeed.

2. On your resume

Depending on the type of resume you’re writing, there are many opportunities to convey your analytical skills to a potential employer. You could include them in sections like: 

• Professional summary: If you decide to include a summary, describe yourself as an analytical person or a problem-solver, whichever relates best to the job posting. 
• Work experience: Describe all the ways your skill for analysis has helped you perform or go above and beyond your responsibilities. Be sure to include specific details about challenges and outcomes related to the role you’re applying for to show how you use those skills. 
• Skills section: If your resume has a skill-specific section, itemize the analytical abilities you’ve developed over your career. These can include hard analytical skills like predictive modeling as well as interpersonal skills like communication.

3. During a job interview

As part of your interview preparation , list your professional accomplishments and the skills that helped along the way, such as problem-solving, data literacy, or strategic thinking. Then, pull them together into confident answers to common interview questions using the STAR method to give the interviewer a holistic picture of your skill set.

Developing analytical skills isn’t only helpful in the workplace. It’s essential to life. You’ll use them daily whenever you read the news, make a major purchase, or interact with others. Learning to critically evaluate information can benefit your relationships and help you feel more confident in your decisions, whether you’re weighing your personal budget or making a big career change .

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Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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26 Expert-Backed Problem Solving Examples – Interview Answers

Published: February 13, 2023

Interview Questions and Answers

Actionable advice from real experts:

Biron Clark

Former Recruiter

Contributor

Dr. Kyle Elliott

Career Coach

Hayley Jukes

Editor-in-Chief

Biron Clark , Former Recruiter

Kyle Elliott , Career Coach

Hayley Jukes , Editor

As a recruiter , I know employers like to hire people who can solve problems and work well under pressure.

 A job rarely goes 100% according to plan, so hiring managers are more likely to hire you if you seem like you can handle unexpected challenges while staying calm and logical.

But how do they measure this?

Hiring managers will ask you interview questions about your problem-solving skills, and they might also look for examples of problem-solving on your resume and cover letter. 

In this article, I’m going to share a list of problem-solving examples and sample interview answers to questions like, “Give an example of a time you used logic to solve a problem?” and “Describe a time when you had to solve a problem without managerial input. How did you handle it, and what was the result?”

• Problem-solving involves identifying, prioritizing, analyzing, and solving problems using a variety of skills like critical thinking, creativity, decision making, and communication.
• Describe the Situation, Task, Action, and Result ( STAR method ) when discussing your problem-solving experiences.
• Tailor your interview answer with the specific skills and qualifications outlined in the job description.
• Provide numerical data or metrics to demonstrate the tangible impact of your problem-solving efforts.

What are Problem Solving Skills? 

Problem-solving is the ability to identify a problem, prioritize based on gravity and urgency, analyze the root cause, gather relevant information, develop and evaluate viable solutions, decide on the most effective and logical solution, and plan and execute implementation. 

Problem-solving encompasses other skills that can be showcased in an interview response and your resume. Problem-solving skills examples include:

• Critical thinking
• Analytical skills
• Decision making
• Research skills
• Technical skills
• Communication skills
• Adaptability and flexibility

Why is Problem Solving Important in the Workplace?

Problem-solving is essential in the workplace because it directly impacts productivity and efficiency. Whenever you encounter a problem, tackling it head-on prevents minor issues from escalating into bigger ones that could disrupt the entire workflow. 

Beyond maintaining smooth operations, your ability to solve problems fosters innovation. It encourages you to think creatively, finding better ways to achieve goals, which keeps the business competitive and pushes the boundaries of what you can achieve. 

Effective problem-solving also contributes to a healthier work environment; it reduces stress by providing clear strategies for overcoming obstacles and builds confidence within teams. 

Examples of Problem-Solving in the Workplace

• Correcting a mistake at work, whether it was made by you or someone else
• Overcoming a delay at work through problem solving and communication
• Resolving an issue with a difficult or upset customer
• Overcoming issues related to a limited budget, and still delivering good work through the use of creative problem solving
• Overcoming a scheduling/staffing shortage in the department to still deliver excellent work
• Troubleshooting and resolving technical issues
• Handling and resolving a conflict with a coworker
• Solving any problems related to money, customer billing, accounting and bookkeeping, etc.
• Taking initiative when another team member overlooked or missed something important
• Taking initiative to meet with your superior to discuss a problem before it became potentially worse
• Solving a safety issue at work or reporting the issue to those who could solve it
• Using problem solving abilities to reduce/eliminate a company expense
• Finding a way to make the company more profitable through new service or product offerings, new pricing ideas, promotion and sale ideas, etc.
• Changing how a process, team, or task is organized to make it more efficient
• Using creative thinking to come up with a solution that the company hasn’t used before
• Performing research to collect data and information to find a new solution to a problem
• Boosting a company or team’s performance by improving some aspect of communication among employees
• Finding a new piece of data that can guide a company’s decisions or strategy better in a certain area

Problem-Solving Examples for Recent Grads/Entry-Level Job Seekers

• Coordinating work between team members in a class project
• Reassigning a missing team member’s work to other group members in a class project
• Adjusting your workflow on a project to accommodate a tight deadline
• Speaking to your professor to get help when you were struggling or unsure about a project
• Asking classmates, peers, or professors for help in an area of struggle
• Talking to your academic advisor to brainstorm solutions to a problem you were facing
• Researching solutions to an academic problem online, via Google or other methods
• Using problem solving and creative thinking to obtain an internship or other work opportunity during school after struggling at first

How To Answer “Tell Us About a Problem You Solved”

When you answer interview questions about problem-solving scenarios, or if you decide to demonstrate your problem-solving skills in a cover letter (which is a good idea any time the job description mentions problem-solving as a necessary skill), I recommend using the STAR method.

STAR stands for:

It’s a simple way of walking the listener or reader through the story in a way that will make sense to them. 

Start by briefly describing the general situation and the task at hand. After this, describe the course of action you chose and why. Ideally, show that you evaluated all the information you could given the time you had, and made a decision based on logic and fact. Finally, describe the positive result you achieved.

Note: Our sample answers below are structured following the STAR formula. Be sure to check them out!

EXPERT ADVICE

Dr. Kyle Elliott , MPA, CHES Tech & Interview Career Coach caffeinatedkyle.com

How can I communicate complex problem-solving experiences clearly and succinctly?

Before answering any interview question, it’s important to understand why the interviewer is asking the question in the first place.

When it comes to questions about your complex problem-solving experiences, for example, the interviewer likely wants to know about your leadership acumen, collaboration abilities, and communication skills, not the problem itself.

Therefore, your answer should be focused on highlighting how you excelled in each of these areas, not diving into the weeds of the problem itself, which is a common mistake less-experienced interviewees often make.

Tailoring Your Answer Based on the Skills Mentioned in the Job Description

As a recruiter, one of the top tips I can give you when responding to the prompt “Tell us about a problem you solved,” is to tailor your answer to the specific skills and qualifications outlined in the job description. 

Once you’ve pinpointed the skills and key competencies the employer is seeking, craft your response to highlight experiences where you successfully utilized or developed those particular abilities. 

For instance, if the job requires strong leadership skills, focus on a problem-solving scenario where you took charge and effectively guided a team toward resolution. 

By aligning your answer with the desired skills outlined in the job description, you demonstrate your suitability for the role and show the employer that you understand their needs.

Amanda Augustine expands on this by saying:

“Showcase the specific skills you used to solve the problem. Did it require critical thinking, analytical abilities, or strong collaboration? Highlight the relevant skills the employer is seeking.”  

Interview Answers to “Tell Me About a Time You Solved a Problem”

Now, let’s look at some sample interview answers to, “Give me an example of a time you used logic to solve a problem,” or “Tell me about a time you solved a problem,” since you’re likely to hear different versions of this interview question in all sorts of industries.

The example interview responses are structured using the STAR method and are categorized into the top 5 key problem-solving skills recruiters look for in a candidate.

1. Analytical Thinking

Situation: In my previous role as a data analyst , our team encountered a significant drop in website traffic.

Task: I was tasked with identifying the root cause of the decrease.

Action: I conducted a thorough analysis of website metrics, including traffic sources, user demographics, and page performance. Through my analysis, I discovered a technical issue with our website’s loading speed, causing users to bounce. 

Result: By optimizing server response time, compressing images, and minimizing redirects, we saw a 20% increase in traffic within two weeks.

2. Critical Thinking

Situation: During a project deadline crunch, our team encountered a major technical issue that threatened to derail our progress.

Task: My task was to assess the situation and devise a solution quickly.

Action: I immediately convened a meeting with the team to brainstorm potential solutions. Instead of panicking, I encouraged everyone to think outside the box and consider unconventional approaches. We analyzed the problem from different angles and weighed the pros and cons of each solution.

Result: By devising a workaround solution, we were able to meet the project deadline, avoiding potential delays that could have cost the company $100,000 in penalties for missing contractual obligations.

3. Decision Making

Situation: As a project manager , I was faced with a dilemma when two key team members had conflicting opinions on the project direction.

Task: My task was to make a decisive choice that would align with the project goals and maintain team cohesion.

Action: I scheduled a meeting with both team members to understand their perspectives in detail. I listened actively, asked probing questions, and encouraged open dialogue. After carefully weighing the pros and cons of each approach, I made a decision that incorporated elements from both viewpoints.

Result: The decision I made not only resolved the immediate conflict but also led to a stronger sense of collaboration within the team. By valuing input from all team members and making a well-informed decision, we were able to achieve our project objectives efficiently.

4. Communication (Teamwork)

Situation: During a cross-functional project, miscommunication between departments was causing delays and misunderstandings.

Task: My task was to improve communication channels and foster better teamwork among team members.

Action: I initiated regular cross-departmental meetings to ensure that everyone was on the same page regarding project goals and timelines. I also implemented a centralized communication platform where team members could share updates, ask questions, and collaborate more effectively.

Result: Streamlining workflows and improving communication channels led to a 30% reduction in project completion time, saving the company $25,000 in operational costs.

5. Persistence 

Situation: During a challenging sales quarter, I encountered numerous rejections and setbacks while trying to close a major client deal.

Task: My task was to persistently pursue the client and overcome obstacles to secure the deal.

Action: I maintained regular communication with the client, addressing their concerns and demonstrating the value proposition of our product. Despite facing multiple rejections, I remained persistent and resilient, adjusting my approach based on feedback and market dynamics.

Result: After months of perseverance, I successfully closed the deal with the client. By closing the major client deal, I exceeded quarterly sales targets by 25%, resulting in a revenue increase of $250,000 for the company.

Tips to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

Throughout your career, being able to showcase and effectively communicate your problem-solving skills gives you more leverage in achieving better jobs and earning more money .

So to improve your problem-solving skills, I recommend always analyzing a problem and situation before acting.

 When discussing problem-solving with employers, you never want to sound like you rush or make impulsive decisions. They want to see fact-based or data-based decisions when you solve problems.

Don’t just say you’re good at solving problems. Show it with specifics. How much did you boost efficiency? Did you save the company money? Adding numbers can really make your achievements stand out.

To get better at solving problems, analyze the outcomes of past solutions you came up with. You can recognize what works and what doesn’t.

Think about how you can improve researching and analyzing a situation, how you can get better at communicating, and deciding on the right people in the organization to talk to and “pull in” to help you if needed, etc.

Finally, practice staying calm even in stressful situations. Take a few minutes to walk outside if needed. Step away from your phone and computer to clear your head. A work problem is rarely so urgent that you cannot take five minutes to think (with the possible exception of safety problems), and you’ll get better outcomes if you solve problems by acting logically instead of rushing to react in a panic.

You can use all of the ideas above to describe your problem-solving skills when asked interview questions about the topic. If you say that you do the things above, employers will be impressed when they assess your problem-solving ability.

More Interview Resources

• 3 Answers to “How Do You Handle Stress?”
• How to Answer “How Do You Handle Conflict?” (Interview Question)
• Sample Answers to “Tell Me About a Time You Failed”

About the Author

Biron Clark is a former executive recruiter who has worked individually with hundreds of job seekers, reviewed thousands of resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and recruited for top venture-backed startups and Fortune 500 companies. He has been advising job seekers since 2012 to think differently in their job search and land high-paying, competitive positions. Follow on Twitter and LinkedIn .

Read more articles by Biron Clark

About the Contributor

Kyle Elliott , career coach and mental health advocate, transforms his side hustle into a notable practice, aiding Silicon Valley professionals in maximizing potential. Follow Kyle on LinkedIn .

About the Editor

Hayley Jukes is the Editor-in-Chief at CareerSidekick with five years of experience creating engaging articles, books, and transcripts for diverse platforms and audiences.

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10 Examples: What Are Analytical Skills?

By Status.net Editorial Team on June 17, 2023 — 10 minutes to read

Analytical skills are cognitive abilities that allow you to process, evaluate, and interpret complex information. These skills allow you to make data-driven decisions and solve problems effectively. In today’s fast-paced and data-driven world, having strong analytical skills is essential to excel in both personal and professional endeavors.

There are several components to analytical skills, such as critical thinking, data and information analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making. These components work in tandem to help you analyze various factors, uncover patterns or trends, and draw logical conclusions based on available data.

Here are some examples of analytical skills:

• Critical thinking: The ability to objectively evaluate information and form a reasoned judgment.
• Data analysis: The process of collecting, organizing, interpreting, and presenting data.
• Problem-solving: The capacity to identify issues, analyze potential solutions, and implement the most effective course of action.
• Decision-making: The process of choosing the most appropriate option among various alternatives based on relevant information.
• Research: The skill to gather information on a specific topic, interpret it and draw conclusions.

To showcase your analytical skills in a job application, emphasize instances where you have used these abilities to achieve positive results. Include metrics or specific examples that demonstrate the impact of your actions.

1. Critical thinking: “Analyzed complex data sets and objectively evaluated information to form a reasoned judgment, resulting in a 10% increase in sales revenue.”

2. Data analysis: “Utilized advanced data analysis techniques to collect, organize, interpret, and present data, resulting in a 20% reduction in operating costs.”

3. Problem-solving: “Identified issues in the production process, analyzed potential solutions, and implemented the most effective course of action, resulting in a 15% increase in productivity.”

4. Decision-making: “Made informed decisions by choosing the most appropriate option among various alternatives based on relevant information, resulting in a 25% increase in customer satisfaction.”

5. Research: “Conducted extensive research on market trends and customer preferences, interpreted the data, and drew conclusions that informed the development of new products, resulting in a 30% increase in sales.”

Related: Top Transferable Skills Every Company Wants

Analytical Skills Examples

Research and data analysis.

In your research and data analysis efforts, you can showcase your analytical skills by gathering relevant information, processing it, and drawing conclusions from the findings. For example:

• Conducting market research to identify trends and patterns
• Analyzing data to determine effectiveness of an advertising campaign
• Utilizing statistical software to evaluate data and make predictions

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking involves analyzing information, considering alternative viewpoints, and making informed decisions. Examples of using critical thinking skills include:

• Evaluating the pros and cons before making a decision
• Recognizing potential pitfalls or inconsistencies in a plan
• Identifying and questioning assumptions in an argument

Problem-Solving

Problem-solving requires identifying issues, generating potential solutions, and selecting the most appropriate course of action. Some examples of problem-solving skills in action are:

• Troubleshooting technical issues by systematically examining components
• Resolving customer complaints by finding mutually beneficial solutions
• Implementing new processes to increase efficiency and reduce errors

Communication

Effective communication is a vital analytical skill, as it enables you to convey your findings and ideas to others. Through clear and concise presentations, you can demonstrate your ability to:

• Summarize complex data in easy-to-understand formats
• Explain your thought process while reaching a decision
• Collaborate with team members to formulate plans and solve problems

Analytical Skills Examples for Different Industries

Analytical skills in marketing: resume paragraph example.

“I possess strong analytical skills that allow me to understand consumer behavior and trends. I have experience utilizing statistical analysis to identify patterns in customer preferences and target campaigns effectively. This knowledge has allowed me to segment audiences, set priorities, and optimize marketing strategies, resulting in increased ROI and customer engagement.”

Analytical Skills in Finance: Resume Paragraph Example

“With my financial analytical skills, I am able to manage budgets, analyze balance sheets, and forecast revenue growth. I have experience utilizing financial models to assess investment opportunities, evaluate profitability, and perform risk assessments. This skill set has enabled me to make informed decisions that impact my organization’s financial health, resulting in increased profitability and stability.”

Analytical Skills in Sales: Resume Paragraph Example

“My analytical skills allow me to interpret sales data, identify trends, and forecast future demand. I have experience planning targeted sales strategies, allocating resources efficiently, and increasing overall productivity in the industry, resulting in increased sales revenue.”

Analytical Skills in Website Management: Resume Paragraph Example

“I possess strong analytical skills that allow me to analyze user behavior and site performance to optimize the user experience. I have experience tracking website metrics and probabilities to identify areas for improvement, drive more traffic, and engage users more effectively.”

Analytical Skills in Science and Research: Resume Paragraph Example

“I possess essential analytical skills for designing experiments, interpreting data, and drawing informed conclusions. I have experience critically analyzing research findings and challenging existing models to drive innovation and advancements in my field.”

Demonstrating Analytical Skills

To showcase your analytical skills in your resume, include them in the Skills section as bullet points. Be specific, mentioning the particular analytical abilities you excel in. For instance:

• Data analysis
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving

Next, incorporate your analytical skills within your Work Experience section. Use action verbs and quantify your accomplishments wherever possible. Here’s an example:

• “Analyzed market trends to increase sales by 20% in Q3”

Cover Letter

Your cover letter offers an opportunity to provide context and examples of how you’ve utilized your analytical skills in the past. Choose a specific experience or project to discuss, and demonstrate how your skills contributed to its success. For example:

“In my previous role as a Market Analyst at X Company, I employed my data analysis skills to identify business growth opportunities. I assessed customer feedback and sales data, allowing us to better target our marketing efforts and resulting in a 15% increase in customer satisfaction.”

Job Interview

During the job interview, be prepared to provide concrete examples of how you’ve applied your analytical skills. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to describe a particular scenario in which you demonstrated your abilities:

• Situation : Explain the context or challenge you faced
• Task : Describe the goal you were trying to achieve
• Action : Express the specific steps you took, emphasizing your analytical skills
• Result : Share the positive outcome achieved

For example:

“In my last position as a Financial Analyst, I was tasked with identifying cost-saving measures for our department. I meticulously reviewed budget reports and discovered discrepancies in vendor billing. By negotiating new contracts, we managed to save the company $50,000 annually.”

Developing and Enhancing Analytical Skills

Improving critical and analytical thinking.

To improve your critical and analytical thinking skills, start by questioning assumptions and evaluating the source of information. Expand your knowledge base by reading diverse materials and participating in discussions with individuals who have different perspectives. Utilize activities such as puzzles, brainteasers, and strategy games to challenge your brain further. Also, think critically about your own beliefs and decisions to foster self-awareness, humility, and open-mindedness.

Problem-Solving Techniques

Effective problem-solving techniques include breaking down complex issues into smaller, more manageable components and analyzing each independently. This approach allows you to systematically address challenges step-by-step. Additionally, brainstorm various potential solutions, considering both conventional and unconventional ideas. After identifying possible options, evaluate the pros and cons of each, and select the most viable ones to implement.

Related: Top Problem-Solving Skills for Today’s Job Market

The Role of Soft and Hard Skills

As you develop your analytical skills, it’s important to understand the roles of both soft and hard skills. Soft skills pertain to your interpersonal, communication, and collaborative abilities, which contribute to your overall effectiveness in the workplace. On the other hand, hard skills or technical skills refer to the specific capabilities you possess, such as programming, data analysis, or expertise in a particular software.

A well-rounded professional should have a combination of both soft and hard skills. To effectively analyze data, interpret findings, and solve complex problems, you need not only the technical expertise but also the communication and relationship-building skills to work with others.

In the context of analytical skills, examples of soft skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. These abilities allow you to see beyond the numbers, identify patterns, and anticipate how changes in one area may affect another. Additionally, communication and collaboration skills are key for working in a team setting, understanding different perspectives, and finding the best solution. Related: What Are Soft Skills? (and How to Showcase Them)

Examples of hard skills related to analytical skills include data processing, statistical analysis, and experience with analytical tools like Excel or SQL. These technical abilities enable you to gather, process, and analyze data more efficiently and accurately, helping you produce valuable insights for your team and organization. Related: Technical Skills Examples for Resume and List of 21 Important Technical Skills (with Examples)

To showcase your analytical skills in a job application, consider mentioning specific instances where you applied your analytical abilities, such as solving a complex issue or improving a process through data-driven insights. Provide examples that demonstrate your proficiency in relevant technical tools or software.

The Importance of Analytical Skills in the Workplace

As an employee, your ability to process and interpret information allows you to make well-informed decisions, spot trends, and tackle complex problems.

One of the key aspects of analytical skills is decision-making . In any job, your ability to make sound decisions in a timely manner will contribute to your success. By breaking down complex information and identifying patterns, you can draw from a rich pool of knowledge and make confident choices that benefit both your team and your organization.

As you hone your analytical skills, you’ll understand more effectively how to process the deluge of information present in today’s work environment. Whether you’re dealing with data, reports, or research, your ability to extract meaningful insights will allow you to add value to projects and deliver results that have a tangible impact.

Related: Effective Decision Making Process: 7 Steps with Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common examples of analytical skills.

Some common examples of analytical skills include: problem-solving, critical thinking, data analysis, decision-making, systems thinking, research, attention to detail, and forecasting. These skills allow you to effectively gather, interpret, and apply information to understand complex situations and make well-informed decisions.

How do you demonstrate analytical skills in a job interview?

During a job interview, you can demonstrate your analytical skills by:

• Sharing specific examples of how you used analytical skills to solve a problem or make a decision in your past work experiences.
• Highlighting projects or tasks where you had to analyze data, identify patterns, and derive conclusions.
• Discussing tools and techniques you have used for data analysis, such as spreadsheets, statistical software, or analytical frameworks.
• Explaining your thought process in real-time when answering situational or problem-solving interview questions.

What are the key differences between analytical skills and critical thinking?

Analytical skills involve techniques for gathering, organizing, interpreting, and drawing conclusions from data and information, while critical thinking is a broader skill that includes the ability to question assumptions, evaluate arguments, and make informed judgments based on evidence and sound reasoning.

How do analytical skills benefit workplace performance?

Analytical skills can improve workplace performance by:

• Enhancing decision-making processes, leading to more informed and effective choices.
• Identifying patterns and trends in data that can inform future planning or strategies.
• Improving troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities, helping to resolve issues more efficiently.
• Increasing innovation and creativity by encouraging systematic exploration of ideas and synthesis of new insights.

Which professions require strong analytical skills?

Professions that often require strong analytical skills include: data analysts, finance professionals, business analysts, marketers, economists, scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, and project managers. However, analytical skills can be valuable assets in virtually any industry and role, as they are crucial for problem-solving and effective decision-making.

What are some effective ways to develop and enhance analytical skills?

To develop and enhance your analytical skills, consider the following:

• Engaging in activities that require data analysis, such as working on projects, participating in clubs or organizations, or volunteering in relevant fields.
• Taking courses or attending workshops on subjects like statistics, logic, data visualization, and related topics.
• Practicing problem-solving techniques, such as breaking down complex issues into smaller components or using models and frameworks to guide your thinking.
• Seeking feedback on your work and learning from experience, as well as observing and learning from professionals with strong analytical skills.
• 8 Examples: Top Problem Solving Skills
• 37 Analytical Skills Self Evaluation Comments Examples
• Self Evaluation Examples [Complete Guide]

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How to Answer Analytical Skills Interview Questions

Why is the interviewer testing your analytical skills? During an interview, your employer may ask you some tricky questions to assess your problem-solving skills and how you use data to analyze and evaluate processes. By preparing for these questions in advance with sample answers created by our team at Workable, you can demonstrate your analytical skills and present yourself as an outstanding candidate.

Workable's content team brings its HR & employment expertise to Resources.

What are common interview questions ?

The following analytical interview questions assess how you:

• Gather data to inform your decisions
• Assess both positive and negative situations to improve your processes
• Are able to develop processes 
• Evaluate information through critical thinking
• Think through problems to find solutions
• Set and achieve goals
• Communicate your findings and decisions to a team

Describe a situation where you needed to solve a problem but did not have all the information you needed to do so. What did you do then?

This question requires you to demonstrate your research skills and problem-solving abilities. Use this opportunity to show what makes you unique and how analytical, organized, and detail-oriented you are by supporting your interview answer with real work experience.

Sample answer: “Sales were down, and I needed to find a solution. I sent out surveys to team members to determine the cause of the problem. It turned out that sales were down because employees were not following up on leads. After I implemented a new project management system, sales increased by 10%.”

How do you weigh the pros and cons before making a decision?

When answering the question, explain how you make decisions, what systems you use, and why you use them. There’s no right or wrong system.

Sample answer: “When I make decisions, I use logic and reasoning and ensure I have gathered all the information I need. I then use the facts to weigh the different options and evaluate the likelihood of each outcome. I make the best decision for my company based on the ideal scenario.”

Your manager wants to buy new software or hardware to increase team productivity and asks you for a recommendation. How would you respond?

Your interviewer has asked you to imagine a job-related scenario. It’s hypothetical, but it will test your ability to think through all the relevant factors. 

Sample answer: “ First, I would research which functions are most important to my supervisor and what the budget constraints are. Then I would search for productivity software that would meet current and future needs. Once I compiled a list of 5-10 options, I would narrow it down to three with a top recommendation.”

Explain step-by-step how you troubleshoot [X] problem

You are not expected to solve the problem but rather explain how you approach it.

Sample answer: “I first try to understand the situation. Then I take a step-by-step approach to figure out what caused the problem. If I can’t do it myself, I ask for help. At that point, we should have found something that works. If not, I’ll review to see if there’s another step I have overlooked or contact my managers .”

What metrics do you regularly track (e.g., conversion rates, number of new customers, expenses)? What information do you research, and how do you use it?

Answer this with a metric that you know is relevant to the job you are applying for.

Sample answer: “ I currently use analytics software to track where visitors to my website are coming from and their activities while they are there. This helps me understand how successful our current campaigns are and how often we attract new visitors to our site. These statistics assist in determining the next step for the business .”

Do you need to prepare for an analytical skills interview?

For your interview preparation , it’s a good idea to have some answers in mind beforehand to clarify your thoughts. The best way to do this is to practice using these sample questions and answers and adapting them to your role. You can also prepare for an interview by looking at the types of decision-making questions an interviewer might ask.

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Why do employers hire employees? To help them solve problems. Whether you’re a financial analyst deciding where to invest your firm’s money, or a marketer trying to figure out which channel to direct your efforts, companies hire people to help them find solutions. Problem-solving is an essential and marketable soft skill in the workplace. 

So, how can you improve your problem-solving and show employers you have this valuable skill? In this guide, we’ll cover:

Problem-Solving Skills Definition

Why are problem-solving skills important, problem-solving skills examples, how to include problem-solving skills in a job application, how to improve problem-solving skills, problem-solving: the bottom line.

Problem-solving skills are the ability to identify problems, brainstorm and analyze answers, and implement the best solutions. An employee with good problem-solving skills is both a self-starter and a collaborative teammate; they are proactive in understanding the root of a problem and work with others to consider a wide range of solutions before deciding how to move forward. 

Examples of using problem-solving skills in the workplace include:

• Researching patterns to understand why revenue decreased last quarter
• Experimenting with a new marketing channel to increase website sign-ups
• Brainstorming content types to share with potential customers
• Testing calls to action to see which ones drive the most product sales
• Implementing a new workflow to automate a team process and increase productivity

Problem-solving skills are the most sought-after soft skill of 2022. In fact, 86% of employers look for problem-solving skills on student resumes, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook 2022 survey . 

It’s unsurprising why employers are looking for this skill: companies will always need people to help them find solutions to their problems. Someone proactive and successful at problem-solving is valuable to any team.

“Employers are looking for employees who can make decisions independently, especially with the prevalence of remote/hybrid work and the need to communicate asynchronously,” Eric Mochnacz, senior HR consultant at Red Clover, says. “Employers want to see individuals who can make well-informed decisions that mitigate risk, and they can do so without suffering from analysis paralysis.”

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Problem-solving includes three main parts: identifying the problem, analyzing possible solutions, and deciding on the best course of action.

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

Research is the first step of problem-solving because it helps you understand the context of a problem. Researching a problem enables you to learn why the problem is happening. For example, is revenue down because of a new sales tactic? Or because of seasonality? Is there a problem with who the sales team is reaching out to? 

Research broadens your scope to all possible reasons why the problem could be happening. Then once you figure it out, it helps you narrow your scope to start solving it. 

Analysis is the next step of problem-solving. Now that you’ve identified the problem, analytical skills help you look at what potential solutions there might be.

“The goal of analysis isn’t to solve a problem, actually — it’s to better understand it because that’s where the real solution will be found,” Gretchen Skalka, owner of Career Insights Consulting, says. “Looking at a problem through the lens of impartiality is the only way to get a true understanding of it from all angles.”

Decision-Making

Once you’ve figured out where the problem is coming from and what solutions are, it’s time to decide on the best way to go forth. Decision-making skills help you determine what resources are available, what a feasible action plan entails, and what solution is likely to lead to success.

On a Resume

Employers looking for problem-solving skills might include the word “problem-solving” or other synonyms like “ critical thinking ” or “analytical skills” in the job description.

“I would add ‘buzzwords’ you can find from the job descriptions or LinkedIn endorsements section to filter into your resume to comply with the ATS,” Matthew Warzel, CPRW resume writer, advises. Warzel recommends including these skills on your resume but warns to “leave the soft skills as adjectives in the summary section. That is the only place soft skills should be mentioned.”

On the other hand, you can list hard skills separately in a skills section on your resume .

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In a Cover Letter or an Interview

Explaining your problem-solving skills in an interview can seem daunting. You’re required to expand on your process — how you identified a problem, analyzed potential solutions, and made a choice. As long as you can explain your approach, it’s okay if that solution didn’t come from a professional work experience.

“Young professionals shortchange themselves by thinking only paid-for solutions matter to employers,” Skalka says. “People at the genesis of their careers don’t have a wealth of professional experience to pull from, but they do have relevant experience to share.”

Aaron Case, career counselor and CPRW at Resume Genius, agrees and encourages early professionals to share this skill. “If you don’t have any relevant work experience yet, you can still highlight your problem-solving skills in your cover letter,” he says. “Just showcase examples of problems you solved while completing your degree, working at internships, or volunteering. You can even pull examples from completely unrelated part-time jobs, as long as you make it clear how your problem-solving ability transfers to your new line of work.”

Learn How to Identify Problems

Problem-solving doesn’t just require finding solutions to problems that are already there. It’s also about being proactive when something isn’t working as you hoped it would. Practice questioning and getting curious about processes and activities in your everyday life. What could you improve? What would you do if you had more resources for this process? If you had fewer? Challenge yourself to challenge the world around you.

Think Digitally

“Employers in the modern workplace value digital problem-solving skills, like being able to find a technology solution to a traditional issue,” Case says. “For example, when I first started working as a marketing writer, my department didn’t have the budget to hire a professional voice actor for marketing video voiceovers. But I found a perfect solution to the problem with an AI voiceover service that cost a fraction of the price of an actor.”

Being comfortable with new technology — even ones you haven’t used before — is a valuable skill in an increasingly hybrid and remote world. Don’t be afraid to research new and innovative technologies to help automate processes or find a more efficient technological solution.

Collaborate

Problem-solving isn’t done in a silo, and it shouldn’t be. Use your collaboration skills to gather multiple perspectives, help eliminate bias, and listen to alternative solutions. Ask others where they think the problem is coming from and what solutions would help them with your workflow. From there, try to compromise on a solution that can benefit everyone.

If we’ve learned anything from the past few years, it’s that the world of work is constantly changing — which means it’s crucial to know how to adapt . Be comfortable narrowing down a solution, then changing your direction when a colleague provides a new piece of information. Challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone, whether with your personal routine or trying a new system at work.

Put Yourself in the Middle of Tough Moments

Just like adapting requires you to challenge your routine and tradition, good problem-solving requires you to put yourself in challenging situations — especially ones where you don’t have relevant experience or expertise to find a solution. Because you won’t know how to tackle the problem, you’ll learn new problem-solving skills and how to navigate new challenges. Ask your manager or a peer if you can help them work on a complicated problem, and be proactive about asking them questions along the way.

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Companies always need people to help them find solutions — especially proactive employees who have practical analytical skills and can collaborate to decide the best way to move forward. Whether or not you have experience solving problems in a professional workplace, illustrate your problem-solving skills by describing your research, analysis, and decision-making process — and make it clear that you’re the solution to the employer’s current problems. 

Image Credit: Christina Morillo / Pexels 

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Analytical skills: What are they and how to add them to your resumé

Understanding information is one thing, but analysing it? That’s a whole other skill set. That’s where your analytical skills come in – they allow you to draw conclusions from information, so you can make informed decisions.

Analytical thinking plays a big role in our day-to-day lives, allowing us to examine a problem or a data set to find a solution. This ‘solution’ could be insights, trends or ways to overcome a challenge. In the workplace it’s often required for data-specific tasks, but analystical skills are  also transferable , so they come in handy in almost all areas of life. 

There are many different types of analytical skills that are useful at work, including critical thinking, problem solving and data interpretation. A retail assistant may have to think outside the box to help a customer, while a project manager would need data analysis skills to report on the potential risks of a job. 

Whatever your role, you’ll learn everything you need to know about different analytical skills and how to make the use of them in this guide. 

What are analytical skills?

Analytical skills involve the ability to gather, interpret and assess information to make informed decisions or solve problems. Using critical thinking, problem solving and analytical skills can help you advise on or make decisions based on what is most likely to provide the best outcome.

Why is having an analytical mindset important?

We make decisions all day everyday – some consciously, and many more subconsciously. Being able to make the right decisions about more complex problems can greatly impact the outcome. Developing better analytical abilities can help you:

• Break down complex problems to get to the bottom of the issue. From there, you can come up with effective solutions
• Make informed decisions, helping save money, time and stress
• Appear and feel confident and in control of situations
• Find creative solutions to difficult challenges
• Increase efficiency and productivity
• Adapt to new situations by being able to adjust strategies as needed

Examples of analytical skills

Let’s take a look at some examples of analytical thinking and the different ways you can use these skills. 

Problem solving

Problem solving is the skill of finding solutions to difficult situations. Using analytical and problem solving skills involves:

• identifying the problem, 
• gathering the relevant information, 
• coming up with potential solutions and 
• assessing their suitability before taking action. 

Being able to solve problems is essential skill in the workplace, especially if you’re interested in management roles. Employees with good problem-solving skills help companies run more efficiently. Here are two examples of problem-solving skills in different careers: 

• You’re a mechanic servicing a car with a strange rattle, but the diagnostic tests aren’t showing anything mechanically wrong. A good problem solver will try to think of other causes for the rattle, such as something loose in the glove compartment.
• In some roles, like human resources manager , problem solving might be a core part of the job. In HR, you’d be resolving conflicts, sourcing hard-to-find talent and helping to streamline your company’s policies. 
• Critical thinking

Critical thinking is the process of analysing information, concepts, situations or problems to make judgements. It involves being able to evaluate arguments, claims and evidence in an unbiased way, to come to a solution. 

It’s likely you use critical thinking every day without even knowing it. For example, when you see an article on social media, you’ll use your critical thinking skills to evaluate the credibility of the news source, consider potential biases and verify the information. 

There are certain fields, like law and medicine, where critical thinking is an essential part of the job, in order to provide accurate guidance and diagnoses. But that’s not to say other professions don’t benefit from these skills. Almost every job imaginable requires some level of critical thinking.

• Data analysis

Data analysis is the method of examining and interpreting data. It involves a number of techniques, including:

• collecting relevant data (such as from databases, surveys, etc.), 
• cleaning the data (removing errors), 
• exploring patterns and trends, 
• interpreting what this information means and 
• drawing conclusions from the analysis. 

As a data analyst , you may also need to present the data in an easy-to-understand way, using visual communication tools like graphs or charts. 

The specific methods of collecting data and analysing it will depend on the role. Here are two examples of what these skills may look like in different careers:

• A marketing strategist may use platform data collection tools, like Google Analytics and Meta Business Manager, to monitor performance and make informed choices about campaigns. 
• A business analyst may use Excel, Power BI and other data management tools to track performance and gain customer insights. Data analysis skills are useful to anyone who has measurable data they can use to improve outcomes of their work. 

Research skills

Research skills are techniques used to locate, evaluate and use information to find solutions, answer questions or explore specific topics. Not only are they important for students, academics and professionals, they’re an important skill set in your personal life too. 

There are many different types of research: collecting existing data, case studies, surveys, experiments and more. Here are two examples of careers that use research skills:

• Engineers will use controlled experiments to test the properties and performance of materials and structures, while a marketing specialist may conduct consumer research and surveys to evaluate the potential impact advertising campaigns will have for a business. 
• Journalism is a good example of a career using multiple research methods. Journalists will conduct interviews, surveys and polls, use field reporting to gather first-hand evidence, seek out historical evidence and refer to online resources. 

Decision-making

Decision-making is an important analytical skill as it involves a systematic and rational approach to processing information. There are many steps you can take to improve your decision-making process, including analysing data, assessing risks and using critical thinking to make sound judgements without bias. 

Everyone benefits from better decision-making skills. They come into play in every aspect of work, whether that’s deciding what colour to make a banner ad or narrowing down venue options for the next office party. No matter what your role or industry, you’ll be able to make decisions more effectively and confidently when you improve your analytical skills.

How to improve your analytical skills

Like soft skills , analytical skills are something everyone can work on. They can help you make better decisions, communicate why a decision should be made and even help you progress in your career . Taking courses , being observant, reading books – these are all ways you can develop your analytical, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. 

Resources for improving your analytical skills

From early childhood, our analytical skills are constantly developing. To give them a boost, there are resources you can tap into that target specific analytical skills. These include:

• Online courses to learn data platforms, data analysis and more
• Leadership and communication courses through university and colleges
• Books on analytical thinking or problem solving for your industry
• Online communities and forums to help with specific problems 
• Training in analytics software
• On-the-job training or mentoring
• Podcasts, online research and other digital informational sources

No matter your age, budget or needs, there is always a way to improve your analytical skills.

How to highlight analytical skills on your resumé

Employers are always looking for people with strong analytical skills, especially those with specialised technical skills, like knowledge of data platforms or accounting software. Here are some of the different ways you can add your analytical skills to your resumé to help you stand out. 

Adding analytical skills to the skills section

Analytical skills can be grouped in with the rest of the skills on your resumé. List out all the specific analytical skills you have, naming any relevant software or database platforms. 

Top analytical skills to add to your resumé’s skill section include:

• Specific platforms you have used
• Pattern recognition

Tailor your skills to the job you’re applying for, using the phrases used in the job description, so it’s clear to the hiring manager that you’re a good match for the role.

Incorporating analytical skills in your work experience section

If you have used analytical skills in your past roles, you should add them to the work experience section of your resumé. Use action verbs and add in specific results where possible to demonstrate the impact of your skills. 

Some examples of analytical skills to put in your work experience section include:

• Used Google Analytics to optimise ads and increase conversion by 22% in 12 months
• Deployed employee surveys to improve team retention by 90% YoY under my leadership
• Used Sprinklr dashboard to grow social media engagement by 30% in 90 days
• Used problem-solving skills to achieve a 4.9/5 customer service rating 12 months in a row

By giving specific results of how you used your skills, you demonstrate to hiring managers that you are able to use data to drive performance. 

Showcasing analytical skills in your summary or objective section

You don’t always need to include a summary or objective section on your resumé, but if you have extensive or specialised experience you’d like to highlight, it can be a great way to make yourself stand out. Your summary should only be one or two sentences long, giving the reader an instant overview of who you are, what you’re looking for and what you bring to the table. As with the analytical skills on your resumé, you should customise your objective statement to each role you apply for.

Highlighting your analytical skills in a career objective can give you an edge over other job seekers, particularly if you’re applying for leadership roles. Examples of analytical and problem solving skills selection criteria answers may include:

• Motivated and detail-oriented business and IT graduate with a strong foundation in data analysis, statistics and programming. Seeking entry-level data analyst role to uncover insights and contribute to data-driven decision-making in a dynamic setting. 
• Experienced retail manager of more than 10 years, with a proven track record of developing and implementing data-driven strategies to improve sales by a minimum of 60%. Seeking a challenging role in a forward-thinking organisation where I can leverage my analytical, problem-solving and leadership skills to drive growth and innovation.

When you’re updating your resumé with new skills, it’s important to understand the meaning of analytical skills as they apply to your specific area of work. Keep your resumé up-to-date with these skills, as they’ll differentiate you from the crowd. Even if you’re not looking for a new job and you just want to improve in your current role, enhancing your analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills could be the secret to standing out and getting ahead.

Why are communication skills important in analytical work?

Communication skills are vital in analytical work because they allow for effective data sharing and collaboration. Being able to clearly communicate helps convey findings, insights and recommendations with technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring they can make informed decisions. It also helps foster a productive work environment when working with others on analytical projects.

Why are collaboration skills important in analytical work?

Collaboration skills are crucial in analytical work because they enhance problem solving, foster diverse perspectives and improve data interpretation. Effective teamwork helps uncover insights, promotes data accuracy and streamlines decision-making, driving better analytical outcomes.

Why is creativity important in analytical work?

Creativity is vital in analytical work as it helps you find innovative solutions and identify patterns in data. It empowers analysts to generate fresh insights, develop new approaches and adapt to evolving challenges. It enhances the effectiveness and competitiveness of their analytical efforts.

Why is emotional intelligence important in analytical work?

Using emotional intelligence in analytical work fosters empathy, effective communication and collaboration. Analytical people with high emotional intelligence can navigate interpersonal dynamics more easily, build stronger relationships and more clearly understand stakeholder needs, leading to insightful, actionable results. 

Why is continuous learning important in analytical work?

Continuous learning is essential in analytical work to stay updated with evolving tools, techniques and data trends. It allows analysts to adapt, enhance their skills and provide more accurate and valuable insights. 

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Skills and competencies

Analytical skills: the ability to make sense of data.

Abigail Lewis

2 Aug 2023, 08:27

Graduates who demonstrate their analytical thinking during a job interview or assessment centre will stand out from other candidates.

What are analytical skills?

Here’s a simple definition for analytical skills: they are the ability to work with data – that is, to see patterns, trends and things of note and to draw meaningful conclusions from them. (Note: contrary to popular opinion, data includes information and facts of all types, not just statistics.) This analysis is then used to solve problems, to make business decisions or to provide recommendations to colleagues, clients and bosses.

The competency is essential to business success. It’s not surprising, then, that ‘strong analytical skills’ is frequently listed as an essential requirement on graduate job descriptions, person specifications and job adverts. The good news is that if you have completed a degree you will have honed your analytical skills. All degrees are designed to develop critical thinking, which is, for all intents and purposes, analytical skills by another name.

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Spend a minute with our targetjobs expert to discover:

• what it really means to have analytical skills
• how your analytical abilities might be assessed throughout the recruitment process (applications, interviews and assessment centres)
• how you may have already developed your analytical skills.

Are you analytical in the right way for the job?

Different degree subjects give experience of different types of information. English literature students, for example, read texts critically to form a qualitative argument or analyse the reliability of sources, while engineering students often use the quantitative results from models to further their experiments or research projects.

Different sectors and professions, too, will use information differently. A candidate well versed in qualitative research may be short on examples that will convince recruiters that they are sufficiently numerate to work confidently with lots of quantitative data. However, many of the analytical skills tests interviewers use aren’t based on your previous experiences but on how you perform then and there, and there are ways to develop your analytical skills further (see below).

How are your analytical skills likely to be tested in your graduate job application?

Online aptitude tests , often the second stage of the application process, assess your ability to analyse a situation and make a judgement. Situational judgement tests (SJTs), numerical tests and inductive reasoning tests are the most likely to focus on your analytical skills. Our commercial partner AssessmentDay has a number of free and paid-for practice tests available for graduates.

What interview questions will you be asked about analytical skills?

It’s possible that you may be asked directly about your analytical skills at interview, such as:

• Give an example of a time when you used analytical skills
• What experience do you have analysing data?
• When have you made a decision based on data?

However, for graduate and entry-level jobs, it is much more likely that your analytical skills will be assessed via an assessment centre exercise or a job-related task (see below) rather than via an interview question. This is because it is easier for a recruiter to assess your analytical skills when you are actually demonstrating them, instead of just talking about them.

Having said that, your analytical skills may be being partially assessed if you are asked a competency-based interview question about solving a problem. For example:

• Give me an example of your lateral thinking.
• Give me an example of a time when you ran into an unexpected obstacle on a project. What did you do?
• Give me an example of a difficult problem you had to solve outside of your course. How did you approach it?
• Tell me about a time you worked through a problem as a team.

To demonstrate your analytical skills when answering these sorts of questions, you will need to explain how you completed a realistic assessment of the situation, and explored and evaluated options.

You might also be asked commercial awareness or hypothetical interview questions that call on your analytical skills. These will vary according to the job, but could include:

• What do you think is the biggest challenge facing us in the next 12 months? (You will need to have analysed the company’s performance and business plans, have an idea of its competitors and have a sense of how the economy and wider political events could affect the business.)
• What would you do if there was conflict between team members you were managing? (This is most likely to be asked in interviews for trainee management jobs. You will need to show that you can analyse the motivations and behaviour of the people involved in conflict.)
• How do our products compare to those of our competitors? (This is most likely to be asked in interviews for consumer goods and retail jobs; you need to have analysed the market to answer this well.)
• If you had £100m, where would you invest it? (This is most likely to be asked in interviews for finance and investment jobs. You will need to show that you have analysed the current financial situation and the behaviour of the markets.)

To answer these questions well, you will need to undertake an analysis of the scenario in question.

What analytical skill examples can I give at interviews?

As mentioned above, it is much more likely that you will be asked a question that uses your analytical skills rather than be asked to cite an example of it. In these situations, the best way to demonstrate your analytical skills is to explain your thought processes as you answer the question: show off your logical approach and critical thinking abilities.

Yet, there may be times when you are asked about them directly. Or perhaps you want to support your answer to interview questions such as ‘Why would you be successful in this job?’ , ‘What are your strengths?’ and ‘Tell us about yourself’ by providing examples of your analytical skills. In these cases, here are just a few examples of when you could have developed analytical abilities:

• Completing degree modules requiring statistical analysis or quantitative/qualitative research (eg running surveys)
• Completing degree modules requiring close analysis of source material
• Undertaking an online course on data analysis, business awareness or a similar topic
• Running a social media account (working out which posts received the highest level of engagement and adjusting your content plan accordingly is a great example of putting analytical skills into practice)
• Planning a gap year or travel itinerary (where you might have had to analyse different travel options to find the best one for you)
• Weighing up between two or more options (eg deciding on your university course)
• Undertaking competitor analysis tasks as part of work experience or an internship (eg if asked to evaluate the company's products or services against those of their key competitors).

What exercises could be used to assess analytical skills at an assessment centre or job interview?

At an assessment centre, analytical skills are most likely to be tested via a case study exercise, either in a group or individually. It’s likely that you will be given a dossier of information and you will need to assess the contents and use it to make recommendations to a client.

Your analytical thinking will also be on show if you are asked to give a presentation : the assessors will be interested in what information you choose to include and how you structure it.

Other analytical skills tests will vary according to the role and the employer. For example, it is common for aspiring solicitors to be given what’s known as an ‘article interview’. Candidates are supplied with some written information, such as a newspaper article, and are then asked questions on it in their interview. The analytical skills of would-be engineers, meanwhile, are usually tested by being given a technical problem (such as, in civil engineering, being asked to design an element). A candidate for a software engineer or programmer job might be asked to find errors in a piece of code or to write a product specification for a hypothetical client. An aspiring data analyst, meanwhile, might be asked to evaluate different software tools in advance and be asked to present their findings in an interview.

How is data analysis used in different jobs?

The way in which graduates use their analytical skills – and the types of decisions that they will make or contribute to – will vary considerably according to their profession. For example:

• Solicitors use analytical skills throughout their career, whether to work out how legislation and case law affects a client’s transaction, to judge if something is a relevant piece of evidence, to explain situations to clients, to assess whether contractual obligations have been reneged upon or to research the background of a case.
• Marketing executives most often use analytical skills to assess customer research and the performance of marketing campaigns – that is, to discern what is popular and to forecast future trends, using a range of metrics (such as social media interactions) and data tools (such as Google Analytics).
• Data analysts can find work in a range of sectors, including consulting, retail and marketing, but the role is often technology-focused and requires a computer science or statistics-based degree. As well as analysing and interpreting data, much of the role involves presenting it in an understandable format for non-technical colleagues or clients.
• Insurance underwriters take into account demographic data and financial models to decide whether to accept an application for insurance cover.

Analytical skills versus problem-solving skills: is there a difference?

Analytical skills are closely aligned with problem-solving skills and the two are often conflated in person specifications, but in fact they are separate and distinct sets of competencies. Sound analysis of a situation is an essential stage of problem solving, but you can use analytical thinking for purposes other than solving a problem: for example, by forecasting the likelihood of future events.

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This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the targetjobs content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

Related careers advice

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Managing ambiguity: the essential skill for career progression

Time management, prioritisation and organisation: being ahead of the game

'Give an example of your lateral thinking.' Tricky graduate interview question

'Give an example of a time when you handled a major crisis.' Tricky graduate interview question

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How to develop and demonstrate your problem-solving skills

Analytical and critical thinking skills, why employers want these skills, examples of how analytical or problem solving skills can be developed or evidenced, final thought....

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We all solve problems on a daily basis, in academic situations, at work and in our day-to-day lives.  Some of the problems that are typically faced by students include: 

• Putting together an argument for an essay
• Dealing with an awkward customer when working part-time in a shop or restaurant
• Thinking about how you are going to manage your budget to keep you going until the end of term
• Working out why your printer won’t respond
• Developing a strategy to reach the next level of a computer game.

Any job will also bring problems to be faced. It is important to show to a recruiter that you have the right skills to resolve these problems, and the personal resilience to handle the challenges and pressure they may bring. You need to be able to: 

• Evaluate information or situations
• Break them down into their key components
• Consider various ways of approaching and resolving them
• Decide on the most appropriate of these ways

Solving these problems involves both analytical and creative skills . Which particular skills are needed will vary, depending on the problem and your role in the organisation, but the following skills are key to problem-solving:

• Lateral Thinking
• Logical Reasoning
• Persistence 

Analytical and critical thinking skills help you to evaluate the problem and to make decisions. A l ogical and methodical approach is best in some circumstances: for example, you will need to be able to draw on your academic or subject knowledge to identify solutions of a practical or technical nature.  In other situations, using creativity or l ateral thinking will be necessary to come up with ideas for resolving the problem and find fresh approaches  Not everyone has these two types of skills in equal measure: for this reason, team working is often a key component in problem-solving. Further skills, such as communication, persuasion and negotiation , are important in finding solutions to problems involving people.

Whatever issue you are faced with, some steps are fundamental: 

• I dentify the problem
• D efine the problem
• E xamine the options
• A ct on a plan
• L ook at the consequences

This is the IDEAL model of problem-solving.  The final stage is to put the solution you have decided on into practice and check the results. 

Any workplace, project or task will have challenges or obstacles which need to be overcome. If an organisation employs people who are adept at solving problems at all levels, it reduces the need for complex chains of command or lessens demand on managers' time. In short, it will help save time and therefore money.  Analytical skills are perhaps becoming increasingly important; we are all bombarded with huge amounts of information every day. Being able to quickly yet comprehensively identify and evaluate the most important or relevant information for the organisation or your specific job role will be an increasingly useful skill. 

• Leisure activities (e.g. chess, logic games, computing).
• Overcoming obstacles to achieve an ambition or goal.
• Working in a customer environment and resolving complaints, particularly in situations where there is no protocol.
• Research (e.g. for essays or projects, or within the workplace).
• Particular achievements in the workplace (e.g. devising new working practices to improve efficiency, information systems development, diagnosing and rectifying faults or issues).
• Creative solutions to coursework problems.
• Identifying appropriate source material for assignments. 

A large cosmetics company had a problem in that some of the soap boxes coming off the production lines were empty. The problem was quickly isolated to the assembly line, which transported the packaged boxes of soap to the delivery department: some soap boxes went through the assembly line empty. The management asked its engineers to solve the problem. They spent much time and money in designing a machine with high-resolution monitors manned by staff; to scan all the boxes on the line to make sure they weren't empty.  A workman hearing about this, came up with another solution. He got a powerful industrial fan and pointed it at the assembly line. As each soap box passed the fan, the empty boxes were blown off the line. Moral: the simplest solution is usually the best!

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Conceptual Skills: Definition, Examples, and How to Use Them on Your Resume

You might have read the headline of this article and wondered, “what is a conceptual skill—and do I have them already?” Chances are, you do—it’s just a matter of practicing them and highlighting them in your professional life. Conceptual skills allow you to understand complex situations, see the bigger picture, and develop innovative solutions. They are essential for effective leadership, strategic planning, and successful project management.

You can use these abilities to enhance your problem-solving skills and contribute significantly to your team and company. Keep reading to find out how conceptual skills can take your resume and your career to the next level.

What are conceptual skills ?

Conceptual skills involve the ability to think abstractly, understand complex concepts, and develop strategic plans. These skills help individuals see how various parts of an organization or project fit together and influence each other. Conceptual leadership skills are crucial for managers and leaders who need to navigate complex situations and make informed decisions that benefit the entire organization.

For individuals, having strong conceptual skills means being able to identify potential solutions and opportunities, enhancing problem-solving abilities and improving overall performance. For organizations, employees with well-developed conceptual skills can drive innovation, lead teams effectively, and contribute to long-term success. In management roles, these skills are crucial for strategic planning and decision-making, ensuring the organization remains competitive and adaptable.

Highlight your problem-solving skills and get that resume out there —b rowse open jobs on The Muse and land your next interview»

Technical skills vs. conceptual skills

Whereas conceptual skills involve strategic planning, technical skills are more about specific knowledge and expertise in a particular area. Technical skills are often acquired and improved through education and training. Both types of skills are important, but they serve different purposes.

“With the rise of automation, the need for conceptual skills is likely to shift toward a greater need for data interpretation and strategic insights,” says Stephen Greet, CEO and Co-founder of BeamJobs . “People will be valued more and more for their ability to make sense of large amounts of data, find patterns, and draw conclusions that are useful as machines take over routine tasks.”

8 conceptual skills examples

Now that you know the conceptual skills definition, let's dive into the specific attributes that make them up. Here are 8 examples of conceptual skills:

1. Analytical thinking

Analytical thinking involves examining complex problems, breaking them down into manageable parts, and identifying effective solutions. For instance, in project management, analytical thinking helps in identifying potential risks and creating plans to mitigate them.

2. Strategic planning

Strategic planning is about envisioning the future and creating actionable plans to achieve long-term goals . This skill involves understanding the context in which an organization operates and aligning its resources and efforts to meet its goals. It helps a team or organization remain focused and guides it toward its destination.

3. Critical thinking

Critical thinking is evaluating the relevance and reliability of information, weighing pros and cons, and making well-informed decisions. This skill is essential for managers and leaders who need to navigate complex situations and ensure their decisions are based on sound analysis and evidence.

4. Problem-solving

Problem-solving is about approaching challenges with creativity and finding innovative solutions. This ability is crucial in dynamic environments where new, unforeseen issues frequently emerge. Strong problem-solving skills allow individuals to adapt quickly and find practical solutions to keep projects and teams on track.

5. Communication

Communication skills involve expressing ideas, strategies, and plans clearly and concisely. Effective communication helps everyone on a team understand their roles, responsibilities, and overall direction. It’s also important to motivate team members and create a collaborative environment.

6. Leadership

Leadership skills motivate and guide teams toward achieving shared goals. It involves inspiring confidence, providing direction, and keeping a positive and productive team culture. Good leaders use their conceptual skills to understand the broader vision and share it with their teams.

7. Innovation and creativity

Innovation and creativity are about thinking outside the box and generating new, valuable ideas. These skills are essential for driving progress and staying competitive in any industry. Innovators challenge the status quo and come up with unique solutions that can lead to significant improvements.

8. Adaptability

The ability to adapt to new circumstances is crucial in changing businesses and industries. Adaptable individuals are resilient, open to new ideas, and capable of adjusting their plans to meet evolving challenges and opportunities.

Developing your conceptual skills

Sharpening your conceptual skills requires engaging in regular problem-solving and data analysis exercises to identify patterns and break down complex issues. Staying up-to-date on industry trends and new technologies is crucial for maintaining and enhancing your conceptual skills.

For example, you might participate in hackathons or coding competitions. “They give people from different backgrounds the chance to work together on new projects,” Greet says. “Participants have to quickly grasp difficult issues, come up with creative solutions, and clearly explain their thoughts. People step back from technical details and think about bigger effects and possibilities.”

Additionally, taking on leadership roles and participating in project management opportunities, even in volunteer settings, can improve your conceptual skills. These experiences allow you to practice strategic planning, team building, and decision-making in real-world scenarios, giving you a deeper understanding of how different components of a business or project interact and influence each other.

Work on your communication skills

Refining communication skills is also essential for strong conceptual thinking, especially for people who want to become managers. “Synthesis is the ability to put together different kinds of information to come up with new ideas. When managers use synthesis well, they can find patterns, make connections between ideas that don't seem to go together, and come up with new ways to solve problems,” Greet says.

Consider enrolling in writing courses or public speaking workshops to improve your ability to express complex ideas concisely. Effective communication ensures your strategies and plans are understood and embraced by your team members and stakeholders.

Highlighting conceptual skills on your resume

When it comes to showing your conceptual skills on your resume, it's essential to personalize it to specific job descriptions. Start by using your professional summary to briefly highlight your ability to see the big picture. “For example, you could talk about successful strategic initiatives or new solutions you’ve come up with,” Greet says. “Use words that draw attention to skills like systemic thinking, creative problem-solving, or strategic planning.”

Using compelling action verbs is key to making your resume stand out. Replace generic phrases like “responsible for” with dynamic verbs such as “led, “ “developed,” or “implemented.” Describe specific situations where you used these conceptual skills to achieve success and quantify your achievements. You might say, “Developed a long-term strategic plan that increased market share by 15%” or “Implemented innovative problem-solving techniques that reduced operational costs by 20%.”

This approach ensures your resume gives clear evidence of your ability to contribute to the success of an organization. By focusing on these strategies, you can effectively make yourself a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

What is the importance of conceptual skills ?

Conceptual skills are crucial because they enable managers and leaders to understand and address complex situations, foresee potential challenges, and develop innovative solutions. They help create a clear vision for the organization, aligning teams with strategic goals, and driving long-term success. By using their conceptual skills, managers can make informed decisions, foster a culture of creativity and innovation, and navigate the organization through changing environments, enhancing efficiency and productivity .

Conceptual skills are required at which level of management ?

Conceptual skills are essential at all levels of management, but they become increasingly important as you move up the hierarchy. Top-level managers, such as CEOs and executives, rely heavily on conceptual skills to create long-term strategies, envision the future of the organization, and make decisions that affect the entire company.

Middle managers also use these skills to translate strategic goals into operational plans and ensure that their teams understand and work toward the company's vision. Even at the supervisory level, conceptual skills help in problem-solving.

How can you improve your conceptual skills ?

Improving your conceptual skills involves practical experience. Engage in activities that challenge your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, such as taking on complex projects or participating in strategy development sessions. Reading industry reports, attending workshops, and enrolling in courses related to business strategy, critical thinking, and leadership can also enhance these skills.

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National Professional Officer (Mental Health) - (2405237)

IMPORTANT NOTICE:  Please note that the deadline for receipt of applications indicated above reflects your personal device's system settings. 

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

WHO is the directing and coordinating authority for health within the United Nations system. It is responsible for providing leadership on global health matters, shaping the health research agenda, setting norms and standards, articulating evidence-based policy options, providing technical support to countries and monitoring and assessing health trends. Related to mental health, WHO Sri Lanka office aims to improve quality of life people in Sri Lanka by supporting the government in prevention and control of priority mental health, substance use and neurological disorders, preventing suicides, and promoting mental health, advocating for integrated mental health and social care services in PHC and community-based settings, preparing and responding to mental health and psychosocial issues during health emergencies and promoting the rights of people with psychosocial, intellectual and cognitive disabilities.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Under the direct supervision of Medical Officer (NCD) and the overall guidance of the WHO Representative and in close collaboration and coordination with the Ministry of Health and partners, the incumbent will:

1. Facilitate policy support as needed for enabling planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the essential components of the National Mental Health policy and plan;

2. Support scaling up services for mental, neurological and substance use (MNS) disorders via implementation of WHO Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP);

3. Provide technical tools, SOPs etc. to ensure provision of comprehensive, integrated mental health and social care services in primary care and community-based settings;

4. Support implementation of strategies for mental health promotion and prevention especially in schools and workplaces and promote programs targeted at vulnerable groups, including children, elderly and people affected by conflicts and disasters (e.g. psycho-social interventions after disasters and during emergencies);

5. Provide technical assistance to strengthen information systems and research to improve data on burden of mental and neurological disorders;

6. Provide technical assistance to the country in developing mental health related tools and guidelines including LIVE LIFE: an implementation guide for suicide prevention;

7. Support the country to update the mental health law taking into consideration regional and international human rights instruments;

8. Provide support to improve mental health literacy, address stigma and discrimination and promote the rights, opportunities and care of individuals with mental disorders;

9. Encourage using WHO Quality Rights toolkit to evaluate quality of mental health services;

10. Increase awareness of disability issues, and promote the inclusion of disability as a component in national and sub-national health programmes;

11. Facilitate collection and dissemination of disability-related data and information;

12. Support the country to conduct the WHO/WB Model Disability Survey and/or WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHO DAS 2.0);

13. Represent WHO country office in the UN Disability Inclusion Inter-Agency Coordination mechanism at the country level, and contribute to reporting via the UNCT Accountability Scorecard on Disability Inclusion tool;

14. Support proposal writing and donor reporting for Mental Health, Psycho-Social Support and Disability programs;

15. Perform any other duties as assigned by the supervisor(s).

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Essential : Bachelor degree in Medicine or public health Desirable : Master's degree in public health or medical science

Essential : At least two (2) years of professional work experience in the field of mental health, and/or psychiatry Desirable : Experience of working with the MoH and/or province level; Experience in developing mental health guidelines, training modules and other tools; Experience in conducting of WHO disability assessment Schedule (WHODAS.2)

Essential: Sound understanding of principles of public health, to be able to provide quality technical inputs, and good problem-solving, analytical and negotiation skills

Desirable: Knowledge of WHO programmes and practices an asset

WHO Competencies

• Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
• Communication
• Ensuring the effective use of resources
• Building and promoting partnerships across the organization and beyond

Use of Language Skills

Essential : Expert knowledge of English. Expert knowledge of local language.

REMUNERATION

Remuneration comprises an annual base salary starting at LKR 6,980,640 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable) and 30 days of annual leave.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level.
• Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
• A written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment may be used as a form of screening.
• In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed through the link:  http://www.whed.net/ . Some professional certificates may not appear in the WHED and will require individual review.
• According to article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible.
• Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to WHO Staff Regulations, Staff Rules and Manual.
• The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. The WHO recruits and employs staff regardless of disability status, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, language, race, marital status, religious, cultural, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, or any other personal characteristics.
• The WHO is committed to achieving gender parity and geographical diversity in its staff. Women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of unrepresented and underrepresented Member States ( https://www.who.int/careers/diversity-equity-and-inclusion ) are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Persons with disabilities can request reasonable accommodations to enable participation in the recruitment process. Requests for reasonable accommodation should be sent through an email to  [email protected]
• An impeccable record for integrity and professional ethical standards is essential. WHO prides itself on a workforce that adheres to the highest ethical and professional standards and that is committed to put the  WHO Values Charter  into practice.
• WHO has zero tolerance towards sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), sexual harassment and other types of abusive conduct (i.e., discrimination, abuse of authority and harassment). All members of the WHO workforce have a role to play in promoting a safe and respectful workplace and should report to WHO any actual or suspected cases of SEA, sexual harassment and other types of abusive conduct. To ensure that individuals with a substantiated history of SEA, sexual harassment or other types of abusive conduct are not hired by the Organization, WHO will conduct a background verification of final candidates.
• WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.
• For information on WHO's operations please visit:  http://www.who.int.
• WHO also offers wide range of benefits to staff, including parental leave and attractive flexible work arrangements to help promote a healthy work-life balance and to allow all staff members to express and develop their talents fully.
• The statutory retirement age for staff appointments is 65 years. For external applicants, only those who are expected to complete the term of appointment will normally be considered.
• Please note that WHO's contracts are conditional on members of the workforce confirming that they are vaccinated as required by WHO before undertaking a WHO assignment, except where a medical condition does not allow such vaccination, as certified by the WHO Staff Health and Wellbeing Services (SHW). The successful candidate will be asked to provide relevant evidence related to this condition. A copy of the updated vaccination card must be shared with WHO medical service in the medical clearance process. Please note that certain countries require proof of specific vaccinations for entry or exit. For example, official proof /certification of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter many countries. Country-specific vaccine recommendations can be found on the WHO international travel and Staff Health and Wellbeing website. For vaccination-related queries please directly contact SHW directly at  [email protected] .
• This is a National Professional Officer position. Therefore, only applications from nationals of the country where the duty station is located will be accepted. Applicants who are not nationals of this country will not be considered.
• In case the website does not display properly, please retry by: (i) checking that you have the latest version of the browser installed (Chrome, Edge or Firefox); (ii) clearing your browser history and opening the site in a new browser (not a new tab within the same browser); or (iii) retry accessing the website using Mozilla Firefox browser or using another device. Click this link for detailed guidance on completing job applications:  Instructions for candidates

Link to apply:

• WHO Careers Website:  Careers at WHO
• Vacancies (staff member access):  https://careers.who.int/careersection/in/jobsearch.ftl  
• Vacancies (external candidate access):  https://careers.who.int/careersection/ex/jobsearch.ftl